7 Ways to Get People to Shows (Part 1: Practice)

Ari Herstand’s article “7 Reasons No One’s Coming to Your Shows” spread like wildfire across the musical corners of the Internet yesterday.

Some readers thought Herstand’s article is too negative or too blunt. I don’t feel like it is.

Instead, Ari’s article got me pondering in a positive fashion, and I thought I’d share seven, positive actions for change around each one of his points.

Today, I’ll start with the first one: “You Suck.”

1.  You have an opportunity to improve.

Try:

A. Taking some lessons
If you feel like you are above lessons or vocal training, read this article about “Coaching a Surgeon” from the New Yorker.

We all need coaching at times! All musicians reach plateaus in their playing, and we often need another set of ears to give us a new techniques and exercises to grow.

B. Beating the computer distractions
There are days I spend too much time on my computer that my time practicing.

If you fight this distraction, too, download a widget or app on your computer to turn your Internet off during a set practice/rehearsal time. (Read the book 4 Hour Work Week for more on this idea.)

C. Conquering the beasts
Band practices can get redundant, especially if we spend too much time on the easy parts of songs, and not enough time on the difficult parts.

Spend more time conquering the beasts–often sections, not full songs–during rehearsals. Save the songs you know for the end. Some songs might only need to be played during the set list run-through.

D. Keeping a list
My prolific wife, a full-time writer, would tell you to hang a whiteboard in your rehearsal room.

Keep lists of goals. This list could include parts to songs that need improvement, the week’s setlist to rehearse, whatever. But write it down, and keep it posted so the band is on the same page.

E. Estimating how long it will take
One of the easiest things a teacher can do to improve student homework completion rates is share an estimate of how long it will take to complete.

Same should go for bandleaders. Plan out how long rehearsing parts of songs and set lists will take. Make goals for what needs to get done before band practice.

F. Disabling mobile distractions
If your bandmates are checking Facebook between songs or texting grocery lists to their partners, you have a problem. Distractions extend rehearsals and impair focus.

Bandmates should advise significant others not to call or text during rehearsal times, except for emergencies.  Or plan in breaks where texting can happen. Respect band practice time like work.

G. Practicing less, more often
Is band practice two times a week for four hours not helping the band? Try doing three practices a week for two hours.  If band practices are unproductive, it might be because you are trying to do too much at one time.
* * *

Herstand’s first point ruffled the most feathers, but I think it was the most important reminder.

Getting people to attend shows is difficult, but if the music performance isn’t where it needs to be, nothing else will overcome that obstacle. Plus, practicing is something the band controls with the least expense!

OK, I’ll address number two, tomorrow. I should go rehearse before my gig tonight.