Concert halls are getting filled up, aux cables are unwound, and you’ve taken out your hard case to get ready for your first gig show of the year. If you’ve forgotten how to prepare for gigs, we’re here to remind you.
Listen to the songs you will be on repeat. Pay attention to the main melody line and hum to it. After you’ve memorized the dynamics, build up and quiet down, and general melody of the song. Pay attention to your parts; note down which parts you are having trouble with and practice those parts more until you perfect it.
If you haven’t already worked out — decide who will be leading each of the songs in terms of the direction. If there is more than one guitarist, figure out who will do the rhythm parts versus who will be doing melody and ad-libs. Make sure that when you come together, everyone knows what they will be doing for each of the songs before coming together.
Band rehearsals shouldn’t be about learning the songs or playing the songs correctly.
It’s probably been a while since you’ve played a show. If you haven’t performed any maintenance on your instrument since the start of the pandemic, now is the time to do so. Whether it’s restringing your guitar, getting a new pair of heads for your drum kit or something else, make sure your gear is in perfect condition to hit the stage. The last thing you want is to start your set with a broken instrument.
Besides perfecting the sound of the band as whole, your band rehearsal should also focus on your stage performance. Rehearse some lines that you are delivering to your audience. Pay attention to your body language and eye contact. If you are standing or sitting, where will you be facing? If you are moving around, where will you be walking towards and which band member will you be interacting with while playing.
Jitters can start showing up the day before or on the day of the gig. Make sure that you have a checklist of gear you need to bring. Pack it up in one case or one bag. Extra strings? Your Soundbrenner Core, Laptop and charger for your keys DAW system? Create a schedule and agree on the timing with everyone.
Make sure that you have ample amount of time before soundcheck just to calm your nerves and prep with the team.
When all things fail. Just have fun, you’ve done your best to prepare and nothing will come out of worrying too much.
Soundbrenner is a company dedicated to help musicians stay focused on what truly matters: their music. By creating innovative devices, such as Soundbrenner Pulse and Core, our goal is to deliver the best possible practice experience for musicians. Click here to find out more.
Got a question about Soundbrenner wearables? Reach out to us at [email protected], we’re happy to help!
