Module 3: Booked to Brilliant
The booking is just the start: prep before you arrive, run the room with professionalism, and close strong so one great gig turns into the next.
Congrats! You got the gig. Now make it unforgettable.
Great shows don’t happen by accident. What you do before, during, and after the set turns a booking into momentum. Yes, live shows should be mad fun—that’s the point. But the pros prep on purpose, so the fun lands for the crowd, the venue, and you.
This module covers the simple habits that signal “book us again”: arriving ready, running a smooth soundcheck, reading the room, keeping to time, handling hiccups with grace, and closing with a plan to come back. You can’t control every glitch; you can control how prepared and professional you are.
What we’ll nail
Before you arrive: setlist with timings, gear checklist, stage plot/inputs, roles & cues, promo post scheduled.
On site: punctual load-in, kind to crew, quick line check, clear hand signals, tight transitions, finish on time.
If things wobble: backup plans (spare cables/strings), short banter, keep energy up, don’t over-apologise.
After the set: thank the team, post a clip, save the set notes, and ask for a future paid date that fits.
Module Content
Practice to Setlist - Dial your rehearsal from casual jams to intentional run-throughs: time your songs, shape transitions, balance energy, and lock band dynamics so your set lands tight... and confidently. [Read the Article..]
The Pro’s Gig Day Playbook - Professionalism sells the next show. Promote ahead of time, arrive early, keep changeovers tight, respect your slot, and close the loop with thanks and a debrief. [Read the Article..]
Fear to First Set - First shows feel huge. Prep simple “what-if” plans, expect a wobble, and keep playing - use crowd cues, backup options, and a quick exposure-gig score to turn fear into your first win. [Read the Article..]
Persona to People - Own a big onstage persona, but be gracious offstage. Confidence sells the show; humility protects your brand, your fans, and your next booking. [Read the Article..]
Practice to Performance: Know the Difference - Practice = build your chops solo. Rehearsal = make the band tight. Keep learning between gigs, then use rehearsal to lock dynamics, transitions, and the set flow. [Read the Article..]
Image to Impact - Brand isn’t just a logo - it’s how people experience you. Be consistent onstage and off, choose the attention you want, and let professional behaviour do the heavy lifting. [Read the Article..]
Booked to Brilliant: draft a gig-day checklist and run a 10-minute “showflow” rehearsal this week.
Want my one-page Gig-Day Checklist to copy? Say the word and I’ll share the template.
This series, the content and any observations or suggestions made are based on my personal experience, anonymised to protect privacy. Nothing here is financial, legal, or medical advice - please seek professional guidance for your own situation.