How to choose a live music venue, taught by a former manager. I want to perform at a live house!

Last updated:2018/5/25

basemoku
A denizen of the 2D world who can’t live without anime, manga, and games. But in reality, he’s a hardcore music industry professional with an unusual background—former live house manager! He’s also active as a bassist in the genre of alternative metal. Could the words coming from someone like him ever be useless for anyone pursuing music? No—no way!

I want to perform at a live music venue!

I'm anxious because there are so many things I don't understand...

Until a few years ago, I worked as the manager of a live music venue in the Kansai region, where I was involved in booking artists.

I’ve been fortunate to have many opportunities to interact with numerous artists, event organizers, and audiences on a daily basis.

Make use of the experience gained thereTeach me! Live House AcademyWe are holding a workshop for band members titled "".

What kind of place is a live house?

This time, I’d like to slowly unravel a question that anyone who’s just started a band is bound to be curious about.

What is a live music venue?

What kind of place is a live music venue?

About the image of live music venues... People often imagine lots of tough, scary folks, but in reality, most of them are actually very open and friendly.

This time I mentioned a bit—haha—that the reason I act tough is as a precaution for when scary guests come on.

I hope everyone will find the courage to say, “I want to perform at a live house!” and make that dream come true.

How can I get to perform at a live house?

To perform at a live music venue... you can call, email, or show up in person.

“I’d like to perform/appear” → “How about this date?” → “Could you send the audio files?” This is the typical sequence.

Reference:[First Time at a Live House] 6 Things to Know Before Your First Show

How do you choose a live music venue that fits the genre?

There are always popular music and genres unique to each region.

That means there are always followers of famous bands there.

In Kyoto terms, that would be things like vocal tracks, pop, and hardcore.

Also, as for characteristics of live music venues in Kyoto, I feel there are many long-established venues, and many are tucked away down narrow lanes in places you have to walk to.

It might be a good idea to start by choosing places that are easy to get to or by picking from equipment you usually have on hand.

Are there any benefits to performing at live music venues?

First of all, “performing in front of others.”

Live music venues typically come fully equipped with sound and lighting, making them the perfect nearby spaces for performing.

And I think there’s meaning in how the tension and pressure of being paid to perform spurs you on.

By building connections with people from live music venues and others in the industry, you’ll be able to take the next step in your life as a musician.

Your questions

What do you mean by “norma” (quota)?

In the past, tickets were issued by live music venues and the performers sold them by hand, but now...Reservation system (for holding items)is the mainstream.

Torioki refers to a method that saves the trouble of handing out tickets: the performer gives the live house the visitor’s name and number of guests, and the visitor pays at the reception upon arrival.

I’d like you to perform at an event with tickets priced at 2,000 yen, with a quota of 15 tickets.

I also sometimes get invited to live events and the like.

Reference:What Are Ticket Quotas? [Introduction to Live Houses]

Is it okay to participate in events of different genres?

With music becoming increasingly diverse these days, opportunities to perform together with bands from different genres are not uncommon.

Consider it as an advantage and make it appealing to a large number of customers.

Lastly

We received many questions, and the content we had prepared kept expanding, so we were able to proceed enjoyably as well.

To everyone who attended, thank you very much!

Going forward, I would like to continue regularly holding the “young talent development” initiatives I’ve long cared about at a pace of once a month, making use of the studio environment.

Of course, if you’re thinking of performing at a live house from now on, and even if you’re experienced but curious, please do come!