Planning is crucial. It’s a key ingredient to any musician’s success. With April well under way, spring is here and so are outdoor shows, festivals and a number of events that need entertainment. Do you have any shows booked? If not, you’re missing out on a multitude of opportunities.

Why spring and summer shows are important:

• Networking: You never know who you’re going to meet. Larger outdoor spring and summer festivals are especially helpful in networking with other bands, and their fans
• Fan Development: If you perform with other acts, you’re likely going to make new fans. Spring and summer festivals are great because people like to hang out longer in the warm weather. They’re more patient if they’re relaxing in a nice environment, therefore more likely to listen to a band they’ve never heard of.
• Existing Fans: Most importantly, your existing fans need to see that you’re active and want to see you!

Booking shows, as you know, takes time and persistence. And you’re not always going to get the best performance day and time. Sometimes, you have to take the 7pm Monday slot as a way to work your way up to the Thursday at 10p slot. The more you play, the more you’ll draw, and eventually you’ll nab the right venue and best day and time.

In order to nab bigger outdoor shows and festivals, you must do your research in advance. Look for the events that happen yearly and will be looking for a fresh opener for the event. Put together a master list of events, and research the appropriate contact at each event. Once you have your contact list put together, you can use this on a yearly basis to reach out for information about booking shows.

When you book a show, here’s what you need to remember:

• Elevator Pitch: It allows your fans to easily and quickly understand what you have to offer
• Mailing List: Use your show as an opportunity to building your mailing list and make new fans
• Merch: Make some money by selling your merchandise to new, eager fans at shows!

Do you have any tips for booking spring and summer shows? How far out do you start planning?

Up next: Planning to try out some new music? Who do you test your sound with?

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