Bild von Fredrik Solli Wandem auf Pixabay
Live performances are one of the primary sources of earnings for musicians. Without a doubt touring is the main way to get your music heard and build a solid fan base worldwide. If you have just commenced your career and have not previously experienced on-route and afterward challenges, then you are at the right place to learn the tricks to make your first tour work.
Yes, you are eagerly excited to illustrate your performances in front of a massive gathering for the first time, but there are some tips you can use to prepare the best for your first tour.
Have equipment, merch, and more prepared
What if your drumsticks are damaged? What if your power cord stops working? Does your guitar have spare strings? Do you have an extension cord, power strip, or backup cable…? Does your backdrop fit the stage? Do you have enough merchandise for your fans? Do you have something a little extra special for your VIPs? It is recommended to keep ‚EXTRA‘ of everything to save yourself from emergencies. Keep your pieces of equipment all set. Make sure you are prepared like a strong army to conquer the next battleground. Also, order all merchandise and stage production supplies beforehand from a quality printing business like Tour Essentials, and ensure you have extras because running short on merch after a kickass show is just embarrassing for you and disappointing for the fans.
Target venue:
The first thing that comes to a person’s mind while preparing for the first tour as a musician is the venue they will perform at. Mostly, people opt for the venues like New York, Las Vegas, etc. But you do not want to perform in front of a few faces, Right? What if we tell you these hyped locations work for already built-up profiles? As a newbie preparing for your first tour as a musician, you need to target small cities or towns.
With a narrow target market where bands do not usually voyage, you can easily achieve your goals while staying within budget. You do not have to risk your first-ever concert. Do not disappoint and discourage yourself from performing in front of smaller crowds. Remember that you have been given an opportunity to showcase your knack, from where people will start knowing you. You can actually make an impression on the locals.
Stay healthy:
All the tips later, but it is said that health is wealth. Unless you are not healthy, you will not be able to enact efficiently on the stage. After all, the first impression is the last one. Let it be career-building. While people will know you as an enthusiastic musician and master in the art, this chance might be your go-to as your career progresses. Alongside the music necessities for your first tour as a musician, you need some bare essentials. Instead of relying on junk foods on your route, treat yourself to healthy snacks, nuts, fruits, and veggies.
While junk food harms health, more nutritious options can provide sufficient energy to perform. Also, keep a small water cooler to keep you hydrated throughout the route. Let’s not risk the utility store’s availability when you are en route.
Book adequate shelter and safety
You are not driving 12 hours just to perform straight away. Of course, you need to rest before giving a final call. Let the night be memorable. The first rule is to ask other bands for a cheap resting recommendation, or you will have to park your car and sleep in. So, do not forget to carry some pillows and a blanket for yourself since they can be of great help.
Notably, only sleeping without glancing outside is a foolish move one can make. Make sure you are in a safer habitat. Besides, safe driving and avoiding dangerous routes fall in your safety protocols while on your first tour.
Practice set up and tear down:
Before heading on your first tour, you should rehearse setting up and tearing down quickly. Once you are on the stage to perform just like you dreamt, you quickly need to set it up with your musical equipment. As soon you are done, get off it, plugging off your instruments without making a mess since other bands might be waiting to perform. Try not to hold the show for longer, being a diva showing off 15 minutes before and after the concert.
Look for the Right Car
This might seem odd, but you might need your own car for the journey. If you have chosen a destination not far from or within your countryside, a reliable car best fitting your conditions can be the finest option.
In particular, hatchbacks can be an excellent choice for musicians with musical instruments like keyboard, guitar, violin, or others. Aside from the expensive interiors of such cars, you can accommodate your parking needs while navigating towns.
Don’t just care about money:
You, as a musician, can make millions, but it is totally okay if your first tour is only for branding you or your band and you do not make a penny out of it. The first phase is establishing and settling in the market once one starts making bread and butter. There is still a life to come. However, it is not certain that you do not make any coffers from your first tour. After all, you have devoured your life savings on it. Luck can play a role here.
Final Verdict:
Although your performance is going to be memorable, you should be aware of the challenges that can arise en route or afterward, making your pioneer musical performance wishy-washy. It is essential to keep a grip on all the unwelcome surprises and walk the extra mile toward an enchanting performance on your first tour.