In today's economic climate, generating additional income can be beneficial for musicians. If you're looking for ways to monetize your craft, this article is for you. We've created a series of How to Monetize your Craft for Musicians, with information and resources on how to get started to create four potential revenue streams for artists, including:
Find the average revenue of each source of income and helpful tools for how to get started and become successful. This week, we're mastering how to get hired for a gig. Download the PSS Gig Placements spreadsheet for a list of potential gigs in the Bay Area.
GIGS
A gig is a live performance by a musician or group of musicians at a specific time and venue, usually for an audience. It can be a paid or unpaid performance, and can range from small local shows to large concerts or festivals. The amount a gig pays in the Bay Area can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of event, venue, location, artist's experience, and length of the performance. Generally, gigs in the Bay Area can pay anywhere from $50 to $1000 or more. However, some higher-profile events or performances can pay even more. It's important for musicians to research and negotiate their rates based on the specific circumstances of each gig.
Know your worth and don’t settle for a fee that doesn’t resonate with you.
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when looking for gigs:
SUPPLY IS GREATER THAN DEMAND
When it comes to finding gigs as a musician, it's important to keep in mind that supply is greater than demand. There are always more musicians and bands than there are available gigs, which means promoters, event holders, and venues receive a lot of booking requests that they need to filter through. In order to stand out, you need to make sure you're memorable as an artist when you reach out for bookings. This includes being kind, accommodating, personable, and credible.
Building personal relationships with promoters and venues, or knowing someone who does, can be a huge advantage when it comes to getting booked for gigs. You may want to consider attending industry events, such as music conferences and networking mixers, to make connections with people in the industry. Additionally, having a strong online presence, such as a professional website and social media accounts, can also help you stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of getting booked for gigs.
PLAY EVERY SHOW AS IF IT’S HIGH PAYING
While your first show may not pay much or anything at all, it's important to give it your all and leave a lasting impression. By showing up on time, prepared, and delivering an unforgettable performance, you increase your chances of being noticed by the audience, promoter, or event holder. This can lead to more opportunities in the future, such as being asked to play another show or recommended for other venues. And if someone in the audience likes your sound and had a great time at your show, they may even book you for a private event. Every gig is a chance to showcase your talent and build connections that could lead to paid opportunities down the line.
NETWORK
To increase your chances of landing gigs, it's important to leverage your existing network. Start by getting involved in your local music community, attending events, and networking with other artists. Don't be afraid to ask everyone you know, and even those you don't, if they know of any opportunities for a musician to perform.
Collaborating with musicians who have a similar sound to yours is also a great way to expand your network and gain exposure. Reach out to them and ask to be an opening act in their next live performance, or pitch the idea of a collaboration.
Remember, there's nothing to lose when reaching out to someone for a gig. Even if they decline at the moment, they may keep your information for future opportunities or even refer you to someone else who can help.
LOOK LOCAL
If you're looking for live music gigs, the best place to start is in your own neighborhood. Start by creating a list of local clubs, bars, cafes, fairs, festivals, and other event venues that offer live music performances. Alternatively, you can download the PSS Gigs Placements Spreadsheet for a comprehensive list of venues in the Bay Area.
Once you have your list, start your research on Google and expand your search to Facebook and other social media platforms. Once you find the venues' websites, try to find out if they have a promoter, event manager, booking or programming director. Usually, contact information will be easily accessible, but if not, don't hesitate to call the venue directly.
If the venue doesn't have designated personnel for live events, ask to speak with the manager or owner and pitch your sound. It's always better to introduce yourself in person or over the phone than to send an email. People are more likely to remember a phone call than an email interaction. If they like you, you have a better chance of being hired. So, start your search in your own neighborhood and take the first step towards getting your music heard live!
HOW TO GET STARTED
GigSalad An online marketplace that connects artists and other entertainers with gigs in the United States and Canada. Event planners can browse profiles, read reviews, compare quotes, and even contact artists for more details. You can register as an artist for GigSalad for free. However, there is a 5% transaction fee for every gig that is booked through this platform. You can also pay for a premium account that will boost your profile to appear higher on searches. Check out GigSalad to get started.
The Bash Previously called Gigmaster. This platform is similar to GigSalad, event planners search for what they’re looking for and request a quote from artists for a gig. The only catch is that The Bash does not offer a free tier option. But they are having a midsummer sale, memberships start at $59/year for the Basic plan or $109/year for the Pro plan! Visit The Bash for more details.
Gigmor This is a live events platform where not only artists create profiles but venues and event planners create gig posts. Prospective promoters can browse the Artists page to find available musicians or they can create a post outlining the opportunity for artists to apply to and be considered. Gigmor is free to use, to create a profile, browse and search for gigs but in order to apply for an opportunity you must have a membership. Memberships start at $9.99/month or $99/year. There’s also no harm in finding potential gigs and working outside of the platform to apply in order to avoid paying for a membership. Browse available gigs at Gigmor today!
Pirate.com Check out this website to apply for gigs internationally. Each month, they release new artist opportunities ranging from club shows to festival slots. If you’re looking to travel, sign up to their newsletter to get monthly updates on the newest gigs. Many gigs are first come first serve so make sure you’re one of the first to apply. Find this months gigs at Pirate.com.
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