How do I get gigs?

Elizabeth Huffaker
Sep 23, 2024
5 min read

Getting gigs as a musician can be challenging at first, but with the right approach, persistence, and networking, you can start landing performance opportunities. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get gigs and build a performance career:

1. Build a Solid Repertoire

Before you start looking for gigs, make sure you have enough material to perform a full set. Whether you're a solo artist or part of a band, you'll need:

Original songs or cover songs: For original artists, at least 30-45 minutes of material is typical for smaller gigs. If you’re a cover artist, make sure you have a wide selection of songs across different genres to appeal to various audiences.
Polished live performances: Practice until you and your band (if you have one) are tight and confident. It’s important to be stage-ready before seeking gigs.

2. Create a Press Kit

A professional Electronic Press Kit (EPK) is essential for securing gigs. Your EPK is like your music résumé and should include:

Bio: A short, compelling description of who you are as a musician or band.
High-quality photos: Both promotional shots and live performance shots if possible.
Music samples: Links to your best recordings (ideally on platforms like SoundCloud or Bandcamp).
Live performance videos: Promoters and venue owners like to see that you can perform well live.
Social media links: Add your Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, or Facebook links to show your fan engagement.
Contact information: Make it easy for people to book you by including an email address and phone number.

You can create an EPK on platforms like Sonicbids, ReverbNation, or on your own website (using Bandzoogle or WordPress).

3. Start Small: Local Open Mics and Jam Sessions

Playing at open mics or jam sessions is one of the easiest ways to get your foot in the door and gain performance experience. These events are great for:

Networking with other musicians: You might meet people who can offer you gigs or recommend you to venue owners.
Building relationships with venues: Many venues book open mic performers for paid gigs if they like what they see.
Improving your stage presence: The more you perform, the better you get at handling different types of audiences and situations.

4. Network with Other Musicians and Industry Professionals

Networking is key to getting gigs. Here’s how to do it effectively:

Collaborate with other musicians: Play as an opening act for a more established band or collaborate on projects. They may recommend you for gigs or invite you to perform with them.
Attend local music events: Go to shows, festivals, or music industry events to meet other musicians, promoters, and venue owners.
Online networking: Use social media to connect with local musicians, promoters, and music fans. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn are great for building professional relationships.

5. Reach Out to Local Venues

Once you’re ready to start booking gigs, research venues in your area that fit your genre and performance style. Here’s how to approach venue owners and bookers:

Email them directly: Send a polite, professional email introducing yourself, including your EPK, links to your music, and live performance videos. Mention how you found the venue and why you think you’d be a good fit.
Follow up: If you don’t hear back, follow up after a week or two. Persistence is key, but don’t be pushy.
Visit the venue in person: Sometimes it’s more effective to visit the venue and introduce yourself to the manager or booking agent.

6. Use Gig Booking Platforms

Several online platforms help musicians find and book gigs:

Sonicbids: This platform allows you to apply for gigs, festivals, and other events. Many venues and festivals list their opportunities here, and you can submit your EPK directly to them.
GigSalad: This is a marketplace where bands and solo musicians can offer their services for private events like weddings, parties, and corporate gigs.
ReverbNation: Like Sonicbids, ReverbNation allows you to search for gig opportunities and submit your music directly to venue bookers.
Bandsintown: This is more of a concert promotion tool, but having a profile here helps you show bookers and fans that you’re active and performing.

7. Leverage Social Media

Build a strong online presence: Engage with fans and followers regularly, post content like performance clips, and show behind-the-scenes looks at your rehearsals or songwriting process.
Announce gigs: Use your social media channels to announce upcoming shows. Tag venues, promoters, and other musicians involved in the event to expand your reach.
Live streams: Platforms like Instagram Live, Facebook Live, and Twitch allow you to stream your performances. This is a great way to connect with your audience and show potential bookers your performance skills.

8. Play for Free (Strategically)

While it’s important to get paid for your work, playing for free occasionally can help you get your name out there. Here are a few situations where free gigs might be worth it:

Charity events or festivals: These gigs can expose you to a large audience and generate goodwill.
Exposure opportunities: If a venue is known for having influential promoters or big crowds, playing for free once or twice might be a good way to make connections.

9. Tap into Private Events and Corporate Gigs

Private gigs, such as weddings, corporate events, and private parties, can be lucrative for musicians. These events typically pay better than bar or club gigs, and they help build your reputation as a reliable performer. Here’s how to find these opportunities:

Gig platforms: Use platforms like GigSalad or The Bash to find private gig opportunities.
Reach out to event planners: Contact local event planners or wedding coordinators and offer your services as a performer for their events.
Use word of mouth: Ask friends, family, and clients to recommend you for private events. Positive reviews and referrals can help you get booked for future gigs.

10. Be Professional and Reliable

Once you land a gig, it’s important to be professional and reliable. This builds your reputation and increases the likelihood of repeat bookings:

Communicate clearly: Confirm all the gig details—such as time, location, payment, and set length—beforehand.
Show up on time: Arrive early to set up and make a good impression on the venue staff and organizers.
Bring your own gear: Unless otherwise agreed upon, bring everything you need to perform, including instruments, cables, and amplifiers.
Promote the gig: Share the gig details on your social media and invite friends, family, and fans. The more people you bring to the venue, the more likely you’ll be invited back.

Conclusion

Getting gigs takes time, persistence, and networking, but by using a combination of online tools, personal connections, and live performance opportunities, you can start building your presence in the music world. Stay consistent, keep improving your craft, and always approach every gig with professionalism, whether it's a small open mic or a larger event. With dedication, you'll gradually build momentum and land bigger, more rewarding gigs over time.