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The lights go up, the curtain falls, and the crowd goes wild as you kick out your first song. Thats right, you're a rock star! Now you have to put on a great show. A show that will make people want to see you again. A jaw dropping show that will send chills up the spines of your audience. How? Practice.

Lets face it, there are a lot of bands that can't afford a curtain to drop, pyros, lasers, and three semi loads of power hanging from the rafters. That does not mean you can't put on a great show that will keep the seats full. In order to play a show as a band, you need to practice as a band. Decide in advance how you are going to do the show. Will you play 5 songs in a row and then take a banter break, while you also tune your axe? If so, then practice this way. Become familiar with what it is you want to do. You'll look more professional by preparing and practicing your stage show ahead of time. Know the set list, and the songs that are on it. Have a hard copy of the set list for every member of the band. If you have a

light/sound person, he/she needs a set list to, and should be at practice with you. They should know every little everything about each song. From where to dim the lights for your version of the next great rock ballad to when they should drop the confetti.

Once you have your show ready to go, have a sound system that is crisp and clear. There is nothing worse than going to see a great band or solo performer who is using cheap gear. It will take away from an otherwise quality show. Buy the best PA system your band can afford and learn how to use it. Not every band has a light/sound person. Not every band has roadies. If this is you, know your gear. If something happens during a show, you're more likely to troubleshoot quickly if you know your equipment. Every member of the band should know how to use all of the gear. The last thing you want to do is prepare a great show and then have the show fall on it's face because of sub par equipment, or a lack of knowledge pertaining to your gear. Know the venue. Is this a small bar with one outlet? Is this an arena with endless possibilities, or an outdoors show with limited power supplies and a chance of rain? Know where you are playing and go to the show prepared.

Finally, interact with the audience. Interaction with an audience is much more than the occasional banter. Make eye contact, if someone is singing along, look at them and sing with them. Get the audience involved in any way you can, and keep them involved. Don't a stiff while on stage. You are putting on a show, so put on a show. Practice being the guitar hero from your dreams. Have a presence on stage and it will reflect to the audience.
The next thing you know, they'll be calling for an encore!

Learn more about this author, Jon McCabe.
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