Recording & Performing

This is Part Three (Performance & Recording) in a seven-part series that addresses the essential pieces a classical guitarist needs in place in order to build the business side of a music career. 

The following items in the area of performance and recording are a must for a developing or emerging classical guitarist in building a music career.

✅ Organized a shared house concert(or similar non-threatening, non-educational venue)

Learning how to plan and prepare for a concert (e.g., budgets, venues, marketing) in a somewhat friendly environment is an excellent way to wade slowly into the realm of performance. Even if you are not planning to be a concert guitarist, knowing the process helps you, for example, prepare emerging guitarists for a concert.

In addition, you also gain an understanding of how to develop a concert program as well as learn how to deal with the energy of a live performance in a friendly, less formal atmosphere. It is one thing to play in the solitude of a practice room but it is another to perform in front of others. Learning how to create a great live show and experience for your audience is something you can only really learn by doing it.

✅ Know how to engage an audience

Equally important is the opportunity to create a genuine and tangible connection with your fans/followers/community. For starters, it helps you develop social skills as you interact with fans.

You also learn to share stories behind the compositions performed or the reasons why you like to perform them. This helps you increase interest and heightens the listener experience. Avid fans and followers become your brand ambassadors so it is important to learn how to follow-up with your fans after the concert. During these conversations, you can learn what your audience appreciates about your music as well as begin to understand what your audience expects (helps you make informed decisions about your art).

✅ 3-4 Professional quality recorded tracks

Although this would be obvious to those perusing a performing career, it is also important for those of you who are developing non-performing careers. For example, if you are an educator, one of the most important roles you can play in a student’s musical life is that of an inspirator. Seeing you perform or listening to recording or watching a video is one way that you can inspire others to mine their own talents.

For those who love performing, having 3-4 recorded tracks is critical as it allows industry professionals to hear your music. It also allows your fans to sample your music as well as give you the opportunity to highlight what is unique and intriguing about your music. And let’s face it, having a few tracks up on your website builds prestige.

Finally, you can utilize a track as a free gift for those fans who sign up to your email list.

✅ 3-4 Professional quality HD videos

Allows industry professionals and fans to watch a “live” performance. It also provides media and promotors something to share with their audiences.

In addition to videos boosting your visibility and exposure, a video can change the perception and therefore how your music is received. Videos allow you to provide a visual interpretation of your music to life. In other words, it gives you an opportunity to tell your story in a unique way.

✅ Presenting one formal concert every 3-6 months

Presenting a formal concern grants you the opportunity to invite those outside your circle to experience your music in person. It also enhances your professionalism and provides some further credibility in the early stages of your career.