Lesson 20 / 24 · 30 min each week · preparation time
Keep the music moving through real connections
A release can continue through performances, conversations and useful follow-up. Build relationships by participating in the scene around your music. A small number of thoughtful connections is manageable and gives you a reason to keep learning.
Terms in this lesson
Master / recording
A specific sound recording of a song or other audio work.
Work through it
- 1Choose one local event, community or professional workshop to attend. Learn who runs it and how you can contribute without asking for a favour immediately.
- 2Prepare a short live-booking pack if performance fits your project: representative video, lineup, set length, location, technical needs and availability.
- 3Before accepting work, confirm fee, expenses, payment timing, cancellation and recording permissions in writing. Use a suitable agreement and seek advice where terms are unclear.
- 4Choose one follow-up piece for the release, such as a performance or an explanation listeners requested. If no booking or coverage arrives, continue the useful work you can control.
- 5Before booking travel or accepting a show, calculate the fee you keep after commission, players, rehearsal, transport, accommodation and equipment. Check payment timing and the venue’s technical and insurance requirements. A headline fee can leave little after costs.
You are ready to move on when…
You can leave an application or outside reply pending. Record the next step before moving on.
Event or community / contribution / booking-pack gaps / terms to clarify / follow-up piece / next contact
Resources for this task
- Musicians’ Union: standard agreements Templates and guidance · some member access
- Help Musicians: Business Skills Free workshops · dates and availability vary
- Bandcamp: Artist Guide Platform guide · free to read · selling fees apply
Further reading · Passman chapter references
Optional reading · Passman, 11th edition. Chapter 23: live appearances, budgets and agreements.
Optional reading from the 11th edition (2023). No purchase needed. US legal context: use current UK sources for local procedures.
Deeper explanation · Before a bigger commitment
A show or a short run of dates
Make a per-show budget with fees you can rely on, commission, musicians, rehearsals, transport, accommodation and equipment. Add a reserve and record when money must be paid. Confirm cancellation, payment, technical and recording terms. Check relevant insurance and travel requirements. Only commit to the costs once the plan is workable.
Keep practising. Log relevant gigs and report setlists through the route prepared in Stage 2.
Next: Know where the money is.
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