As we know, live performances are a great way to promote yourself, your band and your music. But once you have a show lined up, the work has only just begun. You now have to spread the word near and far in order to sell tickets, fill seats and eventually wow the crowd.

Here are some ways to promote your show using traditional and social media tools:

• First, tell existing fans on your mailing list about the show. Send them an email update with information and ask them to spread the word to their networks. If you don’t have a mailing list, now’s the time to consider making one. Many mailing list providers now include a quick and easy option to share your email blast via social media. Use this resource!

• Create a Facebook event for your performance and invite your entire network of friends. Ask your friends to invite their friends. You’ll be surprised by how quickly your invite list can grow.

• Share your Facebook event on Twitter and Myspace.

• Remember to Tweet regularly and remind fans about your show. Consider doing a ticket or CD giveaway via Twitter to attract new fans and build interest.

• Consider creating an online news release for your show. Remember to use keywords and to include the who, what, where, when and why.

• Consider creating a traditional news release to send to media outlets in the region of your show to alert them of the event. You can ask for show preview coverage or a show review. Get to know your local writers.

Do you have any tips you’ve learned as an independent artist that help you promote your event? Share any thoughts in the comments section below!

Next week: After the show, don’t loose touch with fans! We’ll discuss ways to stay in contact with your biggest supporters after your big night.

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