The Ultimate Guide to Playing Paid Music Gigs for Corporate Events and Weddings

A Brief Intro

Are you a musician who has wondered how to make money, or a full-time living, playing music for corporate events and weddings?

There is a large and lucrative market to provide background music for these events.  And while it can be difficult to find the information needed to get started, we have compiled just about everything you need to know in this handbook.

My reasons for wr  iting about this topic are two fold.  The first is that I have been playing these events for over a decade and now have developed such a specialized chunk of knowledge that it seems a shame to take my learnings to the grave with me.  The second is that I think that every time another human on earth gets to make a living doing the thing that they love to do that the world is a better place. So if I may help contribute by giving some small piece of advise that allows a musician to

This is not a path intended for you to get discovered by a record label or to become a star.  It IS however a wonderful way to make lots of side money or a full-time living doing what you love.

In the following chapters we will discuss;

  • What Corporate Events are and how much money you can make playing them.
  • What the basic equipment set up is for solo acoustic guitar gigs.
  • A review of Guitar Loopers and why we use them.
  • Correct Attire and Demeanor
  • Appropriate Song Lists
  • Pedal Board Configuration
  • Contracts and Insurance
  • The BIGGEST SECRET IN THE BUSINESS!
  • Guitar Pedals Review
  • Tips on selecting a microphone
  • A review of some of the most popular PA systems

Before we get into the chapters I wanted to highlight what I consider to be the 3 most important things to keep in mind when working in the world of corporate events. I call these the 3 C’s.  And while nothing guarantees you success, following these 3 principles will make your gigs go significantly smoother, they will you’re your clients love you and think of you as a professional and this in turn will help you get more gigs!

Communication

Communication is King.  I know we are talking about playing music here, but I believe that in life, as a human being on this earth who is trying to interact with other human beings, there is nothing more important than Communication.  This starts with your first discussion with a perspective client, it is instrumental in your follow up emails and phone calls, it is a must when you put your contract together, it is a necessity in speaking about the set-up of the event, and just as important in your post event  follow-up.

Considerate

Contentment