Music manager for local artists

The artists or bands you manage, usually as a percentage of what they earn from gigs, sales and other work.

A commission, often agreed as a percentage of the artist's earnings, set out in a written management agreement. Income grows as your artists get better-paid work.

• Organising and chasing details
• Negotiating and building contacts
• Social media and basic promotion
• Honest, clear communication

• Get a proper written contract; check what happens if an artist leaves or signs elsewhere
• Income can be small and slow at first, as commission depends on the artist earning
• Keep client money separate and be clear on who pays upfront costs such as travel and promotion
• Register as a sole trader with HMRC and keep records of commission received
• Consider professional indemnity or public liability insurance, and check whether the Musicians' Union or similar bodies offer guidance

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £100 to £1,000, depending on what you spend on tools, travel and promotion. Be clear with your artists about who pays upfront costs such as travel and promotion.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £100 to £1,500, depending on how much your artists earn. Commission depends on their income, so earnings can be small and slow at first.

Check you have a proper written contract, including what happens if an artist leaves or signs elsewhere. Also check registering as a sole trader with HMRC, keeping client money separate, and whether insurance or Musicians' Union guidance suits you.