Preparing for a gig requires more than just practicing your instrument. It involves mental, physical, and logistical readiness to ensure you can deliver a great performance, no matter the circumstances. Here are essential steps to help you get ready for your next gig:
1. Memorize Your Material
Relying on sheet music can lead to unexpected challenges. The wind could blow the music away, or a passerby might accidentally knock over your stand. If you use an iPad, you may forget to charge it fully or forget your power cord. Memorizing your set ensures you can perform confidently without external aids. When practicing, play all the way through every song so you learn how to recover from mistakes—live performances don’t offer do-overs. If you stumble, keep playing as if nothing happened. Rehearse transitions and challenging spots thoroughly so you can handle any hiccup smoothly and gracefully.
2. Practice in the Right Setting
Rehearse as you’ll perform. If it’s a coffee shop gig where you’ll be seated, practice sitting down. For band gigs, practice standing and moving around. If your band incorporates synchronized moves, include those in your rehearsal time. Replicating the performance conditions will help you feel more confident and at ease on stage, making your transitions smoother and your presence more engaging.
3. Rehearse at Gig Volume
Play at the same volume you’ll use at the gig. If you’re unsure, attend similar live performances and ask other musicians about their setups during breaks. Many musicians are happy to discuss their setups and give you advice.
For self-run sound, ensure the mix is clear and balanced during rehearsals so it feels the same at the gig. Make sure everyone can hear themselves and each other clearly. If someone is playing too loud or soft, rehearsal is where you want to address it.
If sound and lighting aren’t under your control, prepare for the worst—practice with your guitar too loud, too quiet, or in dim lighting. Rehearse in conditions that might replicate unpredictable factors, such as distracting noises or lighting changes. By doing this, you’ll be ready to handle surprises without breaking your concentration flow.
4. Identify the Onstage Leader
Identify the onstage leader for your band. This person cues who starts each song, decides the order of solos, signals endings, and makes any changes to the setlist. Having one individual in charge of these critical elements ensures the performance flows smoothly and avoids confusion. The leader’s role is essential in maintaining professionalism and coordination. Disagreements or alternative suggestions can be addressed after the show or at the next rehearsal, but during the performance, everyone should defer to the leader decisions.
5. Make Eye Contact
Effective communication during a performance is vital. Get into the habit of making eye contact with your bandmates. This allows you to stay in sync during transitions, solos, or any unexpected moments on stage. Eye contact helps the group adjust dynamically and ensures everyone stays on the same page throughout the performance. Whether it’s signaling the end of a solo, confirming the next section, or tightening up the groove, visual cues are essential for a cohesive performance.
6. Warm Up Beforehand
Warm up before your performance. You can choose to play scales, arpeggios, intro, Endings, or other challenging sections of your set. This ensures you’re physically ready by stretching out and warming up your fingers. This preparation helps you feel confident and prevents stiffness, enabling you to deliver your best performance from the very first note.
If you’re short on time to warm up, avoid starting your set with the hardest songs. Give yourself a couple of songs to ease into it and get ready for your more difficult pieces.
7. Be Prepared for Equipment Issues
Prepare for the unexpected by bringing extras of everything—picks, strings, cables, straps, and even a spare guitar if possible. Have backup mics, batteries, and power supplies for your pedals. When something goes wrong, check for simple solutions first: Are all your cables plugged in securely? Is your amp on standby? Did you misconnect a cable? Avoid panicking and troubleshoot systematically. Being well-prepared minimizes stress and keeps the show on track, even when unexpected issues arise.
8. Rehearse in Stage Attire
If your performance involves dressing up, rehearse in your outfit beforehand. This ensures it doesn’t interfere with your playing or become uncomfortable during the gig. If you’re putting on a show, practice in front of mirrors to refine your stage presence and movements. Observing yourself allows you to polish your appearance and performance. Taking these extra steps ensures that your stage persona matches your musical delivery.
9. Soundcheck When Possible
Whenever you can, do a soundcheck. This allows you to set up your gear and ensure everything sounds as you want it to. Use this time to balance the mix, adjust your monitor levels, and verify that all equipment is working properly. A thorough soundcheck reduces the likelihood of technical issues and helps you feel confident when the show begins. This preparation allows you to focus on your performance rather than worrying about your setup.
10. Remember the Audience Is There to Enjoy
Your audience is there to have a good time, so focus on delivering your best and enjoying yourself. Mistakes happen, but most of the crowd won’t notice. If someone compliments your performance, accept it graciously. Don’t go on a rant about all the minor mishaps—just say thanks; I’m glad you enjoyed the show. What matters most is the experience you create for your audience.
By implementing these strategies, you can reduce stress, enhance your performance quality, and ensure everyone has great time.
About The Author
Brian Fish is a professional guitarist who has been dedicated to helping other guitar players in Northeast Ohio pursue their musical dreams since 1994. He’s passionate about guiding others on their musical journey! He is the Guitar Playing Transformation Specialist, instructor, mentor, trainer, and coach at Guitar Lessons Geauga.
Brian has also assisted people from around the globe in developing a solid sense of timing and enhancing their creativity through the fantastic rhythm course, “Ultimate Rhythm Mastery,” available at MusicTheoryForGuitar.com.
If you live in Geauga County / North East Ohio, Guitar Lessons Geauga can help you become the player you’ve always wanted to be.
