What can indie artists learn from a classical conductor?
LA Philharmonic’s Gustavo Dudamel embodies principles and practices that will benefit music-makers of any style and genre. Read the post.
live performance
Re-arranging big songs for solo performance
Whether you’re dancing on piano keys or dreaming on acoustic guitar, reimagining your favorite songs for solo performance with just you, your voice, and a single instrument can be as fun as it is challenging. Read the post.
Work To Create A Killer Live Show
To create a show that packs the house, you have to do more than just play your recorded music live. You have an entire stage to create a spectacle that draws people in and makes an emotional connection. Read the post.
The importance of merch for today’s working musician
Being blind hasn’t stopped Joey Stuckey from living a life of intention, joy, and music-making. He also helps design and sell his merch, which is a big part of his revenue stream as an indie artist. Read the post.
Conquer your phone phobia and book better gigs
Building relationships, knowing what a booking agent is looking for, and being prepared when you call can help you master booking your act. Read the post.
Choose the right key for your songs
There are a lot of factors that play into choosing the right arrangement for a song — but choosing the right key for you and the musicians might be the most important. Read the post.
Channeling emotions: how to play it when you’re not feeling it
Just as actors channel emotions and use what they are feeling to enhance and inform their acting choices, you can do the same to enhance your musical performances on stage and in the studio. Read the post.
Make the most of rehearsal time
There are lots of recipes for successful band rehearsals and these tips might help you refocus and prepare to rehearse with purpose. Read the post.
Finding the right digital piano
Need the feel and sound of a great acoustic piano for your live shows? Here are some digital pianos that might fit the bill Read the post.
Acoustic piano on stage and in the studio
While an acoustic piano may be the preference for a studio or live gig, it’s not always the most practical choice. Here are tuning tips and suggestions for alternatives when it comes to providing piano for your next gig. Read the post.
Dress the part: Choosing the right outfit for the gig
When you take the stage, the music comes first — but wearing the right outfit can play a small (or not so small) part in helping you give a performance your music deserves. Read the post.
Are cassette USBs your next merch table hit? Indie Music Minute
Thinking about making cassettes? Why not cassette USBs? You can release something really deluxe with music, video, photos, journals from the road… whatever you want.
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Tips for growing your mailing list at the gig
These tips can minimize headaches and maximize success when it comes to connecting with your audience and growing your mailing list at your shows. Read the post.
Playing at Carnegie Hall … with five days’ notice
When I had the opportunity to be playing at Carnegie Hall with the great Wouter Kellerman, I had to say yes. With the gig five days away, thoughtful, strategic practicing helped get the music where it needed to be in a short amount of time. Read the post.
Mirror, mirror: How watching yourself perform can elevate your music
Watching yourself in a mirror while you perform or practice can help you elevate your music and performance, so find opportunities to gaze while you play and learn from what you see. Read the post.