Networking Locally in the Real World « MusicianWages.com Forums

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Networking Locally in the Real World

Posted 2 years ago by rminstrels

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rminstrels said 2 years ago

Do you have suggestions for strategies and tactics when it comes to networking in the local music scene? Below I've pasted a good response to this question given by an administrator over at http://www.knowthemusicbiz.com

Obviously the core truth of networking is Give To Get--but let's get specific, how many ways are there to connect in the real world?

What can you add to what he suggests (below)?

"Support local music in your community - it's a great way to build important relationships. Regularly attending (and actually paying!) at local shows will get you noticed by the bands and venue staff and can provide a good opportunity to meet others in the local music community. When you are one of only a handful of people to attend a local show it will be noticed and much appreciated."

"Help out other bands in the area - Identify a couple of bands in your area you would like to open for (be reasonable, don't pick Pearl Jam) and regularly help them out. They might need someone to help load in / load out, work the merchandise table or hang flyers around town."

Thanks,
Joe

rminstrels.blogspot.com
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David J. Hahn said 2 years ago

*bump*

My apologies, this post was lost in the spam cue -admin

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David J. Hahn said 2 years ago

Hi Joe -

One thing I recommend is to write about the local scene - especially local musicians - on your blog. Favorably, I should add.

Also, maybe try an email interview for your blog with local musicians. Email a local musician you look up to or want to meet and ask if they'd let you interview them for your site. Email 5 questions and post the whole thing on your site with a photo. It's good for your website, good for the interviewed musician, and is a great way for you to network in your scene. We've made a lot of friends here on MW with our interviews.

Generally, I think the more you talk about other people and their projects, the more people will read your blog. Then you can insert your own news now and then and have more people read it. You'll be surprised how well blogging can work in real-world networking. I run into people all the time in NYC that read MW, and I never thought that would happen. I've even hired some of our readers for gigs, and vice versa.

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DC said 2 years ago

I've found going to local jams in my area has been beneficial. I've met and played with other musicians (think of it as a live audition) and made some great contacts and picked up some fill in gigs as a result. The jams are cool because every musician wants to know about how and what you play and will go as far as "geeking" over your instrument. Pass out a lot of business cards!