If
your band members communicate really well with one
another, then you could possibly split up the booking
chores, getting together frequently to update each
other. But in general, it works out best if one
person is in charge of booking. Pick someone in your
group that's very organized, social, responsible, and
deals well with spending a lot of time on the phone!
When you call the promoter, introduce yourself and
your band, and tell them what your band is up to and
that you'd like to play x place on x date. More than
likely, he/she will ask if you have any music to
send. Of course, you will, because you'll have your
stuff ready to mail.
Follow up on the package with a phone call. Make sure
they received the package and ask whether they've had
a chance to listen to it. If they liked it, hopefully
they'll book you. If not, thank them for their time.
If you're stuck for leads in that market, ask them if
they could point you to other resources.
People in this business keep strange schedules. It's
a good idea to ask people what hours they're
available so you can organize your calls to make the
most of your time. Be accessible to people,
promoters, clubs. Be sure to always return phone
calls in a timely manner, preferably within 24 hours.
You may need to call people every other day, and some
people every day to get a response. Booking shows
requires persistence, but be careful not to bug
people to insanity. If you're not getting a response
from somebody, move on to another resource.
Don't put all your eggs in one basket by only calling
one person, and waiting for him/her to return your
call. Call at least two other people about setting up
a show.
Learn as much as you can from the people you talk to.
Ask them about their scene, good local bands, etc.
Listen and get information!
Be open to possibilities. There are lots of places to
play besides traditional clubs. You can line up great
shows at places like warehouses, parties, houses,
garages, backyards, universities, record stores,
parks, collectives, etc., etc., etc.
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