It is important for the singer, speaker, or the entertainer to understand well the way to use the microphone. Because knowing to use the microphone will help you to look more professional. It is better for you to prepare everything before performing on the stage. Avoid the problems caused by the tool which you use to perform.

To prepare your live stage, the rehearsal is needed to be done. By doing the rehearsal, you will know the operation of the tool and all the technical items you must understand. The rehearsal process will help you to handle if the problem emerges during your live performance. For your information, the microphone and the speaker system is the important aspects which are able to make or break the live performance.

The first thing you should do before entering the stage is ensuring that you have made the adjustment to the microphone setup during the performance. Do not avoid this process because adjusting the microphone setting will help your performance runs smoothly.

After standing behind the microphone, you should adjust the microphone stand if the stand is too high or too low. Adjust it according to your height. Having the right position will deliver the professional performance to the audience.

If your microphone is wired version, then it is better for you to watch carefully where the cables and the amplifiers are placed. This will help you to avoid the tripping problems over the cords and cables when you are moving around on the stage. You probably need to consider the wireless microphone version if you want to have the dynamic performance. You will not need to worry about the cord or cable problem during the performance.

If you are deciding to perform without any microphone stand, then it is suggested for you to move it away. It can also be done when you want to lift the mike from its stand. The microphone’s function itself is catching the sound while you are speaking or singing. The sound then is sent to the audience. You should project the voice beyond the mike not at the mike. By doing this, you can strain your voice.

During the live performance, you should not point the mike to the speaker directly. You will get the effect of the howling feedback which can spoil your live performance. It is better for you to do the sound check before any performance. If you cannot do it by yourself, then ask the expert to evaluate the sound you produce.

For your information, the more expensive microphone will provide you the better quality. It is better for you to find the consumer reviews before buying the wireless handheld microphone for your performance. You may also consider the wireless USB microphone as another option.
Article Source: EzineArticles.com – expert=Alvaro_O_Butler
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Pianist ought to make piano hand workout routines a component of their routines to be able to sustain adroit flexible fingers. Musicians are also sportsman, only they use smaller muscles. Daily tendon and muscle exercises keeps them stretched and powerful. If you’re seeking to engage in many musical styles, exercise both hands on a daily basis.

One form of hand exercise is playing scales. Sit up tall on the piano bench. To ensure correct body alignment, make sure your posture is accurate. Situate your right hand on the keys. Begin with your thumb and use each of the following fingers to play the next key. Use different finger to play each note. Start off slow until you get the hang of it.

Practice expressing your notes clearly. Once you reach the top note, go the other way. Use your thumb to end the final note. The more comfortable you get, the faster you should begin to play.

To help relax your muscles, massage your hands and forearms. This minimizes stress while you play. Place a tennis sized ball on sturdy exterior. Gently and slowly, roll your forearm back and forth along the ball. Keep your shoulders loosened. Relax about 30 seconds after you’ve done this for a minute.

Now place your forearm palm-up on the table, and then move the ball to the other hand. Gently roll the ball over your wrist, hand and forearm. Do this exercise for 60 seconds, then rest for 30 seconds. Continue repeating this during the day.

According to Piano Fundamentals, stretching your palms help when you play. Set your left palm on top of your right palm. Your right arm will be facing left and your left are pointing right. Set your hands in front of your chest. Intertwine your pinky fingers and your thumbs.

Your three middle fingers should be touching your palms now. Gently press your hands together and spread your palms. Keep your hands like this for 10 seconds. Stop pressing your hands together and relax. Duplicate this exercise twice.

Curling your fingers helps rejuvenate and keep them limber. Place your right hand on the keys in proper position. Make your hand look like you’re grasping a ball by bending your fingers. Now put your fingers over the proper keys. Move your index finger swiftly, as if you were playing a short note.

Repeat this five times with each finger, relaxing four seconds between each time. Move on to your left hand. You can also exercise by striking the keys and holding them down for two seconds. Once you become comfortable, exercise using both hands together.

Check out Hear-And-Play-Review.com to get significantly more knowledge when it comes to gospel keys 300 and find all you ever sought to learn associated with gospel voicings immediately.
Article Source: ArticleAlley.com

Being a rockstar and having a music career in music is one of the most fulfilling and exciting lifestyles imaginable. But it’s not only reserved for those at the top.

You can master your own rockstar world with this quick and easy checklist I give all of my students. Rock on!

1. Master Your Instrument/s(voice – and piano, guitar etc.)
2. Impress yourself as if you were trying to impress your boss. Being a Rockstar is a job – treat it like one.
3. Surround yourself with people better than you.
4. Never think for a second that you can’t do it.
5. Everything everybody says to you is advice- not gospel.
6. Learn from the music you listen to and then take it one step further – rather than copy it.
7. Never, never, ever burn bridges- There’s absolutely no reason to be vindictive or look down on anyone in the business – because hopefully you will have a long career and everyone’s working hard just like you.
8. Make sure your whole camp is on board with your music and direction – There are plenty of people out there looking for great artists.
9. Dress the part, act the part, live the part- because you are 24/7 marketing yourself – and there’s a lot of competition out there.
10. It’s never about YOU – it’s always about THEM. Be interested in people – don’t blabber on about yourself. People do business with people they like.
11. Despite popular opinion, those in the music industry that drink and do drugs are not nearly as respected as those that don’t.

Cari Cole is a renowned vocal coach, artist development expert, songwriter, & music producer. She helps artists find their voice, craft their style, and create successful music careers. Cari’s client list includes Grammy winners, American Idol finalists, legendary rock stars, Major & Indie label artists, and thousands of aspiring & emerging artists.

Her Step Up to the Spotlight Program works with artists worldwide and her Singer’s Gift Vocal series is foundational for all vocalists. To learn more and to get Cari’s free 7 Steps to Stardom Checklist, visit her website and blog at http://www.caricole.com.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

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If you want to get gigs, then you are going to have to do some schmoozing with club owners, bar owners and people of that nature. This means you are going to have to appear as professional and convincing as possible. You are going to have to come prepared with all the gear you need to successfully market yourself so you can book gigs and get paid.

First impressions are the most important thing in this biz. If you want to book gigs then you need to bring the following things with you to a meeting: a resume, a demo, a business card (with a link to your site), a poster or flyer, price and a confidant attitude.

And most importantly, dress for success. You don’t have to wear a tux, just look presentable. You might even want to bring your instruments in case they want a short live audition, you never know.

Hopefully you will get the gig and it will end right there but you may not get hired right away. If this is you then you need to have a little persistence. Stop in every week or so and see if they have anything for you.

Ask them if anyone has canceled and if there is a spot that needs to be filled. But beware, there is a fine line between persistence and stalking so be careful you are not doing the latter. Remember, the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

There are other places to play besides bars and clubs. Get creative! What about coffee shops, music stores, high school dances, book stores, restaurants, parks, festivals, fairs, or private parties? The same rules apply when meeting with the people that are related to these events and places.

If you can’t find gigs at these places, ask them to refer you to someplace you can book gigs. If you present yourself professionally then they will respect you, even if they don’t have a spot for you.

One thing you can try to do is convince the owners or whoever you are meeting with that you can draw a crowd. Don’t promise this if you can’t make it happen. And if you promise this, then you need to make it happen.

I am sure you have friends, family, acquaintances and co-workers that you can convince to come see you. It is even better if you have a solid group of fans going that will show up as well.

All of these tips will help you get gigs. Market yourself because no one else is going to do it. Remember, you can be your best asset or your worst enemy. Don’t go to a meeting unprepared and don’t stalk the people you have meeting with.

If you want to get gigs then presenting yourself as a professional, top quality musician the eventually people will be knocking at your door for a change.

Author Bio: The former owner of an independent record label, current owner of Platinum Millennium publishing & national music industry seminar speaker/panelist. He’s also the author & creator of 40+ best-selling music business books, reports, courses, audio products & more “How to” resources, that helped 1000s of people like you to success. Go to GiggingforDollars.com for more info.
Article Source: ArticleGeek.com – Free Website Content

Kulak’s Woodshed (KulaksWoodshed.com), is an LA music venue that is a center of the LA singer/songwriter scene, live streams performances worldwide via the worldwide web.

One of LA’s best kept secrets is now making it known throughout the US and the world that live performances of seasoned players and new artists can be viewed for free on the Kulak’s Woodshed website.

Kulak’s Woodshed was started by Paul Kulak who had a dream about having a music club that streamed video on the web in 1997, and he actually opened the Woodshed in 1999. It became so popular with musicians and artists that it became its own self fulfilling prophecy.

The only problem Paul had was keeping the Woodshed open financially, when it became so popular with musicians, which led to how it operates today; completely with audience donations and the dedication of volunteers as a labor of love.

“Our shows are constantly praised by high ranking entertainment industry people here in L.A. and around the world who believe that live webcasting is the next big thing and artists from beginners to Grammy winners perform here because they want to be a part of it.” says Kulak, adding “I’m very hopeful that the timing is right for this to resonate with online audiences.”

Kulak’s Woodshed is like a television studio with props and a set that feels like a living room where friends can play to friends and seats 49 people. It has 6 cameras and a professional sound system which have all been donated.

The intimacy translates well via live streaming to help the online viewers feel part of the experience; and viewers can even email performers and get a response during the shows.

On Monday nights, the Woodshed broadcasts its very popular “Open Mike” Night where 35-40 mostly regular performers play their music to a full capacity crowd and many online viewers.

Some of the notable Woodshed “Featured Artists” include Jackson Browne, Paula Cole, Peter Case, and Delaney Bramlett. Other “Featured Artists” at the Woodshed have included Jack Tempchin, Guitar Shorty and Deacon Jones.

Tempchin was songwriter for “Peaceful Easy Feeling” and “The Girl From Yesterday” recorded by the Eagles. Guitar Shorty played with Ray Charles, Willie Dixon, Guitar Slim Big Joe Turner, and Little Richard. Jones was band leader for John Lee Hooker for 18 years.

A full list of Woodshed artists can be viewed at KulaksWoodshed.com/artists.

Current “Featured Artists” range from well known artists like Wendy Waldman who performed on July 8th, to emerging artists like T. J. Doyle and Allan Frank performing at the Woodshed on August 20th.

The Woodshed broadcasts from 7:30pm to 10:00pm on Mondays for the Open Mike Night show, and Featured Artist performances are broadcast from 8:00pm to 10:00pm PST on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

Paul Kulak refers to the Woodshed as a “labor of love.” Now people anywhere in the world can be part of his “labor of love”!

Paul Kulak can be reached at paulkulak@earthlink.net.

Article Source: Amazines.com

This week we’re going to look into some tips on how to improve your technical agility. One of the main abilities a musician must have is to have command of the technical aspects of his/her instrument.

Tip #1: Play everything slowly

“Slow is the same as fast”. Maybe you’ve heard of that phrase. I’d like to interpret it as understanding that all movements that you make while playing rapid passages must have the same relaxed feeling as though you were playing slowly. What better way to do that than practicing slowly?

You’ll have to practice slowly and do NOT increase the tempo at any time! Breathe relaxed, concentrate but don’t let your muscles stressed or tight in any way. Practicing slowly give you a chance to hear the music exactly, listen intensively and therefore make your brain learn it “inside-out”.

Tip #2: Concentrate on problem areas

Learn to isolate difficult passages. Listen into them. Figure them out harmonically, mechanically and rhythmically. After your practiced the difficult passage, connect it back to the music a few measure before and after. This way you are “de-isolating” the passage back into the music.

Tip #3: Remember, it’s about making music

Once a new student came to me for lessons and played a few things for me that he’d been practicing up to that point. He commenced to play an exercise in a very technical, non-emotional fashion. I stopped him and asked why he has played like that. He answered, “Well, it’s just a technical exercise. It has nothing to do with music.”

So, I said, “OK, so throw it in the trash!” The point here is that we have to understand something. We play a musical instrument. We do it to play/perform music with it. In order to get the best performances out of ourselves on a consistent basis, we have to “practice performing”. So it is imperative that every time we practice, we should make music.

If something has NOTHING to do with music, we shouldn’t practice it. Think about it. When you practice your major scales, why do you do it? Possible answer are “To better my technique”, “To gain mastery of my instrument”, “to learn to hear the major key”, “to improve my intonation” , etc.

Such answer as “because it’s my homework” or “because my teacher said so” are weak answers and they are NOT going to inspire us to make good music. We need better answers. If an exercise is boring you, ask yourself “Why am I practicing this?”

Look for an answer that is going to motivate you! If you don’t come up with one, LOOK for one! Call a friend, ask your teacher, send ME an email! Do something! Give yourself good reasons and the HOW will take care of itself.

Tip #4: Practice with rhythmic variations

If you’re practicing even scale material, instead of repeating an exercise over and over again the same way (and possibly boring yourself), try playing it with different rhythms.

For example, I’m playing:

1. C – D – E – F – G – F – E – D – C. All eights. Play it 3 times.
2. Then play it as a dotted eighth and sixteenth rhythm. (Or swing eighths) 3 times
3. Then play it as a sixteenth and a dotted eight rhythm (reverse swing) 3 times
4. Then play one group of eight note triplets and a quarter note. 3 times
5. Then the opposite – a quarter note then a group of eighth-note triplets. 3 times
6. Then mix this set – 1 group eighth-note triplet, quarter, quarter, eighth-note triplets. 3 times
7. Then the opposite mix – quarter, eighth-note triplets, eighth-note triplets, quarter. 3 times
8. Then play the original rhythm from the beginning. 3 times.

What does this do? You’ve played the same exercise 24 times without it getting boring. You’ve learned to hear this combination of notes in different rhythms, which aids you to hear deeper into the notes. The speed of the fingers between the notes has varied, eventually strengthening your technique.

I guarantee that if you practice your technical exercises with this method, you’ll reach desired results faster than you have had in the past. You’ll accomplish a lot more in less time.

Tip #5: Learn how to take a break

Practicing 6 hours a day, 7 days a week can be great if you have time to afford yourself this luxury. If you do, my advice is DON’T DO IT! After spending so much time to learn new techniques, new repertoire, new whatever, you can destroy it all by practicing too much!

The brain can only take in some much information at a time and it does it best “piece by piece”, in small relaxed dosages. Even then, the brain needs a rest. Saxophonist Phil Woods has been said the he always plans a day NOT to practice. This day for him is Sunday. He goes fishing. He even stays away from music on this day.

It’s good advice to follow. Plan a day right now that you will NOT practice. Learn to relax. Do something else on that day.

Evan Tate is a Faculty member at the University of Music and Performing Arts Munich, a Julius Keilwerth saxophones endorser, podcaster and author of the book “250 Jazz Patterns” and more. You can contact Mr. Tate at EvanTateMusic.com.

Article Source: ArticleAlley.com

Summer is prime time for large musical festivals. Every genre and crowd has their own music business in all major festivals. Between musicians, fans, and press the event can be a practical who is who of any given scene. Regardless of who is there the large volume of people make a music festival (or any show really) the perfect opportunity to spread the word about your own music business.

I know that we all have been at a show or festival and been handed a flyer to another show. I typically find this action annoying, but that is because the presentation of the person handing out the flyer. They act as if they are handing out a sample of toothpaste on the street during lunch hour. If you are passing out flyers or demos you need to impress the people in the ten seconds you have their attention.

You become a living television commercial in these situations. You need to grab and hold attention while inspiring your audience to check out your music biz or show. Exude genuine enthusiasm when you approach someone.

Sell yourself and your music to them. Do not act cool or disinterested. You obviously are interested since you are handing out flyers or CDs. Remember this is a commercial and you want the people to remember you.

A good example of memorable grassroots promotion comes from Anton Newcombe of the Brian Jonestown Massacre. In the documentary DiG! Anton is shown outside a CMJ music business showcase wearing roller blades, all white, alien goggle glasses, and a fur cap passing out free LPs for industry people to listen to. This presentation will definitely be remembered.

Of course this technique may be a bit over the top for most and pulling off something so dramatic will definitely come off as forced. This style worked for Anton because it matched his personality. Your personality and that of your music must come through just like Anton did at CMJ.

When handing out your bands materials always be sure to look the person in the eye and make sure you have their full attention. You need to lock on and make that connection and sometimes eye contact may be enough to reach someone.

When advertising you will be seen by many but the percentage of people who actually invest time in whatever you are handing out will be small regardless of how well you present yourself.

The point is to be seen by as many people as possible in hopes of sticking with a few observers. Do not be afraid to put yourself and do not be turned off by a low success rate. Getting even one person interested is worth the effort.

Greg Joes – We provide marketing and promotional services to clients seeking exposure in the music business. We provide Independent Artist and labels with the means to service their records to industry insiders and potential new fans.

Article Source: Music Business – Cash in on the Big Show

If you learn to play guitar, drums or bass for example the next step that many of you will want to take is to start your own band. This has been the dream of teenagers for years but just how do you go about undertaking this? Well there are a number of avenues that you can explore; you could advertise for other members or you may know people who have friends or family who are also interested in starting up a band.

In my experience however one of the main ways that bands come together is friends. If you are learning guitar and your best friends are learning bass and drums it comes pretty naturally that you will form a band together but deciding to be in a band is one thing, making it work is another…

As your skills with a particular instrument, such as the guitar progress, it is a logical step to then go on to form or join a band, especially, as I have mentioned above, if you know people who have a musical flair. So what is one of the most important aspects of a successful band?

It has to be a solid foundation. This is key to preventing disagreements and ultimately the break up of the band. You need to get all of the components for the band correct at the start in order for you to have success.

Without this your band wont be held together, meaning failure is bound to strike. The key components to any band are the members within it, the style of music and the instruments involved, when this is sorted you are free to get creative and start writing your songs.

Song writing is a process that should involve all of the members, and everyone should agree with what is being produced because as well as achieving the right mixture you also need to ensure that the lines of communication are open.

When you are in the process of writing a song you need to allow for time to get the song exactly how you want it, this may take a few practice sessions to complete or it could be done in one day, the important thing is to not rush the creative process.

Your songs are the most defining aspect of your band, if your songs fail to make an impression then so will your band, which is why getting them right is of so much importance, just like practicing is. Its no good having a song list perfect if you haven’t learn the songs, so in order to do this you should set aside at least two or three nights a week where you can all meet up and practice.

There is a lot more to starting your own band than simply learning to play and forming the actual band and writing some songs. You need the right equipment and the right promotion. Where your equipment is concerned you should already be armed with guitars, bass, drums etc as well as amps.

So what else is important? A good PA system. All of your speakers, including large small and fold-back ones should be all plugged into a sound mixer. Equipment can however be expensive so it is a good idea to gradually build up the equipment that you have for your band.

So what comes next? Well as I have previously mentioned: promotion, use the Internet, friends, family etc to get your name around a bit and book live shows; get your music out there to people; support other local more established bands with a similar music sound to your own as this will grab the interest of people with a taste for that particular genre and it will also get you good contacts through the band you are supporting.

There is so much good, undiscovered talent around but the key to getting yourself noticed is to get yourself established in the local music scene. So get to know other bands, put on shows and get on shows and keep the live music scene alive.

Find all the best sites at WhichGuitarSite.com for the best easy guitar songs. From beginner guitar songs to intermediate level. Both electric and acoustic guitar songs.

Article Source: Starting your Own Band

If you want to get gigs, then you are going to have to do some schmoozing with club owners, bar owners and people of that nature. This means you are going to have to appear as professional and convincing as possible. You are going to have to come prepared with all the gear you need to successfully market yourself so you can book gigs and get paid.

First impressions are the most important thing in this biz. If you want to book gigs then you need to bring the following things with you to a meeting: a resume, a demo, a business card (with a link to your site), a poster or flyer, price and a confidant attitude. And most importantly, dress for success. You don’t have to wear a tux, just look presentable. You might even want to bring your instruments in case they want a short live audition, you never know.

Hopefully you will get the gig and it will end right there but you may not get hired right away. If this is you then you need to have a little persistence. Stop in every week or so and see if they have anything for you. Ask them if anyone has canceled and if there is a spot that needs to be filled. But beware, there is a fine line between persistence and stalking so be careful you are not doing the latter. Remember, the squeaky wheel gets the grease.

There are other places to play besides bars and clubs. Get creative! What about coffee shops, music stores, high school dances, book stores, restaurants, parks, festivals, fairs, or private parties? The same rules apply when meeting with the people that are related to these events and places. If you can’t find gigs at these places, ask them to refer you to someplace you can book gigs. If you present yourself professionally then they will respect you, even if they don’t have a spot for you.

One thing you can try to do is convince the owners or whoever you are meeting with that you can draw a crowd. Don’t promise this if you can’t make it happen. And if you promise this, then you need to make it happen. I am sure you have friends, family, acquaintances and co-workers that you can convince to come see you. It is even better if you have a solid group of fans going that will show up as well.

All of these tips will help you get gigs. Market yourself because no one else is going to do it. Remember, you can be your best asset or your worst enemy. Don’t go to a meeting unprepared and don’t stalk the people you have meeting with. If you want to get gigs then presenting yourself as a professional, top quality musician the eventually people will be knocking at your door for a change.

Author Bio: The former owner of an independent record label, current owner of Platinum Millennium publishing & national music industry seminar speaker/panelist. He’s also the author & creator of 40+ best-selling music business books, reports, courses, audio products & more “How to” resources, that helped 1000s of people like you to success. Go to GiggingforDollars.com for more info.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com – Free Website Content

1. Prepare and rehearse. Know everybody else’s lyrics, so that you can fill in and define parts of the song to get or keep the crowd hyped. Rehearsal is important in order to show that your a professional or on the brink of becoming a pro, you’d got to know where the other person should be onstage.

2. The lead vocalist should almost always take center stage, then move from right to left interacting with the crowd. Always, go center stage when your verse starts this brings the attention to you, especially if you have multiple people on stage.

3. When being the leading vocalist of a song whether it’s a hype song or mellow, use apart of your body to keep the beat or rhythm of the music such as; dancing, moving the mic to the beat, move your hips to the beat, etc…. This shows the crowd your into it, and pulls them into your world.

4. Setting up your song- People want to be able to connect with you as a performer. Talk to them, tell them a short story about yourself that leads up to a song. Either, the story can be funny or serious, as long as it leads into a song that emphasizes the feelings of the story, your audience will be able to connect with you.

5. Have fun- the audience knows when your nervous or having a bad day. Being able to perform in front of people should get you amp’d anyways. But most importantly have fun, show the crowd that your enjoying yourself, and they will enjoy right along with you.

TIPS:

A. Rehearsal is the building block of all performances. It can bring you great ideas and x out the bad ones. Rehearsal is important because it makes your shows tight, meaning like a well taught karate move, you do it without thought or thinking. Rehearsal is the only thing that can make your show cohesive and eliminates the stars from the fakers.

B. Mirrors- If you have the means to do it. Mirrors can be great in fine tuning a act. As in step 1 on this “how to”, in a mirror you can see where everybody is and what there doing when your in the middle of your verse.

C. Back to rehearsals- If you ever get pre-stage jitters rehearsal can fix that. Just when you rehearse imagine yourself and how’d you want to feel in front of a audience, even the nervousness. It will help you cope with.

WARNING

DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT turn your back to the audience unless it’s incorporated in your show plans. If you turn your back it may show that your disinterested in the performance and you may loose touch with your audience.

DO NOT try to get the crowd hype and follow you if the crowd is honestly not feeling you yet. You may totally loose touch and you may be faced with a crowd full of blank stares. Or worse, you may loose your mojo totally and get the infamous booooooooooo…

http://www.lokey210.blogspot.com

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