This lesson will examine a beginner's guide to preparing for and playing your first gig. These tips will ensure that your time shining in the spotlight will make you look like a star!
Tip #1: Prepare, prepare, prepare.
This cannot be said enough. There is a lot to playing a show and a lot of elements go into it as a guitar player. Your guitar, amp, cables, pedals, etc. So look over all your tools for creating your guitar wizard magic and make sure they all work as they should.
Tip #2: Committed to the cause
Make sure that everyone in the band, and I do mean everyone, is dedicated to the cause. There is nothing like doing the work of setting up a gig and then one of the people in your band (usually the singer) gets cold feet at the last minute.
It's one thing to play the songs at rehearsal, but on stage in front of people is a different story. The last thing you want is someone telling you they can't do the gig at the last minute, so make sure everyone in the band is firmly committed to the cause.
Tip #3: practice, practice, practice
This should go without saying but it will be said anyway. Regardless of how much time you think is necessary, put in a little more if possible. You want to practice on your own at home (if possible) as well as extra with the band. Know that setlist!
If you normally practice once a week, work on practicing two to three times before the show if at all possible. That way everyone is focused 100% and your band is operating like a well-oiled machine. This will help to correct minor mistakes that might be made during a song when performing your set.
Tip #4: Arrive to the show early
You never know when unexpected things will pop up at the last minute: a traffic jam on the way to the show, you forget something and have to go back to get it, etc. It is always best to give yourself plenty of time to anticipate these things.
Arrive early at the show so that you have time to unload your equipment, get it by the stage, make sure you have everything you need, and relax for a minute to get your thoughts together. You don't realize it at first, but there is a lot on your mind when you get ready to do a gig.
Tip #5: Have fun
When you are on stage, you want to have fun—even if you make a mistake or two, which you no doubt will because it will sound different than your ears are used to. The stage sound is always different from the rehearsal room sound. It takes your ears a bit to adjust.
If you are having an issue with something, relax, take a breath, and see if you can get it fixed. People are usually a lot more forgiving than you think. Especially when it is your first gig. Also, things aren't always as bad out to the audience as they seem to you on stage. Notice I said not always. So relax, have fun, and do your best.
Lesson conclusion
When it comes to playing gigs and performing on stage, be sure to follow these 5 very important tips. I have played many gigs on stage and know that these things will come up. So if you know about them ahead of time, it will make your time on stage a lot more enjoyable, and you will want it again real soon.
So stay focused on the task at hand, practice as you should, and you will enjoy your time on stage performing your favorite songs to those who enjoy listening.
Additional help
If you need any additional help with your guitar playing I am here to help. With over 20 years of teaching experience. Both online and in-person. I specialize in crafting customized lessons that cater to your musical journey. Even if you have no formal training.
With your interest and availability, I can tailor your lessons to suit your pace and schedule. Whether you want to dive into the basics or explore different musical styles, I can guide you every step of the way. To get your first lesson scheduled, contact me today and we can set up a Free Consultation. I look forward to helping you embark on this new and exciting adventure.
Thanks for your time reading and good luck with your first gig.
Sincerely, Dwayne Jenkins
