Booking Your First Gig | SoundCollective Online

About Course

Booking Your First Gig is a concise, practical course that teaches emerging artists, DJs, and bands how to secure, communicate, and promote their first live show. Led by musician and bandleader Peter Matson, the course covers how to identify the right venues, pitch yourself professionally, follow proper etiquette, promote your event effectively, and build momentum toward future gigs – or even your first tour.

What You’ll Learn

Understanding The Scene

Identify your genre, audience, and where you fit in the local music ecosystem.

Gig Expectations & Prep

Know what to bring, how to show up, and how to make a strong impression.

Researching the Right Venues

Evaluate venue size, vibe, access, and technical needs to find the best match.

DIY Promotion & Audience Building

Social media, flyers, collaborations, and strategies to boost turnout.

Crafting a Professional Pitch

Learn what bookers want and how to present your music clearly and confidently.

Working With Other Artists

Build relationships, coordinate promotion, and maximize shared audiences.

Communicating with Bookers

Email etiquette, follow-ups, confirmations, and handling changes professionally.

Expanding to Multiple Shows

How to leverage one gig into more bookings and plan early steps toward a tour.

How to assess where your music fits and find the right venue based on genre, style, and access
Best practices for communicating with venues and bookers, including what to say and how to say it
Essential etiquette for gig coordination, confirmations, and maintaining professional relationships
Strategies for promoting your first gig and maximizing turnout through smart self-promotion
How to build momentum by turning one gig into multiple dates or a short tour
Real-world advice from an artist who's performed and booked in clubs, festivals, and beyond