How to Budget for a Gig

As someone who’s been performing professionally since the ripe age of 15, I get asked all the time “how do you figure out what to charge for a gig?” or, “how much should I pay the band?” So, I decided to make a handy-dandy list of things to take into consideration when planning for a gig or for hiring entertainment for an event! 

The first thing you need to consider is: what type of set up are you preparing for? How many musicians, acoustic or full band, what type of material, and for how long, are all questions that need to be answered before considering a budget. 

Beginners vs. Experienced players charge differently. That’s not to say take advantage of the beginners, they need to pay rent & live too. Think of it more as a sliding scale based on the amount of rehearsal required, experience, and how long they’re playing. Starting point for beginners should be $20-$25/hour/person. More experienced players will request upwards of $100-$250+/person/hour. 

Should a band have to bring a PA system to the gig, you’ll want to factor that into the budget as well since it takes time to set up & break down. 

Another factor to take into consideration is travel. If a band has to drive or fly to a gig, all standard travel costs will need to be factored in. This includes gas or the price of a plane ticket, hotel stays, meals, etc. 

Not every gig will pay the same but it’s also important to take note of if the outcome is worth your time, as well. For instance, maybe a gig doesn’t pay as much as you’d like but it’s a good opportunity to get in front of new faces. Alternatively, maybe a gig doesn’t have the funds to pay what you’re asking and it doesn’t make sense financially for you to play, so it is ok to say no. Knowing your desired outcomes, and knowing your worth and your limits is just as vital to a successful gig as anything else.