Module 5 of 6: Planning a Live Event

Summary

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at gigs and club nights? Who is involved apart from the performers themselves? Here is where you can find out. There are a wide number of ‘behind the scenes' roles involved, from the marketing manager to the stage manager, to the composers of the pieces being performed; all of these roles are equally as important as the performer or performers who may be the ‘face' of the show. No professional gig or concert can take place without a great deal of considered planning and hard work prior to the performance itself.  Throughout this module you will explore the challenges of planning and evaluating a live performance project. It is up to you whether you choose to experience this through a role as performer or project manager.

Content

Creative Planning

Students explore creative ideas, form bands

Discuss theme for gig/showcase other local bands/colleges

Planning a set list

Elect Student representative

Finance

Commercial considerations, consequences of losing money

Identify venue, costs and booking, capacity

Security costs and booking, booking additional acts, DJ

Transportation costs and booking, equipment hire, PA backline

Roles in the Music Industry

Learn about the different roles within the music industry that are linked to the organisation and delivery of a public music performance/event.

Live Performance Roles

Performance roles examined: artist, musical director

Session musician, composers

Songwriter, arranger

Technical Roles

Technical roles examined: live sound engineers

Lighting engineers

Monitor engineers, back line

Technicians, road crew

Administrative  and Support Roles

Venue manager and staff, artist management

Merchandising, Promotion and Retail

Undertaking responsibilities: preparation of materials

Flyers, posters, press-release

Tickets, backstage passes

Ensuring tickets are sold

Rehearsing Performance

Acceptable performance standards

Tuning/before performance

Timing issues, tightness

Technical competence