|
gj Michelob -> RE: Charging for gigs (Aug. 11 2010 16:54:23)
|
quote:
I would agree with the others here, akatune..
‘hate to add negativity but, if you want some advice, the card and the vase need to be replaced by more proper and attractive means:
Someone is hiring your services for a fee. You must show respect for the employer through a professional performance; however, “presentation” is equally significant, as it defines who you are in the eyes of the beholder.
One should not confuse the discretion and whims available to a concert musician, with the much narrower scope available to a “gig artist” who is merely engaged to entertain in a private setting, such as restaurant, lounge or event. If you are a service provider certain rules and expectations will apply.
A business card introduces you but it also serves the purpose of developing further and additional work.
My point of view, in increasing order of importance:
1. Ideally a business card should be printed on thick paper with raised lettering, delivering a more refined texture than the “100 cards for $3”.
2. Any image, design, color, logo or other insignia you wish to add on the card should be carefully selected, as it conveys a message and perception about you. The childish caricature of the guitar is a mundane commonplace showing a rushed conclusion or failure of any creativity. If you need to use an image, choose something that clearly and elegantly speaks of your music and the “gifts” it will deliver.
3. You need to spell out your entire and legal name, it needs to show that you are a serious, responsible and accountable professional: “accountability” really is the critical word here.
4. A nick name evoking “error, mistake, blunder” predicts a faulty, unreliable hire. It brings to mind horror movies titles such as the “uninvited”. You ought to change that, and in any event, as an addition not a replacement of your name.
5. Mobile Phone number and email are a must;
6. Listing a Website is also expected, with sound samples, repertory, ensemble options.
7. The Japanese vase should be replaced (unless you play a far-eastern flamenco slant) by a more theme-coherent object, as in Spanish stuff… a matador’s hat perhaps (silly example, but squarely on point).
A “gig” is a service you render to your employer, not the time and place to impress adoring fans with the capricious rock-star-like behavior.
|
|
|
|
