After 30 years of making a living contracting bands and assorted acts, I can make a few observations and suggestions here.
If you are a sideman most of the time or take a considerable amount of work from a few contractors, when you occasionally get wind of a band/ensemble need or event opportunity, consider referring the gig inquiry back to one of the folks that calls you regularly for work during the year. It will be greatly appreciated. This is a wonderful "thank you" and show of appreciation for the line of income contractors are developing for you.
If you want to book a job and are usually a sideman consider these things. Folks that are inexperienced in pricing and contracting can damage rates that have taken years to grow. Do everything you can to find out what the suggested fair rate is for the event or service.
A contractor spends a considerable amount of time and money on promoting and securing new work. This is hopefully compensated for by adding a percentage to the cost of a service over and above the cost of the players. So if you play a quintet gig for one hundred dollars, don't take for granted a quintet should charge $500. You will learn quickly the extra time and effort involved should have a price. putting together music, dealing with the buyer, dealing with the players, and most of all - the responsibility of making sure everything goes off without a hitch... wait a minute - if you really want to be in this game your product should exceed all expectations, all these things really add up to a lot of work over and above someone that will just show up and play. If you charge to low you can damage the contractor that is giving you good work during the year.
One reason I love booking things is I can pick the players I trust and want to work with. I also love getting a call as a sideman - I get to show up and just be a great player - no worries!
Don't be afraid to hire/call someone that books you - If I had call from everyone I've put to work, I'd be working every night!
Don't be afraid to ask a pro to work for low pay - they've seen it all. A good month can be made by doing many small jobs.
By hiring the best players your task will be much easier!
By producing an excellent product you are enhancing the music profession, developing the live music industry, and creating a future for all musicians.
This week for me:
Thursday - Morning brass quintet gig(sideman), afternoon upright bass jazz gig (sideman)
Friday - jazz gig with my trio - upright bass/leader
Saturday - big holiday party with my 9 piece pop band - electric bass/leader
Sunday-Tuesday - Wife & I will have a few days off/getaway at the family house in Ft Walton Beach-general maintenance tools/ husband!
I am blessed to have good work and great players at my side.
TJ
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booking gigs
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Tim Jackson
- bugler
- Posts: 163
- Joined: Thu Mar 17, 2005 10:34 pm
- Location: Pensacola Florida
- Contact:
-
Tim Jackson
- bugler
- Posts: 163
- Joined: Thu Mar 17, 2005 10:34 pm
- Location: Pensacola Florida
- Contact:
Re: booking gigs
Yes, dealing with musicians is challenging... even if you are one.
...and my original quote:
"Everything I know about being successful in the entertainment business was learned teaching K-5 music for twelve years!
also "never expect adults to act their age!"
lots of musicians are big hams & clowns... until you get them on stage and ask them to "show out" a little!
One thing is for certain, nothing like being in a band with 8-9 great players that work together all the time! It is worth the headaches!
...and my original quote:
"Everything I know about being successful in the entertainment business was learned teaching K-5 music for twelve years!
also "never expect adults to act their age!"
lots of musicians are big hams & clowns... until you get them on stage and ask them to "show out" a little!
One thing is for certain, nothing like being in a band with 8-9 great players that work together all the time! It is worth the headaches!