Have you ever considered what goes into live performance? Have you ever done something to show your appreciation for that performer? It seems simple, but it may be more complicated than you think.
Playing live music for people is a true pleasure. But in some cases, like ours, it is also a business. We are in the business of helping people have a good time. When a musician plays a song you know and enjoy, how does it make you feel? Do you tap your feet, sway in your chair, or get up and dance? Do you hum along to yourself, sing the lyrics in your head, or belt the chorus out loud? Ever get chills, goosebumps, or tear up to an emotional or nostalgic song? No matter how you physically express it, if you are connecting personally to the music, we are doing our job.
We sometimes hear people lament wishing they could play an instrument or be a musician. They don’t realize two things — First, anyone can play an instrument if they put in enough time and energy. Seriously! Go and learn that instrument you’ve always dreamed of playing! You CAN do it! Second, playing an instrument and being a musician can be considered two different things. If someone considers themselves a professional musician, they should be in the business of helping people have a good time. That usually goes beyond JUST playing an instrument.
The initial investment alone is enough to prevent some people from making the switch from “player” to “pro”. Besides the instrument you play itself, you also need the gear (and accessories) to literally help your music be heard. Then you move beyond the bare bones of a speaker, microphone, stands and a few cables. Things to make you sound and look better start adding up. And as many musicians can attest, it doesn’t simply end there. You are constantly changing your mind on sound and style. New technology, new tastes, new needs, wear and tear all cause you to swap and add gear continuously. But in the business, it’s worth it! Think about the last time you truly enjoyed a live musician. You may not have recognized any of their gadgets or equipment, but it was all chosen with giving YOU a better show in mind.
So that’s it, right? You can play. You buy some gear. Now you are a musician. Maybe.
If you are lucky enough to know someone who can hire you for some gigs to get you started, great! But to truly build your business, you need to maintain all of the “admin” work. This includes everything from setting up and maintaining websites and social media accounts, to booking and promotion via phone and email. Filling out tax forms and keeping track of miles and expenses will become vital.
Maintaining your (and sometimes bandmates) calendars will be like playing Tetris in iCal. Your routine will not be as easily explained as “I work 9-5 Monday through Friday.” You must plan to show up early to set up and you will take time to tear down at the end of the night. You will miss out on some holidays and special events. You will play (or load in/out) in freezing temperatures and heat advisors. You will get caught in the rain — and not like it OR Pina Coladas.
Oh, and don’t forget, you still have to go home and practice that instrument and learn/write new songs so you stay relevant. After all, no one is having a good time listening to (or playing) the same songs over and over again.
Phew! Are you exhausted? I’m exhausted.
But this isn’t about how stressful it can be as a musician. It is simply explaining the complexity of the business of helping people have a good time. All in all, it is an extremely rewarding job and we consider ourselves lucky to do it! We love this business because we genuinely enjoy seeing you have a good time!
That being said, we understand we have no business if there is no one to help have a good time. Recently, fewer venues have the space or budget to hire musicians for such work. That is why we continue to expand our offering of online content. Those of our fans who cannot physically attend a live performance, can watch live on FaceBook. Those who want to learn about the tools we are using can watch Vic talk about his gear on YouTube. Soon, we will be adding new live interviews with other musicians on IGTV! Plus there are a string of new songs and ideas in the pipeline! It is our goal to help you have a good time wherever you are.
Now you have a little better understanding of what can go into a live performance. Hopefully, you have a greater appreciation for what it really takes and will consider showing a performer that appreciation next time. We are always humbled by the kind words and generosity of fans as they approach our tip jar. If you would like to find out how you can show appreciation for what we do, you can visit our virtual tip jar at the bottom of our webpage page for more information.
Thank you for allowing us to help you have a good time!