How to Play at Local and National Music Festivals: A Guide Using Transmit Festival as an Example
Music festivals offer some of the best opportunities for up-and-coming musicians to showcase their talents, connect with new fans, and even advance their careers. Whether it’s a local festival or a national one, these events provide incredible exposure and the chance to perform alongside some of the biggest names in the music industry. But how do you go about playing at festivals like the upcoming Transmit Festival, and what steps should you take to increase your chances of getting booked?
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of getting your music onto the stage at local and national music festivals, using Transmit Festival as an example. We’ll also discuss how singing lessons in Glasgow can help you perfect your craft and increase your chances of performing at major music events.
Why Play at Music Festivals?
Music festivals are an essential part of any artist’s journey. They allow you to:
Gain exposure to a wider audience.
Network with other artists, music industry professionals, and potential collaborators.
Build your fanbase by connecting with festival-goers who may not have heard your music before.
Showcase your live performance skills, which is essential for building your career as a musician.
Earn money and recognition, especially if you’re playing at a major event.
Playing at both local and national music festivals can lead to significant career opportunities, as many artists have used these platforms to launch successful careers. Festivals provide a springboard for exposure, helping you reach fans that could propel you to the next level.
The Transmit Festival Example: A Great Opportunity for Emerging Artists
Transmit Festival is one of Scotland's biggest music festivals, attracting thousands of attendees each year. Held in Glasgow, it is known for its diverse lineup, showcasing a mix of genres including indie, rock, pop, electronic, and more. For any musician looking to break into the national music scene, playing at Transmit is a major milestone.
Transmit Festival is known for booking both major headliners and up-and-coming talent, giving emerging artists an opportunity to perform on the same stage as big names. Playing at a festival like Transmit can boost your visibility and set the stage for more gigs and opportunities in the future.
So, how can you get your foot in the door at festivals like Transmit? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Build Your Music and Performance Portfolio
Before you even think about applying to perform at a music festival, it’s crucial to have a solid music portfolio. Festivals are looking for acts that can captivate an audience, whether through strong songwriting, energetic performances, or unique sounds.
Record your music: Ensure that your music is professionally recorded, mixed, and mastered. A good recording is essential to make a lasting impression on festival organizers.
Create a live performance demo: Since festivals focus on live performances, you should have a demo that showcases how you perform live. This could be a recording of a live gig or a well-filmed video of you performing in a studio or at a smaller venue. A strong live performance demo is key to impressing festival organizers.
Professional press kit: Prepare a press kit that includes a short bio, high-quality photos, music samples, a list of your achievements, and links to your social media profiles. This helps festival organizers easily learn about you and your music.
If you need help improving your vocal performance and technique, singing lessons in Glasgow can be a great way to build confidence and hone your craft. Working with a coach can also help you learn performance techniques that will make you stand out at festivals. At Southside Performance Studio, we offer individual singing lessons designed to improve your vocal ability, stage presence, and performance skills. Book your lesson now to develop your voice and get one step closer to performing at major events like Transmit.
Step 2: Research Festival Submission Guidelines and Deadlines
Most music festivals have a clear submission process. For Transmit and other major festivals, the process often involves submitting an application form along with the necessary materials (your music, bio, press kit, and performance video). Each festival will have its own deadlines and submission process, so it's crucial to keep track of these dates.
For example, festivals like Transmit often accept submissions several months before the event, sometimes up to a year in advance. Make sure to read the submission guidelines carefully, as they may ask for specific formats or details, such as:
Music genre and style of performance.
Press clippings or media features (if applicable).
Social media following or previous live performance experience.
Video links to your live performances.
Pay attention to the type of music the festival usually books. Transmit, for example, often features indie rock, alternative, and electronic acts, so make sure your music fits the festival’s overall vibe. Even if you’re an indie pop artist, you may have a better chance of getting noticed if your sound aligns with the festival’s typical lineup.
Step 3: Apply for Performance Slots
Once you’ve gathered all your materials, it’s time to submit your application. Many festivals offer open submissions, while others may require you to be invited by a booking agent or a festival promoter. Look for submission windows on the festival website or keep an eye on social media for any announcements regarding applications.
For festivals like Transmit, there are often additional opportunities through competitions or collaborations. For example, some festivals partner with local venues or talent agencies to feature emerging artists. Participating in these competitions or events can increase your chances of securing a spot at the main festival.
Step 4: Network with Industry Professionals
Networking is an essential part of getting noticed in the music industry. Music festivals are often a place where artists, agents, managers, and festival bookers meet and scout talent. Make sure you are active in your local music scene, attend gigs, collaborate with other artists, and build relationships with those who can help you get your foot in the door at major festivals.
Networking with other musicians is also a great way to share performance tips, gain insights into the festival application process, and possibly even collaborate on new projects that could increase your visibility.
Step 5: Promote Your Music and Build Your Fanbase
Festivals are more likely to book acts with a solid fanbase, so it’s essential to work on building your presence online and in your local community. Be active on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, and engage with your followers regularly. Share your music, behind-the-scenes content, and announcements to keep your fans excited and invested in your journey.
Additionally, having a growing fanbase can increase your chances of being noticed by festival bookers. They want to know that you can draw a crowd and bring excitement to the stage. Make sure you’re actively promoting your music, whether through local gigs, social media, or streaming platforms like Spotify.
Step 6: Prepare for Your Performance
Once you’ve secured a performance slot at a festival, the hard work begins. Rehearse your set thoroughly, making sure that you’re confident with every song. Take the time to perfect your stage presence, engage with your audience, and bring the energy needed to make an impact.
Singing lessons in Glasgow can help you polish your vocal performance and ensure you’re in top shape for your festival debut. Whether you need help with breath control, vocal range, or projection, professional lessons can prepare you to give your best performance every time you step on stage.
Conclusion
Playing at local and national music festivals like Transmit Festival is a huge opportunity for emerging artists to gain exposure, connect with fans, and elevate their careers. By building your music portfolio, understanding the festival submission process, and networking with industry professionals, you can increase your chances of getting booked to perform at major festivals.
At Southside Performance Studio, we’re dedicated to helping aspiring singers develop their vocal skills and performance abilities. Whether you’re gearing up for a festival performance or simply want to improve your voice, singing lessons in Glasgow can provide the guidance and techniques you need to succeed. Book your individual singing class now and get one step closer to making your festival dreams a reality!