- FAQ about hiring a Guitarist
- FAQ about becoming a Guitarist
FAQ about hiring a Guitarist
Can I make a setlist request?
Of course! Most guitarists can work with you to pick out the best songs for your event. Be sure to discuss these details with the guitarist before booking. If you have special requests that they will need to learn or practice, be sure to ask your musician about those as early as possible.
How much does it cost to hire a guitarist?
On average, a solo guitarist costs $200-$450 to perform for two hours. This price can vary depending on location, length of performance, travel costs, and the guitarist’s skill level. Professional guitarists who play acoustic sets oftentimes charge less than those that require a PA system. When researching pricing information, keep in mind that travel costs may also be added to the total.
What kind of events are best suited for a guitar player?
Guitar tracks can be very soothing, which makes them an excellent option for all kinds of events. An acoustic guitar is perfect for romantic settings like wedding ceremonies and marriage proposals. They can also create beautiful background music at corporate events and non-profit events.
If you're looking for something more upbeat, consider a jazz or singing guitarist to provide live music at your restaurant or private party!
What songs will the artist know?
Your setlist options depend on the guitarist you’re booking. Most professional guitarists will have a wide repertoire of songs with a mix of genres like pop, rock, country, and even classical.
If you have a request for a specific song or list of songs, ask the guitarist if they would be willing to play or learn those songs for your event. But be sure to do this far in advance so your musician has plenty of time to practice them.
How long do guitarists usually perform?
Guitarists typically play in “sets” of 30-45 minutes. If your event is several hours long, you will want to discuss the length of their performance as well as the break times they’ll need in between sets.
Will the guitarist take requests from the guests?
Some guitarists will take requests from guests, but most typically create a setlist specifically for your event.
Will the guitarist help me choose a good song or a setlist?
Experienced guitar players are experts in their field, and most are happy to help in any way they can. If you aren’t sure which songs will be best for the type of event you are throwing, they will usually have the insight and knowledge to guide you. Give them some general direction on the vibe you want, and they will curate the perfect setlist to make your event a success.
Will the guitarist bring all of their own equipment?
Most guitarists will bring all they require to play at your event. If the venue you’ve chosen has some equipment available, you will want to outline what is provided by the venue vs. what the guitarist is expected to bring in your contract or booking agreement.
In addition to equipment, consider the guitarist’s needs for the performance space as well, such as electrical outlets for an amp and/or microphone if they are using either. Discuss this all with your musician in advance to ensure your event goes smoothly!
How far will a guitarist travel for an event?
Travel preferences depend on the specific guitarist you’re booking for your event. Some guitarists will travel hundreds of miles for a gig. Others play solely in their local area. If you’re looking to book a guitarist outside of your location, be sure to discuss their travel fees and include these details in the booking agreement.
FAQ about becoming a Guitarist
Can you make money as a guitarist?
Yes! Guitarists, on average, make between $250-$450 for a 2-hour gig. If you’d like to take advantage of all the gigging opportunities in your area, join GigSalad and connect with event and party planners near you!
How much musical experience do I need to become a guitarist?
There is no set amount of experience you need to become a guitarist, but it’s wise to know your instrument well before taking on gigs. The more experience you have performing, the more reviews, referrals, and opportunities you’ll have for future gigs.
How should I choose my setlist?
Most successful guitarists start out by covering popular songs that are heard frequently at events like weddings and private parties. For weddings specifically, here are 10 songs to consider including in your setlist!
Should I have some sample material?
We highly recommend having high-quality media to show potential clients what you have to offer. Include audio samples, videos of you performing, and a variety of photos from headshots to stills from live shows. If you have a GigSalad profile, you can add audio clips, embed YouTube or Vimeo videos, and create a full photo gallery.
Can I sell my music at a gig?
If you have merchandise to sell, it’s good to bring it with you to gigs. However, you will want to discuss with your client whether or not they want your merch out on display at their event.
What copyright restrictions should I be aware of?
As a guitarist, if you’re covering another artist’s songs, a license is required from a performing rights organization (ASCAP, BMI, SESAC) to pay royalties to the appropriate parties. For live performances at a venue, the venue owner is typically responsible for paying the licensing fees that allow them to host guitarists and bands that play cover songs. For recording cover songs, the artist is responsible for obtaining a “mechanical license” which allows you to create a new version of a copyrighted song. If you’re covering copyrighted music in your performances, make sure you do your research and have the right licensing agreement.
