This next installment of The Fair Play Guide series, discusses showcase competitions and offers some tips to consider before taking part in them.
There has been an increase in showcase-style competitions whereby bands compete against one another, with the winning bands going through to the next stage, which sometimes involves another gig in a bigger venue.
Whilst these competitions are sometimes judged by industry personnel and high-profile musicians, and can therefore offer expertise and valuable opportunities, they can be very expensive to take part in.
Bands are often expected to buy a large quantity of tickets (often 30+) at each stage of the competition, which can become expensive if artists are successful in winning their heats, as the price of ticket, or the quantity purchased by bands, generally increases at each stage.
Some competitions have proved effective for the winning artists, many competitions are seemingly based not so much on the music, but on the amount of tickets bought, or votes registered, by bands and their supporters. In this scenario, the kudos of ‘winning’ is dubious.
Before committing to competitions, consider what you can gain from them:
- Is the prize of any real value? Is there anything on offer that can’t easily be bought?
- Does the competition essentially involve a sequence of gigs to the same audience? How many times will your fanbase be prepared to come and see you on such a regular basis?
- Is it a good use of your time, or would regular gigs offer a better return?
Whats your experience with music competitions? Good or bad feel free to share them, leave us a comment.
Tags: competitions | showcase | the fair play guide
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Although I’ve never played in a showcase competition, there might be some value in doing so. However over the years I’ve heard of bands dedicating so much time and effort to these comps only to have be ‘beaten’ by another (inferior) band – rumour of which is said winning band have connections with judges ie fixed competitions.
Im not saying all competitions are fixed / rigged but it does go on.
I would say to bands starting out is to just focus on writing the best songs you can, learn to play your songs the best you can and build your own fan base. Don’t rush it, it will come.
Steve
I blogged my experience with one of these, it’s interesting to look at the the economics of this kind of thing…
See http://wp.me/p1ddI8-B for the full story…
I personally think that some competitions can be a great platform for musicians and bands,and online competitions like the Make a Star contest (http://www.makeastar.com/) doesn’t cost a thing, you just enter your music.