Promotional Kit

• A promotional kit lets a booking agent see a record of your work and listen to your music. The promo kit includes a page-long cover letter, a professional biography, a few photos from past shows and any news clippings. A musician looking for a first-time gig can highlight aspects of his musical education and early successes in lieu of news clippings. A recording of your music, either on CD or in a digital file, is the most important part of the promo kit. A high-quality recording will get the most attention and may convince a booking agent to book your first gig.
  
  

Contacting Booking Agents

• Directness and confidence go far when contacting a booking agent. Keep emails and phone conversations short and to the point. Introduce yourself and ask the booking agent if he has time to talk before continuing. Ask him if he is willing to take a look at your promo kit and where to send it. Many agents prefer electronic promo kits (EPKs) with music files rather than hard copies of your promo material, because EPKs arrive sooner and are more environmentally friendly.
  
  

Planning a Gig

• Booking agents have busy schedules, and the easier a musician is to work with, the more appreciative an agent will be. Be polite but firm about dates and equipment. Booking more gigs depends on the quality of your music, and you never know who may be listening. Be specific about the elements you need to sound your best.
  
  

Contracts

• Read the entire contract before signing anything. This will prevent any misunderstanding over contractual agreements. Review it promptly so you and your band can concentrate on rehearsing for the big night. Larger venues have more complicated contracts. If you have any questions about a contract, ask an entertainment lawyer to review the document with you. An outside eye will help clarify complicated legal jargon.
  
  

Attitude

• A dedicated and assertive attitude will carry you through the hustle and bustle of the music industry. Reading up on current news in the industry and educating yourself about the business will increase your confidence in bookings.