If you’re at the beginning of your music career, you might be wondering, “What is the proper etiquette at gigs?” and “What can I do to increase my chances of being invited back?” Read on for valuable advice that every professional musician should know.
There are no “bad gigs”
The most important thing to remember is that there is no such thing as a “bad gig.” I can't tell you how many times I've underestimated a gig, thinking it wasn’t a big deal, only to have it open up doors to amazing opportunities later on. So, treat every rehearsal and gig like it's an audition—you never know what exciting chances might come your way!
Always show up prepared
Expanding on the idea that there are no “bad gigs”, it's important to always show up prepared for every opportunity. This means being familiar with your music and ensuring you bring everything you need, such as a pencil, a music stand (if requested), or any necessary paperwork. Treat each gig equally, regardless of how important or unimportant you may feel it is.
Be on time
A common misconception about being on time is that it simply means arriving at the listed start time. In reality, you should be ready and in your seat well before that time, with your instrument unpacked and warmed up. And don’t forget to factor in any unexpected traffic! Depending on the gig, arriving an hour early can be quite normal. It’s always a good idea to ask someone ahead of time about what’s typically expected.
Are you someone others want to work with?
One of the key things that can really impact whether someone invites you back for another job is how likable you are. It’s interesting to see how often people lose out on opportunities simply because they might not come across as enjoyable to work with, even if they have great skills. So, just be yourself! People can usually tell when someone is being overly friendly just to land more work. It’s always better to let your genuine personality shine through.
Be mindful of your attire
Did you know that what you wear can really make a difference in how others see you? Dressing for the occasion is key—it's all about finding that sweet spot between too formal and too casual. Take a little time to pick out your outfit, and make sure everything is neat and tidy, with no wrinkles or holes. When you put effort into your appearance, it shows that you care, and that can really help create a great first impression.
Save the selfies for your off-time
It’s great to capture memories, but taking photos or videos during a rehearsal or session might come off as a bit unprofessional, especially if you’re new. Just take a moment to read the room and see what others are doing. If you’d like to snap some pictures, it’s best to do so during a break or once you’ve finished work for the day.
Double-check your phone
Make sure your phone is fully on silent! Don't forget to check your alarms and Government Alerts—like AMBER Alerts, Emergency Alerts, Public Safety Alerts, and Test Alerts—since they might still go off even if your phone is silenced. You can find these settings under "Notifications" on iPhones. For an extra layer of caution, I like to switch my phone to airplane mode during important events. It helps to ensure there are no distractions!
Pay attention
When it comes to phones, it's important to stay engaged during your gig and avoid having your head buried in your phone. Of course, there are times when it’s perfectly fine to check it, but let’s make sure we’re all paying attention when it counts. It just makes for a better experience all around.
Be flexible
If the conductor, music director, or anyone running the gig asks you to try something—like playing a bit shorter or a little louder—go ahead and give it a shot! It’s all part of the creative process, so don’t worry about explaining why it might not work on your instrument. Just have fun and be open to experimenting.
Catch up on the break
Even if you’re sitting next to your best friend, save the chatting for a break or after the gig. During a gig, conversations should be limited to musical topics (e.g., “Hey, what is the articulation for this phrase?”).
Who should be asking the questions?
If you are not the principal player and you have a question, please direct it to the principal first. Most of the time, they will have the answer for you! Typically, the principal is responsible for communicating with the conductor, which helps avoid multiple people asking questions and wasting valuable time.
If you are the principal and you have a question, ask yourself whether it needs to be addressed immediately. If it can wait until a break, that would be preferable.
Stick to your music
I've seen this happen too often — someone plays another person's music to show off or intimidate someone else. While that might not be your intention, it's best to stick to your own music during warm-ups or breaks. Additionally, be mindful of your volume when warming up. Of course, do what you need to do to warm up, but remember to respect those around you.
Food and drinks
Just a friendly reminder to check the rules about bringing your own food and drinks into the space. Usually, you can bring water in a bottle, but some places might have specific guidelines about snacks and beverages. It’s a good idea to look up their policies before packing anything to take with you.
In Summary
While this list may seem long, I promise it’s not meant to overwhelm you! It’s just here for you to browse through and keep in the back of your mind as you start this exciting career journey. Just remember to stay aware of what’s happening around you—that’ll help you find your way. Enjoy the adventure ahead!
