Solo musician: Plan individual musical moments and the complete commission
A solo musician performs as one person but may combine instruments, voice or accompaniment. The suitable choice depends on desired sound and programme role. A quiet reception is a different commission from a short stage performance.
Select the musical format
Piano, guitar, strings, wind instruments or voice create different effects. Clarify instrumental, vocal, backing track or live-built loops. A soloist with backing is not an additional live band.
If the instrument is open, request suggestions around the event. Samples should show the offered format where possible. A lesson or DJ service does not replace a suitable solo performance.
Agree repertoire and individual pieces
Name styles and a few specific requests. Version, tempo, language and length can matter for one musical moment. A familiar song may not be in the current repertoire.
Special arrangements or new pieces can need extra preparation. Agree them before booking. An initial request needs musical wishes without personal guest information or family circumstances.
Describe playing time and cues precisely
Give total actual playing time excluding breaks. Several short appearances need individual windows and clear start cues. Waiting and attendance are not automatically the same as performed music.
| Programme | Useful agreement |
|---|---|
| One piece | Title, desired length and start cue. |
| Several blocks | Windows, breaks and possible site changes. |
| Background music | Duration, sound level context and interruptions. |
| Preparation | Setup, test and time before the first cue. |
Clarify an existing or supplied instrument
An existing piano must be ready and suitable for the intended use. Describe known type and condition; tuning, transport or repair are not automatically the musician’s job. Have its use confirmed beforehand.
A supplied instrument may need power, seating, stands or particular transport. Area depends on the actual setup. Ask for conditions instead of assuming a universal minimum footprint.
Check location and sound together
Unamplified playing can suit appropriate acoustics and a smaller setting. Other spaces or programmes need amplification, a microphone or backing playback. Instrumental sound and spoken announcements are separate tasks.
Discuss indoors, outdoors, weather protection and power. Clarify floor, lift and approach. One musician can still need setup and a test. Recording or transmission requires separate technical and rights arrangements.
Compare the whole commission
Compare format, actual music time and attendance windows. Preparing a request, supplied equipment and travel can be included differently. A short performance does not automatically make other preparation free.
| Component | What to specify |
|---|---|
| Music | Format, repertoire, playing time and special preparation. |
| Instrument and equipment | Existing or supplied instrument, sound system and accessories. |
| Attendance | Setup, test, waiting and multiple appearances. |
| Logistics | Travel, handling, removal and return. |
| Additional use | Recording, transmission and necessary agreements. |
Coordinate the musical moment
Confirm person, date, pieces and the contact for start cues. Agree changes, cancellation and any replacement search in the contract. An identical replacement is not automatically available.
Agree checks of music rights and site rules with those responsible. Private, public and corporate uses are not automatically equivalent. Acoustic music is not exempt from every sound-related requirement.
- Request. Give format, musical role, location and actual playing time.
- Coordinate. Check repertoire, instrument, equipment and start cues.
- Compare. Consider preparation, attendance and travel together.
- Confirm. Record pieces, windows, responsibilities and changes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I request one short piece?
Yes. Give the desired length and event. The musician decides availability and their offer; no universal minimum playing time is assumed.
Must I choose the instrument first?
No. Describe the sound and role and ask for suggestions. Mention any known preference.
Can an existing piano be used?
After checking and agreement. Type, condition and readiness matter. Tuning and transport should be arranged separately.
Are vocals or backing included?
Only in the agreed format. Instrumental music, self-accompanied vocals and a backing track are different options.
Does a soloist need amplification?
That depends on instrument, room, audience and use. Have amplification and equipment provision clarified.
Does waiting count as playing time?
Not automatically. Separate music duration from the complete attendance window. Several short appearances may need longer presence.
