
We were thrilled to have Non-Being perform their first official gig at the Saughton Park Live Music event on the 26th of August. Based on this, we've compiled this blog post with helpful tips for anyone preparing for their debut gig. We hope you find it valuable.
1. Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearse your songs extensively. Know your parts inside out to confidently play even if nervousness kicks in.
2. Choose the Right Setlist: Pick songs that showcase your strengths and suit the event's vibe. Consider starting and ending with solid and attention-grabbing songs.
3. Stage Presence: Work on your stage presence. Engage with the audience, make eye contact, and exude confidence. Remember that your body language and energy can significantly impact the crowd's perception.
4. Interact with the Audience: Communicate with the audience between songs. Share brief anecdotes, express gratitude, and create a connection. This helps break the ice and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
5. Prepare for Technical Glitches: Equipment malfunctions can happen. Be prepared to troubleshoot or continue playing without letting it derail your performance.
6. Time Management: Be mindful of your allotted performance time. Don't go overboard or rush through your set. Practice keeping a steady pace during rehearsals.
7. Soundcheck: Arrive early for a soundcheck to ensure that your instruments and microphones are adequately set up. This is crucial for achieving good sound quality during the performance.
8. Know the Venue: Familiarise yourself with the performance space. This includes understanding the layout, where to set up your gear, and any specific rules or regulations.
9. Stay Professional: Treat everyone involved with respect, from the venue staff to fellow musicians. A good attitude can open doors for future opportunities.
10. Stay Calm: Nervousness is natural, especially for your first live performance. Take deep breaths, remind yourself you've practised for this, and focus on enjoying the moment.
11. Feedback and Improvement: After the performance, seek constructive feedback from experienced musicians, peers, or even the audience. Use this feedback to improve your skills and your live show.
12. Networking: Take the opportunity to connect with other musicians, fans, and industry professionals. Networking can lead to valuable connections and opportunities for future gigs.
13. Promotion: Promote your performance through social media and your network. This can help bring in friends, family, and fans to support you.
14. Have a Backup Plan: Prepare for unexpected situations, like broken strings or forgotten lyrics. Having a backup plan can help you handle such moments smoothly.
15. Enjoy the Experience: Remember that performing live is a unique and exhilarating experience. Embrace the adrenaline and have fun on stage – your enjoyment will likely translate to the audience.
The first live performance can be a stepping stone to a rewarding musical journey. Learning from each experience will help you grow as a musician and performer.
These are a few existing musical training opportunities that can help with that extra confidence:
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