Pubs were hit hard during the pandemic, and many have struggled to stay on their feet ever since. As a result, pub owners are having to assess their offering and make a few tweaks to attract new customers and maintain that classic, cheerful pub atmosphere.
Introducing live music is a great way to boost revenue and footfall at your pub and keep your business going strong. However, there are a number of factors to consider before you can book your first act. From the set up of your venue to your pub insurance policy, it’s important to plan ahead before you start offering live music events.
Here, we explore how to prepare your pub for a live music act.
What are the benefits of live music?
Offering live music will encourage a lively atmosphere in your pub, just like when you screened a football match or poured the post-lockdown celebratory pints. No one wants to hang out in a dull, lifeless pub, so introducing live acts is likely to encourage new business and keep your regulars coming back. This could significantly improve your revenue.
What do you need to consider for a live music night?
Space
Depending on the setup of your venue, you may need to make some changes to accommodate live acts. This could be in the form of setting up a stage or even simply rearranging the bar furniture to make some extra room for the musicians and the equipment needed for a live show.
Equipment and licences
You’ll need to invest in some good quality sound equipment to give your musicians the best chance of success. Start off with a few microphones, mic stands and an amplifier. It’s always wise to ask your musicians what equipment they’ll need prior to the event in case there’s something specific that you’ve not got to hand.
You also need a licence for playing live or recorded music in public. If you haven’t already applied, be sure to do so before booking your first gig.
Documentation
Before you run your first live music event, it’s crucial to ensure any relevant business paperwork is updated. For example, holding a live event might not be covered by your current insurance for the pub, so be sure to discuss your plans with your insurance provider and upgrade your policy, if required.
Promotion
Once you’ve finalised the details and prepared for your live music to begin, you can start promoting it. Telling your patrons when they visit the pub will be a great way to get the word around, but it would also be worth printing posters or flyers to advertise the event.
If your pub has an account on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter, be sure to take advantage of this and post regular reminders about your upcoming live events.
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