When you have solid road management behind you, you’ll likely have a well-orchestrated schedule that helps you play to as many crowds as possible. A road tour manager is an experienced professional in the music industry and an ally who aims to help you have an enjoyable touring experience. Band tour management may schedule brief stays in each city so that you can get to your next gig, but here are some tips to help you get the most out of short tour stops.
Go Out On Solo Expeditions
Sometimes going out as a group can take twice as long. Group outings require catering to others’ needs and preferences, which also means making sure the timing works for everyone’s schedule. Since you only have a limited amount of time in each city when you’re on tour, try going on some sightseeing expeditions by yourself. Just be sure to notify band members, crew, and your tour manager so that they know where you’ll be. Consistent communication is important during a tour.
Play It by Ear
Because of the dynamic nature of going out on the road with your band, you generally want to avoid making concrete plans in any destination city beyond the commitment to play your concert. The focus of your time in each city is going to be to perform at your band’s scheduled gig. Therefore, making a lot of elaborate plans or booking personal excursions in a destination is not a good idea. It’s best to look into the cool things to do in each city, but avoid nailing down specific plans until you see how much time you ultimately have.
Go on Social Media
One of the rewarding things about being on tour is the opportunity to reach new music fans. You can increase that outreach through social media — talking about your tour and each new place you visit, perhaps coordinating your individual posts with the band’s page. By saying personal things about each tour destination and posting photos of your adventures there, you can use local hashtags and better reach music fans in the area.
Keep in mind that you can end up seeing a lot of the world when you’re on tour. Band tour management will typically try to book you in as many cities as possible. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see the world while doing what you love.