Booking your first show can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We interviewed some of our most successful monthly tenants—bands who’ve played for over a decade, gigging across Canada and the US—to bring you this real-world guide.
Whether you’re just starting out or trying to break into the Hamilton music scene, here’s your step-by-step guide.
🎸 1. Get Gig-Ready
Build a simple promo kit with:
- A tight 20–25 minute set of well-rehearsed music
- A live-off-the-floor demo or performance video (even a phone video works to start!)
- A short band bio (what you play, who you are, and your vibe)
- A few clear photos of your band—stage shots or casual rehearsals are fine
- Links to your music and socials
Pro Tip: At Main Stage, many bands use our live room to record demos, promo videos, and even full albums. The room is fully mic’d and ready to go, with a simple SD card plug-in system that makes recording fast, efficient, and affordable. It’s one of the easiest ways to create high-quality content that shows venues what you really sound like.
📍 2. Pick the Right Venue
Start local and low-pressure. Look for:
- Open mics
- Cafes, bars, and breweries
- Community or DIY spaces
- Battle of the Bands/showcase nights
Pro Tip: Visit venues ahead of time to see what fits your style.
Two local gems to check out:
🎶 The Doors Pub
A gritty DIY staple for metal and punk with a loyal crowd. Upstairs is where it all happens—many of our tenants got their start here.
🍀 The Corktown Pub
A legendary Irish bar known for nightly shows and supporting local talent. It’s a Hamilton institution with decades of live music history.
📧 3. Message Venues Like a Pro
When reaching out, be respectful and clear:
📝 Include:
- Your band name and genre
- What you’re asking: “Looking to play our first show—happy to open or play a short set.”
- A demo link and availability
- Promo/socials if you have them
Example Message:
Hi [Venue Name],
Hope this email finds you well. We’re [Band Name], a [genre] band from [City]. We’d love to play our first gig at your venue. We’ve got a 25-minute set and are open to support slots.
Demo: [link]
More info: [link]Thanks for considering us!
– [Your Name], [Band Name]
👫 4. Network, Show Up, Say Yes
Gigging starts with showing up. So:
- Go to shows
- Meet bands, talk to bookers
- Ask to open for others
- Play open mics
- Be seen in the scene
🧠 5. Be the Band Venues Love
A good first impression = future gigs. Always:
- Show up early
- Stick to your time slot
- Clean up your gear
- Promote the show
- Thank the venue & sound tech
🚀 Pro Tip: Think Outside the Venue
Can’t land a traditional gig yet? Try:
- Hosting a house show
- Playing at a friend’s party
- Busking (check local rules)
- Performing at school or campus events
🎤 Final Thoughts
Your first gig won’t be perfect — and that’s kind of the point. You might drop a stick, miss a cue, or forget the second verse entirely. But none of that matters as much as the fact that you showed up, played your heart out, and started something real.
Every band you admire once stood exactly where you are: nervous, excited, and about to hit the stage for the very first time. So be prepared, be respectful, and don’t forget to enjoy it. Whether you’re playing for five people or fifty, this is the moment your journey begins — and it’s only going to get louder from here.