Booking gigs at colleges and universities.
Estimated Cost: Medium
Estimated Time: 3 months preparation with results in 6 months.
Indie Guide Categories: Booking Agencies, Booking Resources, College Booking Resources
What Do You Need to Do This
- Membership fees
- CDs
Edit What's Needed View History
Directions
1. Join campus activity organizations like NACA and APCA.
The National Association of Campus Activities (NACA) and the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities (APCA) are organizations that help colleges find entertainment for their campus events. It costs money to join these groups, but the costs are usually recouped within about three gigs. NACA's yearly associate memberships range from $351-710 and start on May 1 and end on April 30, no matter when you bought it, so don't join too late. APCA's memberships range from $199-1000 and always end on July 1, so remember to send in your application early.
2. Play live at these organizations' annual conventions.
NACA and APCA hold conventions all over the country every year where the activity committees from hundreds of colleges go to find and book acts. NACA's national convention takes place every February, and they also have 6 smaller regional conventions. Four of them are in the fall and two are in the spring. If you attend a regional conference, aim for one in the fall because by the spring, campus activity planning is winding down for the school year. APCA's national conference is also in February and they have regional conferences in November.
3. Talk to activity committees at the conventions.
Most of the time the representatives from the event planning committees at these conventions will be students. Talk to these people and make yourself memorable. Leave them with a CD and some contact information.
4. When you get booked at a college, send your press kit to other venues in that town.
Venues near colleges are always looking for bands to bring in the student crowds. You might be able to book a couple extra gigs, and if you have to travel this will make your trip more worth while. If you do not have a press kit, learn how to make one here.
I'd also suggest contacting the Student Government Association & Student Activities at the various colleges too. Colleges are a great places to get exposure and make new fans!
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