You don’t have to read Diary of a Wimpy Kid to know that forming a band with your friends can be fun. You have the potential to create something that lasts far beyond high school and into the future. That’s why you should work together to find local gigs where you can showcase your talent. Here are a few tips for your first performance as a band.
Practice, Practice, Practice
You only get one first performance, so make it count. You and your friends will likely have practiced your songs dozens of times over, but you always have room to improve. A live performance will feel very different than playing at home. The audience, stage, and lights will all add to the energy, so you’ll need a solid foundation to rely on in the heat of the moment. Practice your parts over and over again until you can conquer your set in your sleep.
Organize and Pack Beforehand
The last thing you want to do is show up to your gig without a few essential items, like a connector cable or guitar pick. You must organize your gear and pack it up in advance to have everything in order well before the show. The best way to organize is by creating a checklist with your bandmates and working through that list. If you notice anything missing or lost, you can go to the store quickly before the show and find a new piece.
Remember You’re Running a Business
While your first love is making music with your friends, bands are like businesses. You need to invest in your equipment and production value to create a better sound that garners more listeners. Over time, you may even develop a large enough following to start branding items. At your first performance as a band, consider selling band merchandise like t-shirts and stickers. Fun collectibles like these will help build recognition and awareness long after your performance ends.
Knowing these tips for your first performance as a band can make your debut a total hit. When you prepare the logistics, you can focus all your energy on the playing itself. Set yourself up for success and hit the stage running.