Slow Gig Season? Here's What You Can Do.

In the up and down world of live music, artists often find themselves navigating through seasons of ebbs and flows. During the quieter periods, rather than twiddling your thumbs and bemoaning the lack of gigs, it's the perfect time to channel your creative energy into productive endeavors that will not only enhance your skills but also contribute to the growth of your musical career. In this blog post, we'll explore a range of activities to keep you engaged and proactive during downtime.

Here are 10 Things you can Do When the Gig Calendar is Sparse

Write Some New Music
One of the most effective ways to stay productive is by creating and releasing new music. Consider recording fresh singles or an EP, and complement them with professionally produced music videos. Use this time to experiment with different genres or collaborate with fellow musicians to bring a new flavor to your sound.

Your Website / Social Channels
Your online presence is an important aspect of your brand. Take advantage of the downtime to revamp your artist website, optimize your social media profiles, and start a blog or vlog to connect with your audience on a more personal level. Share behind-the-scenes moments, insights, and tutorials to engage your fan base.

Collaborate
Collaboration not only adds diversity to your work but also expands your network. Use the slow season to work on new music projects with fellow musicians, create engaging covers of popular songs, and cross-promote with other artists to tap into new audiences.

Work on Your Skills
Never stop learning. Enroll in online courses or workshops to enhance your musical and performance skills. Experiment with new instruments or production techniques that can add depth to your repertoire. Consider offering online music lessons or workshops to share your expertise with others. 

Build Your Network / Make Some Calls
Building and maintaining relationships within the industry is crucial. Attend local events and industry conferences to network, collaborate with local businesses for partnerships, and interact with your fans on social media to strengthen your fan base.

Perform Online
Bring the stage to your fans by hosting live-streamed concerts or jam sessions. Platforms like Twitch, YouTube, or Instagram can be excellent mediums for intimate performances. Interact with your audience through Q&A sessions and create a sense of community even when physical gigs are on pause.

This was very popular during the Covid pandemic. One of my musician friends held a weekly Friday night "Quarantunes" episode during the first several months of the pandemic.

Marketing, Merch & Branding
Diversify your income streams by designing and releasing new merchandise for your fans. Develop a cohesive brand identity that is easily recognizable. Explore partnerships with local businesses for exclusive merchandise opportunities.

Community Engagement
Use your downtime to give back to your community. Get involved in local events or charity work, and organize music-related workshops for schools or community centers. This not only enriches your community but also strengthens your personal connection with your audience.

Your Health
Don't neglect your physical and mental well-being. Focus on activities like yoga or meditation to relieve stress and enhance your performance stamina. Share your journey towards a healthy lifestyle with your fans to build a deeper connection.

Your Business & Your Money
Take a step back to review and update your financial records. Develop a long-term career plan and set achievable goals. Explore new revenue streams and investment opportunities that align with your musical aspirations.

Final Thoughts

While a slow season may seem like a lull in your music career, it's actually a golden opportunity for personal and professional growth. By embracing these productive activities, you not only stay engaged and creative but also position yourself for success when the next busy season rolls around. So, use your downtime wisely, and let it be a season of growth, innovation, and preparation for the exciting musical journey ahead.