Updated on: Dec 10, 2021
The coronavirus lockdown has affected performing artists all around the country by causing hundreds of concerts and events to be canceled. Musicians are working to keep the music industry alive and have turned to the internet and online concerts for their fans. If you’d like to join the online movement, here are some suggestions on how to put on your best virtual concert during lockdown.
11 Ways to Have a Virtual Concert During Lockdown
1. Inspiration
Check out some past virtual concerts or festivals for inspiration, such as this online festival by 88rising or this DJ’s Twitch stream. These performances make use of transition graphics and cute setups that can help to spark an idea for your own concert.
2. Audience
Will you hold a more intimate concert or will you stream your show for anyone to see? Depending on the audience size you have in mind, you can then choose which platform you will use to hold your concert.
3. Platform
You can stream your concert on Twitch, YouTube, Facebook Live, or Instagram. For a more intimate setting, you can also hold your concert on a video calling platform such as Zoom. Each platform works differently and has different features, so you’ll need to decide on a platform to familiarize yourself with the technicalities of audio or visual quality.
4. Sound Quality
The microphone on your computer or phone will not have the best sound quality, so an external microphone will help you sound your best while performing.
If you’d like to monitor your sound during your performance, use headphones instead of speakers in order to hear yourself clearly without the distortion of speaker audio. If you’re using Zoom to hold your concert, here is an article on how to use MainStage to achieve better sound quality.
5. Camera Quality
A camera and a tripod will help you to look your best during your performance, but it can be expensive and difficult to set up depending on the device. If you don’t have access to a higher quality camera or tripod, you can easily improve your performance by purchasing an affordable webcam to set up on your laptop or monitor.
6. Marketing
How you market your event will depend on your audience--including size and demographic. When creating marketing materials, make sure to include details such as the link to your concert, the time and date (including time zone), and something representing the kind of concert your audience can expect.
If you’d like, you can include an RSVP link through platforms such as RSVPify where people can sign up and receive reminders for the event.
7. Background
Since your audience will be able to see where you are, you’ll want to make sure that your space is clean and visually appealing. Choose a spot at home with good lighting, or if you’re performing at night, you can put up some lights in the background for ambiance. You can also step outside for your concert like this artist who stepped into their pool to perform a full set.
8. Engagement
If you’re streaming or performing via Zoom, you’ll be able to engage with your audience by responding to comments or speaking with them directly. Your audience will appreciate being heard, and unlike a pre-recorded video, you will be able to connect with listeners immediately during a live recording.
9. Fundraising
By performing, you can support yourself and other artists alike. Streams such as Room Service have raised thousands for Sweet Relief to benefit struggling musicians or Feeding America to feed the hungry. You can use your voice to promote a cause of your choice by providing your audience a link to your own Patreon or to a charity.
10. Have fun!
It may feel strange to perform on a computer while you’re at home, but don’t forget that you’re not alone. By sharing your music with others, you will be able to reach people from all over the country or even the world. Enjoy this time together, do what you love, and keep playing music.
11. Collaborate!
Get in touch with other artists that would love to perform a virtual concert for their fans! This will help the performing artists expand their following and will be a fun way for fans to see multiple artists at once.
Conclusion
Remember this should be fun and stress free! Following these 11 tips and tricks will help you and your fans have the best virtual concert!
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Written by Amy Chiang; Contributors: Courtney Ludwig and Marianne Vanderbeke