Claim OwnershipThe Gigging Musician Podcast
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© 2025 The Gigging Musician Podcast
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Playing music for live audiences is one of the most rewarding things on the planet. In this podcast, we dissect everything that goes into being a successful gigging musician.
286 Episodes
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In this episode, Jared breaks down why wedding gigs are more than just love songs and aisle walks—they're bootcamp for high-end corporate events. He challenges the misconception that weddings are beneath serious musicians and makes a bold case that mastering weddings is essential if you want to book—and keep booking—lucrative corporate gigs. He shares how professionalism, gear standards, collaboration, and performance versatility all overlap between the two event types, and how saying “no” to...
In this episode, Jared shares the rollercoaster journey of finally getting on the preferred vendor list of a prestigious wedding venue in Colorado—after years of getting ignored. From strategic outreach to a well-timed performance and a surprising twist involving an injured coordinator, you’ll hear how persistence, empathy, and daily follow-ups ultimately opened the door. Jared breaks down key lessons for musicians who want to break into high-end events and why sometimes not pitching is the m...
In this episode, Jared shares the surprising story of how his lowest-paid, most frustrating gig became the unexpected gateway to a high-paying corporate performance. From chaotic load-ins to venue staff indifference, you'll hear how perseverance and professionalism—even at your worst gigs—can pay off in ways you’d never expect.
In this episode, Jared shares what goes into delivering a high-end solo performance—and why most musicians are drastically undercharging for their time, gear, and expertise. From setting up three PA systems to handling last-minute corporate inquiries and playing multiple locations in one wedding, he breaks down the true value of what musicians provide. You’ll learn the difference between low-end and high-end gigs, why pricing is often arbitrary, and how charging what you're worth leads to bet...
In this episode, Jared reflects on the quote “Wealth Denotes Speed” and how it radically shifted his approach to building a thriving music career. He shares the exact progression of how he raised his solo act rates—from $495 to $1,500+—and what that meant in terms of income, lifestyle, and gig volume. You’ll learn why your prices should start as “WAGs” (wild-ass guesses), how to tell when it’s time to raise your rates, and why understanding basic math could be the difference between gigging b...
In this episode, Jared shares how building genuine relationships with event planners—and actually helping them with their challenges—can lead to more bookings and long-term success as a gigging musician. Hear how a conversation with a hospitality professor and planner sparked ideas for collaboration, and how musicians can use video sales letters to stand out, avoid time-wasting tire kickers, and create a sustainable career—even in uncertain times.
In this candid episode, Jared shares how his electric violin act was banned from GigSalad—and why that may have been a blessing in disguise. He explores the danger of relying on a single lead source (hello, Dan Kennedy’s “most dangerous number is one” rule), and walks through the power of diversification, especially through preferred vendor lists. If you've ever felt too dependent on one gig platform, this episode is your wake-up call—and your roadmap to building a more stable, sustainable gi...
In this episode, Jared breaks down the exact online marketing system he uses to book high-paying weddings and events—without relying on agents, gig apps, or social media algorithms. From getting on preferred vendor lists to using a video sales letter and closing leads on Zoom, this is the blueprint for musicians who want control, consistency, and confidence in their career. If you’ve ever wondered how to build a system that actually gets you gigs, this one’s for you.
In this episode, Jared takes you behind the scenes of a high-paying wedding gig in Estes Park, Colorado. He shares exactly how to approach playing ceremonies and cocktail hours—even if you’ve never done it before. From planning your prelude set to nailing the timing of the recessional, this is your crash course on wedding gigging success.
In this episode, Jared shares why he intentionally performed for free at a high-end venue—and how it aligns with his strategy to get more paid gigs. You'll hear how this corporate event at the Denver Botanic Gardens was more than just a performance—it was a smart move to build relationships with decision-makers and secure future bookings. He also explains the right and wrong way to do "free gigs" so they actually benefit your career.
In this episode, Jared reflects on a unique acoustic wedding gig at the Denver Botanic Gardens—and how it exposed both the raw vulnerability of playing unplugged and the mindset traps musicians face around money. He opens up about his own struggles with limiting beliefs around pricing, shares what it takes to justify high fees, and challenges you to rethink your worth as a performer. If you've ever felt guilty about raising your prices, this episode is your nudge to level up.
In this episode, Jared kicks off the 2025 wedding season with a stunning mountain gig—and a reminder that professionalism always matters. He reflects on how doubling his soloist rates was a game-changer, shares how he problem-solved a ceremony-to-cocktail transition like a pro, and recounts a cringeworthy run-in with a DJ who wasn’t quite ready for prime time. This behind-the-scenes peek at what it takes to thrive (and stand out) at high-end weddings is packed with lessons—and a little bit of...
In this episode, Jared shares a behind-the-scenes look at a $1,800 performance booking at a hospitality school fundraiser—and how it turned into a powerful networking opportunity. He explores the importance of becoming a true resource to event planners, not just musically but also through marketing insights that can help them grow their businesses. From sharing video sales letter strategies to offering genuine support with websites or outreach, Jared breaks down how giving value first can ope...
In this episode, Jared unveils the exact step-by-step strategy behind his newly launched High-End Gigs Launchpad course. Whether you're new to the private events industry or looking to upgrade your current approach, Jared walks you through the entire process—from crafting your sizzle reel and building a high-converting website, to networking with venues and closing high-paying gigs using video sales letters and strategic consultations. This is the roadmap musicians need to thrive in the high-...
In this episode, Jared reflects on two high-end gigs—one at a Wyoming governor’s gala and another at the luxurious Broadmoor Hotel—and the lessons they offer for musicians looking to break into elite events. From the power of repeat bookings and sound engineering tips to nurturing relationships with destination management companies (DMCs), Jared shares actionable insights to help you elevate your gigging game in 2025.
In this episode, Jared shares a powerful strategy shift that’s helped him consistently land high-paying gigs—without leading with price. After playing at the prestigious Governor’s Citizens Award ceremony, he breaks down why talking about price too early can turn potential clients away and how to reframe the conversation to highlight your value as an artist. Jared reveals his proven video sales letter (VSL) process and how one small change led to a $1,250 gig booking on the spot. If you're ti...
In this episode, Jared reflects on his 2024 gigging experiences—the wins, the lessons, and the challenges—and shares practical tips for setting meaningful goals for 2025. He guides listeners through evaluating the quantity and quality of their gigs, understanding the importance of boundaries, and making the necessary shifts to ensure a successful year. Whether you're looking to book more high-end gigs, increase your income, or simply find more fulfillment in your music career, this episode is...
In this episode, Jared reflects on a corporate holiday gig and shares a game-changing marketing tip to get authentic video reviews that build trust with future clients. He also dives deep into overcoming the fear of networking and stepping out of your comfort zone to grow your music business. Using a powerful analogy, Jared explains why growth only happens when you expose yourself to new opportunities and make meaningful connections in the event industry.
In this episode, Jared shares a recent gig experience at the Denver Athletic Club and dives into a crucial topic for gigging musicians: spotting and avoiding scam inquiries. Using a real example from his inbox, Jared breaks down the red flags of a common musician-targeted scam and explains how it works. He also provides actionable advice to help musicians protect themselves while staying focused on booking high-end gigs. Don’t miss this important episode filled with insights to safeguard your...
In this episode, Jared shares his experience of playing a strategic free gig at a linen company’s open house and explains how it led to valuable connections with high-end event planners, venue owners, and catering companies. Discover the art of leveraging sponsorship gigs as marketing opportunities, the importance of building authentic relationships with industry professionals, and when it’s okay to play for free to grow your music business. Packed with actionable insights, this episode is a ...
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