MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
RESOURCES
ADVICE FOR THE ESTABLISHED ACT:
Could You Be Your Own Agent?
Beginners and established performers often find that despite using several agencies their bookings still need some padding out! A competent Manager can organise and co-ordinate an acts public performances but there are many singers, bands and musicians who gain the majority of their live work through their own efforts, recommendations and mutual gig swapping between like minded others.
Whether organising bookings for your own act / band or a selection of musician friends you will need to be Organised!
Keep records/database of all contacts, venues, artists (or deputisers)
Create standard letters, i.e., booking forms, contracts, confirmation letters, invoices and receipts.
Create promotional material for yourself/acts and/or agency, e.g., BusinessCards, Posters, Flyers, Press Releases.
Keep receipts and records of all incoming and outgoing finances - Manual & Computerised Book-keeping courses are available at local colleges or a range of finance software packages can be found via local stores and on the internet.
Reliable Telephone, Fax and Answering Machine should, if possible be kept on a separate line.
Most Important - Keep a Desk Diary or Wall Calendar next to the telephone for a quick view of dates booked/available and a 'To Do' Board for notes of 'call backs', payment requests etc.
Create an office area, complete with a filing cabinet or shelving and fax/phone and set aside time to concentrate on bookings and paperwork. A computer, printer, mobile telephone or pager and your own website promoting your act and/or agency services are also handy!
We covered the basics on how and where to look for paid bookings in Getting Your Band Heard - the rest is a matter of building good contacts, providing excellent, reliable entertainment and keeping track of payments and bookings.
As an agent for yourself you are responsible for ensuring that the venue / promoter has suitable P.A. and Lighting Equipment or providing your own, agreeing performance times, negotiating and collecting fees / commissions. If you choose to liase and share / swap gigs with other agents / artists, ensure all contracts and information are clear before sending / signing with copies available to all parties (including one for your reference).
It is unlikely you will be as successful as a dedicated agent, especially when you are also trying to create, rehearse and perform on a regular basis, however,
acting as your own agent gives you some insight into the workings of an agency which will help when seeking agencies to represent you!
