I heard about another conference coming up soon. So I went to check out the details. The price for the showcase threw me for a loop. For 15 minutes they charged $300. It sounds like a good idea on the surface, but let’s look a little deeper, shall we?
First have a look at the audience: Will there be people there from the community? Did the organizers advertise to just the music community? Will the people in the audience be there just awaiting their turn on stage?
If the organizers would pay for an artist to do a concert, why not pay you or at least let you perform for free so you can get the exposure?
Consider the total cost including travel and lodging. Is it worth it to travel half-way around the country to perform for other artists and then turn around and go back home?
If you decide to purchase a spot on a showcase, make it worth your while. Always bring merchandise to sell, cards to exchange or a way to collect emails, and book gigs in the area for that same weekend.
The people who distribute music and give you a platform are making money, but most artists are not. Seek out organizations that are also helping artists to make money for their content.
Do you have any good advice for artists about showcases? Tell us your advice in the comments!