Gigging covers or original band

Pub and venue landlords, couples planning weddings, event organisers, companies and private party hosts.

A fee per gig, usually split between band members after costs. You can add earnings from merchandise sales and tips, and raise your fee as you build a reputation.

• Playing or singing at a good live standard
• Reliable, with regular rehearsals
• Self-promotion and booking gigs
• Getting on with bandmates

• Public liability insurance, which many venues ask to see; check what cover you need
• Venues usually hold the music licence for live performance, but check this with each venue
• If you play covers on recordings or streams, check licensing with PRS for Music and PPL
• Agree in writing how fees, expenses and equipment costs are shared, and what happens if someone leaves
• Get PAT testing for electrical kit if venues ask for it, and look after your hearing
• Check how to declare income, as most band members are sole traders and must register with HMRC if earnings pass the trading allowance

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £5,000, depending on the instruments, amplification and sound equipment you already own or need to buy. These are estimates, so agree in writing how equipment costs are shared.

Monthly revenue is typically around £200 to £2,000, depending on how many gigs you play and the fees you agree. That is before it is shared between members and expenses are paid. These are estimates, not guarantees.

Check what public liability cover you need and whether each venue holds its music licence. If you play covers on recordings or streams, check licensing with PRS for Music and PPL. Check PAT testing if venues ask, and how to declare income to HMRC.