Free Tip Monday
Having a gig nearly every day last week kept us busy. Thankfully, 95% of those experiences were enjoyable. So what's the other 5%?
A guest musician who isn't fully prepared.
If you're ever hired as a guest musician or artist, here are a few things you can do to ensure a great experience—and increase your chances of getting called back.
1. Learn the Band's Material and Culture
Do your best to learn the music, arrangements, and overall vibe of the group. Watch the band's social media content, listen to recordings, and familiarize yourself with how they perform.
2. Ask Questions Early
If you're unsure about an arrangement, song version, transitions, or expectations, ask questions in advance. Most professional bands provide charts, recordings, set lists, and other resources well before the performance date.
3. Don't Bring Excuses to the Stage
If you've been given materials ahead of time, don't wait until rehearsal, soundcheck, or worse—while you're on stage—to announce that you don't know the material. Preparation is part of the job.
4. Treat the Gig Like You Care
If you don't care about the opportunity, don't take the gig.
At the very least, show up with a professional attitude and a positive outlook. Audiences, fellow musicians, and band leaders can all tell when someone is engaged—and when they're not.
5. Arrive Early
Arriving early is far less stressful than arriving "on time" or late.
Early arrival gives you time to:
- Set up properly
- Troubleshoot equipment issues
- Ask questions
- Relax before downbeat
People remember musicians who arrive early. They also remember musicians who arrive late. One earns trust; the other creates stress—especially for the bandleader.
6. Look Like a Professional
Invest in your wardrobe.
Whether the dress code is casual or formal, look intentional and polished. Never look like you grabbed the first thing you found in the closet.
Professional appearance matters. In fact, some venues take presentation so seriously that they've sent bands home because their appearance didn't match the venue's standards.
Your talent gets you hired. Your professionalism gets you called back.
