What Does a Concert Promoter Do?

Wikipedia say: Tour promoters (also known as concert promoters or talent buyers) are the individuals or companies responsible for organizing a live concert tour or special event performance. But I prefer to divide this in 3 different fields: Tour Promoters (In charge of a tour of a band/artist), Talent Buyers (basically work for clubs or venues) and Concert Promoters.

This opportunity we will talk about Concert Promoter, which is someone who publicizes and promotes/produce live events, such as massive concerts (Arenas, Stadiums), Live House (small venues, theatres, etc..) and music festivals. They organize gigs, book bands/artists, produce the show (technical production) and advertise the shows to bring in paying attendees and profits. In another article we will talk about Tour Promoters or talent Buyers.

What Does a Concert Promoter Do?

The concert promoter works with an artist or band manager to plan for a show to occur. They agree upon a date and look for an appropriate venue.

Dave Laing writes that: ‘the term ‘promoter’ is widely used in the music industry to describe the person or company responsible for the physical organisation and presentation of a concert or festival’

The promoter negotiates any fees for the artist and then publicizes that event through radio, television, online or email advertising.The concert promoter ensures the artists have everything they need, from hotel rooms to sound checks.

It is always a smart idea for the concert promoter to create a contract with the band or agent and have everyone sign it. The contract should clearly state:

  • any fees paid to the promoter
  • who will be providing accommodation and travel expenses
  • who will take care of the back line
  • the date and time of the sound check
  • the length of the band’s set
  • and what the band will get for a rider

Also can find more information about concert promoter’s work in the article: “Why Concert Promoters Matter?“.

What is a Concert Promoter’s Work Environment?

A concert promoter typically works in a regular office and may have an assistant or a team. Some opt to meet with clients off-site, at restaurants or other entertainment locations. Others do most of their work online or over the phone.

How Do I Become a Concert Promoter?

There isn’t a formal education path required to become a Concert promoter. The most essential skills are a love of music and business savvy, so a degree in business or marketing can be very useful. The ability to negotiate effectively is essential, as you will need to bargain with artists, venues, hotels and more.

Understanding different aspects of the business is important. Read trade magazines to understand the latest developments and see how other events are put together.

If possible, try to get an internship with an event management company. You can get experience planning and promoting major events, which can be invaluable, even if the events are not related to music.

Many people start out on their own offering their services for free or at a steep discount to local bands trying to make a name for themselves. They check out smaller bars, cafes, and fairs for venue options and research lower cost options for equipment or security. While you may not make any money for the first few events, these experiences can pave the way for larger and more lucrative opportunities going forward.

Job Outlook

Many people enter the business without fully understanding the demands of the job, so turnover and job burnout is high. For those who stay in the business, it can be fiercely competitive, as there are large amounts of people who try to succeed. Particularly for those just starting out, it can be difficult to get steady work within the industry.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS, classifies concert promoters as “advertising, promotions and marketing managers.” The BLS reports that jobs for these professionals will increase 13 percent through 2020, which is average compared to the 14 percent growth rate for all occupations. The economy plays a role in the number of concert goers – and jobs. Concerts are expensive and people likely attend more of them when they have more disposable income. Those who want a start in the field may first need to work as assistants or in related careers to get experience.

If you want to know more about how much does a concert promoter make, you can read about the average income of concert promoters in this link.

If you have a strong knowledge of music, a passion for the industry, outstanding communication and negotiation skills and motivation, you may excel as a concert promoter. It’s a challenging and competitive career path, but it can be very rewarding work if you love what you do.