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How to Plan My Solo Concert

Planning a solo concert is a large undertaking that can seem overwhelming. The trick is to make a list of things that have to be accomplished and seek out the solutions that will create success with your planning. If this is the first solo concert you have orchestrated, take heart; future concerts will be much easier.

Determine the music that will be in your concert. If you are doing this as part of a university degree or in conjunction with a private teacher, ask for suggestions. The music should be diverse enough to keep the audience interested while still maintaining a central theme.

Decide on what instruments will be needed for the music in your concert. Even though this is a solo concert, it doesn't mean you have to perform alone. Soloists often perform with string quartets and piano as accompaniment.

Find a location for your solo concert. Churches, universities, community centers and arts centers are all acceptable places in which to present your concert. Look for a location that has a music hall that is not too big. Since you are putting on a solo concert, you don't want to lose your sound in a massive hall.

Determine what dates are available for the selected location. Make sure to ask for an hour's time before the concert to rehearse and complete a sound check. Once you select a date, pay the booking fee to reserve your spot.

Advertise your concert. Create flyers and post them around schools, universities, coffee shops and music stores. Find places to advertise your concert online. If you have a website, include information there as well. Tell everyone you know and ask them to tell their friends.

Plan a post-concert reception. Most concerts will have a small reception after the performance that includes drinks and snacks. This is an important time for you since you will come out after the concert and talk to the audience. This is an informal event, so you will not be expected to make a speech. You will want to walk around and thank everyone for coming.

Prepare a concert program booklet. The program should give background information about yourself, including who you studied with and your experience as a performer. Give a brief one-paragraph synopsis of the music in your concert. The first page inside the program booklet should include a list of the pieces in your performance. Give the full title, date of composition and composer. In addition, make sure to include the names of anyone performing with you.

Send the program concert booklet to the printer at least a week ahead of time to ensure that there is time to correct any mistakes.

Don't wait until the last minute to book your performance location. Spots often go fast, especially if you are doing this as part of a degree program.

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