5 Common Mistakes New Gigging Musicians Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Starting your gigging career is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming experience. Whether you're hitting your first open mic or playing a paid gig, there are certain mistakes that many new musicians make when they start performing live. These mistakes can be easily avoided with the right knowledge and preparation.

In this post, we’ll walk through the 5 most common mistakes new gigging musicians make and offer simple solutions to help you perform with more confidence and ease.

Mistake 1: Not Planning Your Set List in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes new gigging musicians make is not planning their set list in advance. It’s easy to think you can just go with the flow, but without a solid plan, your performance can feel scattered, and the audience may lose interest.

Solution:
A well-prepared set list helps you feel confident and in control. Choose a few songs you know inside and out, and make sure they flow well together. If you’re new to gigging and need inspiration, look for easy-to-play, crowd-pleasing songs that work well for different venues.

Mistake 2: Choosing Songs That Don’t Suit Your Voice or Style

It’s tempting to include songs that you like, but if they don’t suit your voice or style, you may end up struggling during the performance. Songs that require a vocal range you're not comfortable with or that don’t match your personal style can make the experience much harder.

Solution:
Stick to songs that suit your vocal abilities and style. Choose tunes that you can perform with ease and that fit your unique sound. This will help you deliver a more authentic and confident performance.

Mistake 3: Ignoring the Audience

Many new performers focus so much on playing the songs perfectly that they forget to engage with their audience. While technical skill is important, audience connection is what really makes a performance memorable.

Solution:
Remember, your audience is there to enjoy the experience, not just hear perfect notes. Smile, make eye contact, and speak to them between songs. Engage with your audience to create an atmosphere where everyone is involved in the performance.

Mistake 4: Not Preparing for Technical Issues

Technical issues are inevitable in live performances—broken strings, mic feedback, or poor sound mixing can all happen at some point. New musicians often overlook these potential problems until they arise, which can throw off the entire performance.

Solution:
Be prepared for technical glitches by bringing backup gear (extra guitar strings, a mic cable, etc.). Familiarise yourself with the venue’s sound setup and make sure your gear is ready to go. Practicing in different environments will also help you adapt if something goes wrong during a performance.

Mistake 5: Underestimating the Importance of Confidence

Confidence is key to a great live performance. Many new musicians struggle with stage fright, which can affect their overall performance. The mistake is thinking that perfecting your instrument will carry you through. The truth is, confidence makes a huge difference in how the audience perceives you.

Solution:
Confidence comes from practice and preparation. The more you rehearse, the more comfortable you’ll feel in front of an audience. Start with small gigs or open mics to build your confidence and gradually increase the size of your performances. Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes—the audience is there to enjoy the experience.

Gigging is a rewarding experience, but it’s not without its challenges. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can perform with more confidence and create better connections with your audience. Preparation, song selection, and confidence are key to delivering a great show.

Download the free Gig Ready Set List now and get started with a proven set of songs that are guaranteed to engage your audience!  A well-organised set list can be the difference between a good performance and a great one!