In this section of my project I am writing about the process and different ways to have a successful live performance.
Before the event:
Promotion:
social media is an amazing way to promote and gain attraction for a live event. Posting engaging content like band rehearsals can grab peoples attention and show people the type of music and who you are as a person. It is important to post about an upcoming event as it can create excitement and provides information. Information like photos of the location, and videos of some band rehearsals can show people what type of music your band plays, the type of people you are and how good the band is.
printing and posting flyers and posters can make the event aware to local people, as well as making your event more prominent and well known.
Funding:
Artists and event organisers don't typically earn much until they have multiple performances, have a decent size following and have gained a good reputation within the music industry.
Artist grants:
These are very competitive and you aren't guaranteed to receive anything.
Crowd funding:
This is a way for independent artists to raise money from donation from fans/ supporters.
sales:
if you haven't realised anything this might not be the best option for you.
merchandise- this can also be used as promotion. This is a good option if you want to interreact with fans.
ticket sales- if you have a strong following and know you will make the money to cover the costs for the event this could be an option. you may need an initial deposit for the venue so you'll need to find that from past events or from somewhere else.
Preparation:
Equipment:
Buying spares of the equipment you already have and make sure all of it works correctly is extremely important. Usually things go wrong, it is important to be prepared if it does happen. Making sure all your equipment is organise is also important as you need your spare instruments, sticks or leads etc to be close by to make switches between equipment easy and not too noticeable.
set lists:
Know exactly what to do when on stage, make sure to practice as much as possible so it can sound the best it can and so everyone is aware of what is going on.
lighting and set design:
Explain and organise what lighting you want for each song and how to want the stage to look. Most people want to feel immersed within the music and both lighting and set design can help with that.
During the event:
Setlists:
openers- the first band or musician helps set the overall tone. It is important to get someone entertaining and refreshing to help warm the crowd up for your performance.
make sure you know all of the setlist and all the transitions in and out of the songs.
Behaviour:
Acting respectful and professional is a massive part of being a successful musician. No one wants to work with difficult people so its important to keep a good reputation. No one wants to support a disrespectful artist.
Equipment:
always have your spares close by and organised- makes everything easier in case something stops working.
recheck that you have all the correct equipment.
try not to stop!! mistakes usually happen, but always try to keep going.
Audience
keeping the audience engaged is also a massive part of having a successful live performance. One example of this is when Queen played at Live Aid in 1985.
Although this may not be seen as the most successful live event in history it is definitely one of the most iconic. Freddy Mercury showed his control over the audience by using call and response, this also helps the audience feel apart of the show and helps create a unforgettable experience for the audience and people watching. The use of him clapping and phrases like "Everyone!" encourage and give a cue to the audience to join in with the music.
Freddy mercury is also seen moving about the stage a lot and overall being theatrical with his hand movements. This can make him seem more interesting and help the crowd become more energetic.
After the event:
Cool down and reflect:
physical cool down- some music can be physically demanding, it is important to relax your voice and/ or body.
Reflection- what went well? what can be improved?
Engage with the audience:
Thank the audience- acknowledge the support.
networking- talk to other performers and build connections.
gather feedback
constructive criticism- trusted peers or mentors for feedback on your performance. This can help you grow as an artist.
Audience Reactions- Pay attention to audience reactions during and after the performance to gauge what resonated with them