A band manager is the person in charge of the business operations of a musical group. She may be involved in every aspect of their music industry affairs or focus on just a few. Depending on the band’s success, the manager may be required to travel or may be able to work from a single location.
When a band is virtually unknown, her job entails more responsibilities than when the group is well-known. The manager is typically in charge of everything from marketing and public relations to keeping the accounting records in order and arranging transportation to various venues in order to promote a new band and ensure maximum exposure. If the band has already established a reputation, the manager’s job typically entails booking them and negotiating lucrative contracts.
A good band manager is frequently credited with the success of a band. In order to generate interest and excitement, she is frequently required to be overzealous in her presentation of their talent to prospective employers. Demo recordings, concert photographs, performance reviews, and promotional materials such as posters, tee shirts, and caps are usually included in her press package. Getting a signed contract for a band usually necessitates multiple pitches to clubs and tour promoters.
A band manager’s job is traditionally to negotiate contracts. Normally, the first contract she negotiates is between herself and the band members. Before the band is signed to perform, the manager and the band usually meet to discuss their mutual objectives. The interests covered in the contract generally detail monetary distribution terms for the band members and manager, as well as traveling restrictions, appearance guarantees, and all signers’ moral and legal responsibilities.
When a band is hired to perform in public, the band manager is typically expected to negotiate the contract’s terms in the band’s best interests. To avoid complications or misunderstandings, the band manager is usually expected to be familiar with contract terminology. If the manager and the band members are still in the early stages of their careers, they may discuss and negotiate the first few contracts together. Once the band has established itself and the manager has earned the band’s trust, she is frequently expected to negotiate terms and conditions on her own.
This position usually does not necessitate any formal education. Because a band manager is responsible for finances and contracts, a degree in business administration or finance may be advantageous. Experience in communications or public relations can also help an aspiring band manager. A band manager’s success is frequently influenced by his or her tenacity and likability.