chart-o-tron - The Jamaica Plain Honk Band - How to Prepare a Gig Setlist

How to Prepare a Gig Setlist

Understand what the organizer wants

(see “how to be contact//coordinator”)

Include the number of songs that will fit in the designated time, plus 1 or 2 more

in case gig goes longer than expected:

Songs usually last about 3 to 5 minutes each

(including the transition time between)

If multiple components of gig (like a stationary component, and a separate parading component) then do a separate setlist for each

Be aware of which musicians and instruments will be at gig:

If needed, avoid songs that rely heavily on a certain instrument, if few or none of that instrument are planning to be there

Name one musician (confirmed to be attending) next to each song on the setlist as leader of that song:

Alternatively, on day of event at call time, gather all around and for each song on setlist get a commitment to lead it from one person present

Things to consider when choosing songs: balancing factors to alternate

Simple songs vs. songs needing stands sheets

Raucous energetic vs. more on the mellow side

• Start and end with energetic
• Sprinkle mellower quieter in middle

Vocals vs. instrumentals

Old faves vs. newer tunes we’ve been learning

• Avoid some old faves if they get stale

Tunes featuring solos vs. played straight from sheet

Alternate different genres (NOLA vs pop vs etc)

Try to avoid songs in same key before/after eachother

Before posting, have at least one bandmate check it over

If entire band, too many chefs in the kitchen

Post at GigO as soon as you can!!

Adjustments to it later are fine

(except during last ~2 days before gig)