5 important things to consider before booking your next gig

Any gig is a good gig, right? Not really, and here are five important factors to weigh before you book your next live show.

By Frankie Barclay of Sugar Studios from the Flypaper blog

Choosing the ideal music venue can be tricky. You need the right acoustics, size, location, and more to really get things right. Whether you’re an aspiring artist planning a gig or a devoted music lover seeking the ultimate sonic escape, finding the perfect venue is crucial. 

So to help with your touring band’s event venue needs, we here at Sugar Studios would love to share our five most essential tips to help you select a music venue that caters to all your sound needs.

Here’s what you need to consider and why. Are you ready? Let’s go! 

1. Focus on Acoustic Excellence

First things first, sound quality is paramount. When scouting for a music venue, prioritize spaces that offer excellent acoustic properties. Look for venues with quality sound systems, well-engineered acoustics, and professional sound technicians. 

After all, you want your music to resonate and captivate the audience without any distortions or technical glitches. 

Before finalizing your choice, do some research, read reviews, and, if possible, attend other events at the venue to get a feel for its sonic prowess.

2. Location, Location, Location!

The saying “location is everything” might feel overplayed by cheesy business metaphors, but it actually holds true when it comes to choosing the perfect live music venue too. 

Consider accessibility for both performers and attendees. 

• Is the venue easily reachable by public transport? 
• Is there ample parking available? 
• Moreover, evaluate the neighbourhood ambience — is it safe and welcoming? 

Think about the overall experience your audience will have when they arrive at the venue and choose a location that amplifies the excitement and adds to the magic of the event.

3. Catering That Hits the Right Notes

As any music enthusiast knows, a great gig isn’t complete without satisfying your taste buds. When considering a venue, think beyond the music and pay attention to their catering services. 

• Does the venue offer a wide range of food and beverage options? 
• Can they accommodate dietary restrictions or specific culinary preferences? 

A venue with a diverse and delicious menu will ensure your concert experience is a feast for all the senses.

4. Versatility for Musical Visions

Every musician and genre has different requirements and visions when it comes to staging their performances. Look for a venue that offers versatility and adaptability in terms of stage setup, lighting options, and overall ambience. 

Some venues come equipped with cutting-edge technology, adjustable stage configurations, and customizable lighting systems that can transform the space to perfectly align with your artistic vision. Flexibility is key to creating an unforgettable experience for both artists and audiences alike.

5. Size Matters (the “Intimacy” Factor)

Last but not least, consider the size of the venue. The right venue size plays a crucial role in fostering a connection between the artist and the audience. Smaller venues create an intimate atmosphere, allowing for an up-close and personal experience that can leave a lasting impression. 

Conversely, larger venues provide space for grand performances and larger crowds. 

Determining the ideal size depends on the nature of the event and the type of interaction you want to establish with your audience. Choose wisely, and your music will resonate on a deeper level.

Why Is Finding the Perfect Event Venue Important, Anyway?

You may be wondering if it’s necessary to go through the trouble of finding an ideal venue for your touring act, but the perfect venue is necessary for several reasons, as it sets the stage (literally!) for an unforgettable music experience. 

Here are a few key reasons, connected to our tips, why finding the right venue is crucial:

Sound Quality

A venue with excellent acoustics and professional sound systems ensures that the music is heard in all its glory. The perfect venue will have the right balance of sound projection, clarity, and resonance, allowing the music to be fully appreciated by the audience.

Immersive Experience

The venue creates an immersive atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. The right ambience, lighting, and stage setup can elevate the performance, making it more engaging, visually captivating, and emotionally resonant. 

Audience Comfort

A well-designed venue considers the comfort and convenience of the audience. Factors such as seating arrangements, sufficient legroom, ventilation, and easy access to amenities like restrooms and refreshments contribute to a positive experience for the attendees. A comfortable audience is more likely to stay engaged, enjoy the music, and leave with a positive impression.

Catering to Artistic Vision

Each artist has a unique artistic vision for their performance. The perfect venue should provide the necessary flexibility and adaptability to bring that vision to life. Whether it’s a small intimate setting or a grand stage, the venue should be able to accommodate the specific requirements and preferences of the artist, allowing them to create a performance that aligns with their creative vision.

Location and Accessibility

The venue’s location plays a vital role in attracting a diverse audience. An easily accessible venue, with good transportation links and ample parking options, ensures that people can attend the event without much hassle. Additionally, the overall ambience and safety of the neighbourhood can contribute to the overall experience, making attendees feel more comfortable and excited about the event.

In Conclusion

Each of the elements we’ve discussed contributes to creating an engaging experience that will leave a lasting impression on both performers and music enthusiasts alike. It’s the combination of sound quality, ambience, artistic compatibility, and audience comfort that makes the perfect venue an essential ingredient in creating a truly remarkable music event. 

So go forth, seek out the perfect venue for your next tour, and have an incredible musical experience!