Frequently Asked Questions
Q: WHAT’S the DEAL?
A: The purpose of The Circuit is to book you shows all over town so you don't get bored of the same venues, you get PAID (unlike writer's rounds), you get practice performing longer sets, and you get experience out in the music world. You get notoriety, sometimes free content of your performances, exposure, and cash. You will always be allowed TIPS at these shows. Each time you complete 6 shows, your bonus will go up for the next 6. This allows us to start charging the venues more for good performance, but get in with them at a reasonable price that they’re willing to “try it out” for.
Why is it run like this?
Booking your own shows is a PAIN. Reaching out to venues is tedious and hard. Who do you call? Who do you talk to? How much do I charge? Etc.
The purpose of the circuit is to get you into venues for the first time so that the venue can assess
1. if they like you
2. if they'd have you back
3. having music in their space at all, etc.
Some venues don't have the budget or don't want to invest in music and this is a test run for them. Some venues are willing to give it a try with less $ investment, which is where the circuit comes in.
The idea is that once you complete the first circuit (which you will be paid after completing the 6 shows (you get all the tips from the shows in the moment obviously). Some of these venues are paying less than this, some more, and it is all equalled out so there's no fighting between musicians of who got what venue, blah, blah, blah.
Once you're there, it's up to you to:
- Show up on time
- Make a good impression
- Play wonderful music
- Make connections and start relationships with the venue
Q: WHAT DOES NASH BASH GET?
A: Unfortunately, some shows Nash Bash will take a loss on, a.k.a. we are paying you the $300 out of our own pocket at the end. Some shows, Nash Bash comes out ahead and with that money, we are able to pay for the bonuses, booking costs, equipment (yes, Nash Bash is even paying for amps and mics and sound at some of these venues.. so you don't have to buy it and lug it around!)... all so that you can make a consistent amount at each show + get all of your tips. Many of these have packed bars or high traffic areas and you will definitely get tips (beyond the $50 you are getting for the show).
Q: WHY WOULD I USE YOU INSTEAD OF GOING TO THE VENUE MYSELF?
A: Firstly, it's hard to get in touch with the right person at many of these venues. Like, really hard. We've reached out to hundreds of venues and instead of you spending countless hours finding emails and walking into bars, Nash Bash is doing that for you. Secondly, some of them expect the world and won't give you anything. We have a show (that will be sent out shortly) that will even be giving you free dinner and drinks (at a luxury steak house) with your show. There are so many perks when we make booking easy for the venues. Lastly, you may not have the experience to get into these places on your own... but Nash Bash will give you the chance to swoop in and start building your portfolio.
Q: HOW DO I GET PAID?
A: You get paid $300 for the first Circuit of 6 shows, PayPal'd once you've completed them. You get ALL of the tips you get from the show immediately. Future Circuits you will make MORE and can also be negotiated. The first one is a test run. If the venue loves you, they’ll want to keep you… and we can use this to increase your pay!
“The Circuit is “a foot in the door,” so that you can start charging your NORMAL price later on. It’s also a way to get tips and keep making money with music, with someone else booking your shows!”
Q: WHAT IF I CAN'T PLAY 3 HOURS STRAIGHT?
A: If you’d like to take the 2 hour shows only, that is fine too, however, many request 3 hours. If you don’t feel comfortable, please don’t book them. When you feel ready, get back in touch.
Q: WHO DO I TALK TO ONCE I GET TO THE SHOW?
A: You will have the name of the contact person, should you arrive and be lost or confused!
Q: HOW WILL I KNOW IF I CAN PLAY THERE AGAIN?
A: The hotel will be receiving a survey on how you did-- were you on time? did they like you? did you seem prepared? do they want you back? and that will inform Nash Bash of whether or not you will be returning to that venue the next Circuit!
Q: DOES EVERYONE HAVE THE SAME CIRCUIT?
A: Everyone has a Circuit that is tailored to them. No one will be in the exact same 6 shows. Some venues want country, some want jazz. Some want pop. Some are better for those who have played 100 shows. Some better for those who have played 5.
Q: WHEN WILL I GET MY BOOKING FORMS?
A: Many of these venues have not had music like this before, so they have to acquire the equipment to have them, which takes budgeting and months of planning/purchasing. You will get the shows the second the venues are ready. You’re always welcome and encouraged to play the same shows more than once. Venues may even request you do one weekly!
Q: HOW WILL I BOOK MY SHOW?
A: You will receive a link to pick your time.
Q: CAN I PICK WHICH VENUES?
A: Technically, yes. If there's a venue you don't want to play, just don't reserve a time. Hopefully with 10+ venues you'll be able to get 6 in regardless. But, the quicker you complete the 6 shows, the faster you make the end $!
Q: How do I become listed in the Nash Bash Circuit Directory?
A: You have to audition and be approved by a set of panelists. You can still do some venues in the Circuit without being approved, but only auditioned folks will be listed on the directory.
