Live event musician for hire

Couples planning weddings, restaurant and bar owners, event planners, breweries, and companies hosting parties.

A flat fee per gig or per hour, plus tips at some venues. Private events like weddings and parties usually pay more than bar gigs.

• Strong playing or singing ability
• A repertoire that suits your audience
• Reliable and professional with clients
• Basic sound setup

• Check whether venues need you to carry general liability insurance
• Check whether performing cover songs at private events or your own shows involves any licensing, which is often handled by the venue, but confirm
• Gig income is irregular, so plan for quiet months
• Keep records of income for the IRS, as you are usually self-employed
• Equipment can be damaged or stolen, so consider insuring it

Estimates are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on the instruments and sound equipment you already own, your promotion and any insurance. Consider insuring equipment against damage or theft.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $300 to $3,000, depending on how many gigs you book, your rates and whether you play solo or in a band. Estimates start from about 6 hours a week.

Check whether venues require you to carry general liability insurance, and whether performing cover songs involves any licensing, which is often handled by the venue. Also keep income records for the IRS, since you are usually self-employed.