How to Become a Concert Production Staff (Turning Melodies into Magic)

If you’ve ever been captivated by the magic of live music events and wondered what it takes to become a part of the concert production staff, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to kickstart your career in concert production. We’ll delve into:
- The skills you need.
- The education that can give you a head start.
- How to secure a job in concert production.
So, whether you’re a music enthusiast with no experience or a seasoned professional looking to transition, stay tuned.
We’re about to unveil the roadmap to becoming a concert production staff member.
Let’s get the show on the road!
Steps to Become a Concert Production Staff
Step 1: Research the Role and Its Responsibilities
Understanding the role and responsibilities of a concert production staff member is the first and foremost step.
This role can involve several tasks such as managing stage operations, coordinating with the artists and their management team, handling technical equipment like sound and lights, and overseeing security measures.
It’s crucial to understand that this job requires teamwork, physical stamina, and problem-solving skills.
Research can be done through various online platforms, music and event management books, or by speaking to professionals in the industry.
Many professionals also share their experiences and insights through blogs, podcasts, or interviews.
This initial research will help you understand if this role aligns with your skills and interests, and what it will take to be successful.
Remember, the music industry and concerts are a complex blend of art and logistics, requiring both creativity and practical planning skills.
It is also an industry that often involves working under pressure and unpredictable hours, so it’s important to consider these aspects during your research.
Step 2: Acquire a Basic Education in a Related Field
While not a strict requirement, having a basic education in a related field can be beneficial in pursuing a role as a concert production staff member.
This could be a degree in music, event management, production design, sound engineering, or business.
A bachelor’s degree in music can provide a comprehensive understanding of the industry and the various components that go into a successful concert.
It can also provide useful contacts in the industry through internships or work placements.
Event management courses can teach you how to plan, organize, and manage events of all sizes, including concerts.
You’ll learn about budgeting, marketing, logistics, and more.
Production design or sound engineering can provide the technical skills needed to manage the visual and auditory components of a concert.
You’ll learn about lighting, sound systems, stage design, and more.
A degree in business can also be beneficial, teaching you skills in management, negotiation, marketing, and finance that can be applied to concert production.
In all these courses, internships or work placements are invaluable.
They provide hands-on experience and a chance to network in the industry.
Often, these opportunities can lead to full-time positions.
Remember, while a degree can be beneficial, experience and networking are key in this industry.
Therefore, even without a related degree, gaining experience through volunteering or internships can also set you on the right path.
Step 3: Learn Technical Skills Related to Sound and Lighting
Being part of a concert production team involves a lot of technical know-how, particularly in the areas of sound and lighting.
These two elements are crucial in setting the mood and atmosphere of the concert, and as such, it is essential for you to be well-versed in these areas.
Start by familiarizing yourself with different types of sound and lighting equipment.
Learn how to set them up and handle their controls.
You should also understand the science behind sound and light.
For sound, you may want to learn about acoustics, pitch, tone, and volume.
For lighting, learn about different lighting fixtures, colors, and effects.
Knowledge in controlling the brightness, angle, and focus of lights is also necessary.
You can gain these skills through formal education or certification programs in sound and lighting design or production.
You can also learn on-the-job, starting from lower level positions like assistant or technician and gradually learning from experienced professionals.
Attending workshops, seminars, or short courses can also be beneficial.
Moreover, learning software that is commonly used in concert production, like digital audio workstations (DAWs) and lighting control software, can also give you an edge.
These technical skills will equip you with the expertise needed to create a memorable concert experience for audiences.
Remember, technology is always evolving, so continuous learning and staying updated with the latest equipment and techniques is crucial.
Step 4: Get Knowledge of Health and Safety Regulations
Working in concert production involves dealing with heavy equipment, electrical systems, and large crowds, all of which have inherent safety risks.
It is important to have a solid understanding of health and safety regulations, including those set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States.
You should be familiar with the rules and regulations related to handling and storing equipment, managing crowd control, providing first aid, and dealing with fire safety, among others.
Taking relevant courses in safety management and obtaining certifications in first aid or other safety procedures can be beneficial.
This knowledge will be valuable when implementing safety measures and protocols during a concert, helping to prevent accidents or injuries and ensuring a smooth running event.
Furthermore, understanding these health and safety regulations can also help you during the planning stages of a concert, as you will be able to correctly assess potential venues, ensuring they adhere to the necessary safety standards.
It will also be beneficial when liaising with local authorities and emergency services, ensuring a comprehensive safety plan is in place.
Having this knowledge is not only a crucial part of the job, but it also shows potential employers that you are a responsible and professional candidate, capable of maintaining a safe working environment.
Step 5: Volunteer at Local Events for Hands-on Experience
While studying music production or after you’ve completed your degree, take the opportunity to volunteer at local events, concerts, or music festivals.
This will provide you with practical, real-world experience in concert production.
It will also give you a better understanding of the different roles within concert production staff and allow you to observe professionals in action.
Make sure to volunteer for different roles to see which ones you enjoy most or are best at.
This could be stage management, sound engineering, lighting, or backstage crew.
Volunteering also offers an excellent opportunity to network with industry professionals and make connections that could be beneficial for your future career.
Remember that each event will teach you something new.
You’ll learn how to solve problems on the spot and adapt quickly to changing situations, which are crucial skills in concert production.
Always be proactive, ask questions, and show enthusiasm.
This will show potential employers your dedication and commitment to the field.
Step 6: Take Courses in Event Management
After gaining some hands-on experience, it’s beneficial to take courses in event management.
These courses will help you understand the nitty-gritty of event planning, organization, budgeting, and logistics.
They can also equip you with the necessary tools to handle unexpected situations that could occur during a concert.
These courses will cover areas like crowd control, safety regulations, coordinating with various departments such as lighting, sound, staging, and security, and managing contracts with artists and vendors.
Some courses might also touch on marketing and public relations as these are crucial components of successful event management.
By learning about these areas, you will gain a more holistic view of the concert production process, which can make you more effective in your role.
You can find these courses in local community colleges, universities, or online platforms.
Some event management courses may also offer certification upon completion, which could enhance your credibility in the field.
Remember, the goal is not just to learn the theory but also to apply these skills in practical scenarios.
So, choose courses that offer opportunities for hands-on learning or internships.
This will help you gain practical experience and connect with professionals in the industry.
Step 7: Network with Industry Professionals
In the music industry, who you know can be just as important as what you know.
Networking with industry professionals can open doors to job opportunities that you may not have found otherwise.
Attend industry events, such as music festivals, conferences, and concerts, where you can meet and mingle with concert producers, tour managers, sound engineers, and other professionals in the field.
Joining professional organizations such as the Live Events Association or Event Production Manager Association can also be beneficial.
These organizations can provide networking opportunities, as well as educational resources and professional development programs.
Don’t be shy about reaching out to people you meet at these events or through these organizations.
Offer to buy them coffee or lunch, and ask them about their experiences in the industry.
This will not only help you to make connections, but also give you insight into the realities of working in concert production.
Furthermore, creating an online presence through websites like LinkedIn can help you connect with industry professionals across the globe.
Use this platform to showcase your skills, experiences, and accomplishments in concert production.
Remember to be genuine and respectful in all your interactions.
Building a strong professional network is about fostering mutual support and respect, not just about asking for job opportunities.
Step 8: Gain Experience with Internships or Entry-Level Positions
Starting a career as a concert production staff member will require hands-on experience that can typically be gained through internships or entry-level positions within the industry.
This can provide a practical understanding of the intricate workings of the field and expose you to the multitude of tasks involved in concert production.
Internships are a great way to get a foot in the door.
They can provide you with the skills and insights necessary to understand the industry better.
There are often opportunities in concert venues, music festivals, radio stations, or with touring artists.
They give you a taste of what to expect and can provide a network of contacts that will be useful as you progress in your career.
Entry-level positions also provide invaluable experience.
Roles such as stage crew, sound technicians, or lighting technicians, though not glamorous, are critical to the smooth running of any concert.
Starting in such roles can give you a deep understanding of the technical elements of concert production, and there are often opportunities to move up within the organization or industry.
Regardless of the path you choose, be prepared to work long and often irregular hours, as concerts and related events can occur at any time and on any day.
This is part of the reality of working in concert production.
It requires dedication and passion, but the rewards can be immense.
Be sure to stay curious and eager to learn, as the industry is dynamic and always evolving.
Step 9: Develop Strong Organizational and Communication Skills
Working in concert production requires a high level of organization and strong communication skills.
As part of the production staff, you will have to coordinate with multiple teams, track many details, and handle last-minute changes or crises.
It’s crucial to develop these skills to manage all the moving parts and ensure the success of the concert.
In terms of organizational skills, you need to be adept at planning, prioritizing, and multitasking.
Understanding the importance of time management is also necessary, as meeting deadlines is critical in this industry.
You might also need to handle various logistics, such as arranging transport, setting up equipment, managing staff schedules, and coordinating with vendors.
Therefore, having a systematic approach to work can help ensure that everything is in place and ready for the concert.
Communication skills are equally important in concert production.
You will need to communicate effectively with everyone involved in the concert, from the artists to the technical staff, vendors, security, and the venue management.
This involves not only clear verbal and written communication but also listening and negotiation skills.
It’s vital to build relationships and foster a collaborative environment where everyone feels heard and valued.
You may want to consider taking courses or workshops on project management, time management, and effective communication to help you develop these skills.
Volunteering or interning for concerts and events can also provide practical, hands-on experience.
It’s also advisable to learn from experienced professionals in the field, as they can provide valuable insights and advice.
Step 10: Stay Updated with Latest Technology and Trends in Concert Production
In the dynamic field of concert production, it is essential to stay updated with the latest technology and trends.
This not only includes advancements in sound, lighting, and stage design technology but also emerging trends in audience engagement, marketing strategies, and even virtual and augmented reality experiences.
Getting familiar with the latest audio-visual equipment, software, and digital platforms can make a significant difference in the quality and efficiency of concert production.
This might involve learning new software for sound mixing or understanding the latest in stage lighting technology.
Moreover, staying informed about the latest trends in concert production can give you an edge over your competition.
This could range from innovative promotional strategies to the latest in eco-friendly concert production practices.
Participating in industry-related seminars, webinars, and workshops can provide valuable insights into emerging trends and technologies.
Subscribing to industry publications and following influential people in the concert production field on social media can also help you stay in the loop.
Remember, the concert production industry is ever-evolving, and staying updated with the latest trends and technology can help you deliver unforgettable experiences to concertgoers, making you a valuable asset in the concert production team.
Step 11: Build a Portfolio of Your Work
Building a portfolio is a critical step in solidifying your position as a concert production staff member.
This portfolio will serve as a professional record of your experience, skills, and achievements in the field of concert production.
Start by including any previous work you have done in concert production, even if it was a small-scale event or a voluntary work.
This can range from the concerts you have produced or co-produced, events you have managed, or any related roles you have played in the production process.
Make sure to detail the responsibilities you held in those events, the challenges you faced and how you addressed them, and the successes of the events.
This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills, leadership abilities, and your competence in carrying out production tasks under pressure.
Also, remember to include any technical skills you have acquired, such as sound engineering, lighting design, stage management, and logistics planning.
If you have any certifications or courses related to concert production, ensure to add these to your portfolio as well.
Visual documentation is also crucial.
Include photographs or videos of the concerts you’ve worked on to provide a clear picture of your work.
This will not only make your portfolio more engaging but also provide concrete proof of your capabilities.
Lastly, always remember to update your portfolio regularly with your latest works.
This will keep it relevant and showcase your continuous growth and development in the field.
A well-rounded and updated portfolio can open doors to more opportunities in the concert production industry.
Step 12: Apply for Concert Production Jobs
After gaining the necessary experience, education, and skills, you are ready to apply for concert production jobs.
Whether it’s a position as a stage manager, sound engineer, production manager, or other roles within the concert production crew, ensure you tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences for each specific role you apply for.
Utilize job search engines, online music industry job boards, and networking events to find available positions.
It is also beneficial to leverage relationships you might have built while volunteering, interning, or working part-time in the industry.
When you apply, make sure you present a portfolio or list of concerts or events you have worked on, detailing your roles and the skills you used and gained.
This will provide employers with a tangible demonstration of what you’re capable of.
Remember, the concert production industry can be competitive.
Therefore, persistence and resilience are crucial.
Keep building your skills, gaining experience, and networking with professionals in the field.
Every concert or event you work on increases your visibility within the industry and brings you one step closer to your dream job.
Concert Production Staff Roles and Responsibilities
Concert Production Staff are essential to the successful planning, organization, and execution of live music events.
They collaborate with various teams and professionals to ensure a seamless and enjoyable concert experience for both performers and audiences.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Event Planning and Organization
- Work with event promoters and artists to plan and coordinate concerts.
- Create event schedules, including load-in, sound checks, performance times, and load-out.
- Secure necessary permits and coordinate with venue staff and local authorities.
Technical Production
- Oversee the setup, operation, and breakdown of sound, lighting, and stage equipment.
- Ensure the quality of audio and visual elements meets artist and audience expectations.
- Coordinate with sound and lighting engineers to troubleshoot any technical issues.
Stage Management
- Manage stage crew and ensure efficient changeover between acts.
- Ensure all stage elements are safe and comply with regulations.
- Communicate with performers about stage layout and set times.
Safety and Security
- Work with security personnel to create a safe environment for artists and audience.
- Coordinate emergency procedures and responses.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Artist Relations
- Liaise with artists and their management to fulfill riders and contractual obligations.
- Coordinate artist arrival, accommodation, and transportation.
- Address any concerns or requests from artists and their teams.
Venue Coordination
- Communicate with venue staff to ensure smooth operations on the day of the concert.
- Coordinate with venue’s cleaning crew for cleanup after the concert.
- Negotiate contracts and agreements with venue owners and operators.
Vendor Management
- Coordinate with vendors for food, merchandise, and other services.
- Negotiate contracts and manage payments for vendors.
- Ensure vendor compliance with venue and event policies.
Communication
- Maintain clear lines of communication with all parties involved in the concert.
- Provide updates and information to concert-goers as necessary.
- Handle and resolve any disputes or conflicts that may arise.
Budget Management
- Create and manage event budgets.
- Monitor expenses and make necessary adjustments to stay within budget.
- Ensure all financial obligations are met in a timely manner.
Post-Event Evaluation
- Analyze event performance and gather feedback from artists, attendees, and crew.
- Identify areas of improvement for future events.
- Document lessons learned and implement changes in future event planning.
What Does a Concert Production Staff Do?
Concert Production Staff are integral to the entertainment industry, specifically in the live music events segment.
They work for concert venues, music festivals, or event management companies and are often seen bustling behind the scenes to ensure a smooth and successful concert.
Their main tasks involve planning and coordinating all the technical aspects of a concert.
This includes managing sound systems, lighting setups, video production, stage design, and ensuring all these elements are in harmony with the artist’s performance.
They work closely with artists, tour managers, and audio engineers to understand the specific requirements for each concert.
They are responsible for setting up the stage, performing sound checks, and making sure the lighting suits the mood of the performance.
During the concert, they monitor the technical equipment to ensure everything runs seamlessly.
They may also be responsible for troubleshooting any technical issues that arise during the performance.
In addition, Concert Production Staff may oversee the logistics of the concert such as coordinating with security teams, managing crowd control, and ensuring the concert adheres to safety standards.
After the concert, they are usually in charge of breaking down the stage and equipment, ensuring the venue is left in an acceptable condition.
Their ultimate goal is to create an unforgettable experience for concert-goers while keeping the artist’s vision and safety in mind.
Essential Concert Production Staff Skills
- Communication: The concert production staff interacts with various stakeholders like performers, event managers, and technical staff. Effective communication is crucial to ensure smooth operations and address any concerns promptly.
- Technical Knowledge: A deep understanding of sound systems, lighting equipment, and stage setups is necessary. This includes knowledge of the latest technology and the ability to troubleshoot issues.
- Event Planning: Concerts need careful planning and execution. This requires skills in organizing, scheduling, and coordinating different elements of the event.
- Problem Solving: Concerts can be unpredictable, and problems can arise at any moment. The ability to think on one’s feet and find quick solutions is essential.
- Teamwork: Concert production involves a team of people working together. The ability to collaborate effectively and maintain a harmonious work environment is crucial.
- Creativity: Each concert is unique and requires a creative approach to stage design, lighting, and sound. Creativity helps in delivering a memorable experience to the audience.
- Project Management: Managing a concert involves overseeing multiple tasks simultaneously. Project management skills ensure that all elements are completed on time and within budget.
- Health and Safety: A concert production staff must be aware of safety procedures and regulations to ensure the wellbeing of performers and attendees.
- Physical Stamina: Setting up and breaking down concert equipment requires physical strength and endurance. The ability to work long hours in potentially strenuous conditions is necessary.
- Attention to Detail: Concert production involves intricate technical setups. Paying close attention to detail is essential to prevent mistakes and ensure the highest quality of production.
- Negotiation: Dealing with vendors and contractors often involves negotiation. Effective negotiation skills can help secure better deals and services.
- Adaptability: Concert environments can change rapidly, and production staff need to be able to adapt quickly to ensure smooth operations.
- Time Management: Concerts run on tight schedules, and delays can lead to significant issues. Effective time management skills help ensure that all tasks are completed on schedule.
- Customer Service: Concert production staff often interact directly with attendees, providing assistance or addressing concerns. Excellent customer service skills contribute to a positive overall concert experience.
- Software Proficiency: Familiarity with concert production software, like event management or audiovisual editing tools, is beneficial for managing and executing events effectively.
Concert Production Staff Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Production Assistant
Your journey typically begins as a Production Assistant.
This role allows you to learn the ropes of concert production, including stage setup, sound and lighting equipment setup, and coordination.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Learn Continuously: Understand the intricacies of concert production, from stage management to sound engineering.
- Seek Mentorship: Learn from senior production staff and technicians to expand your knowledge.
- Responsibility: Take your tasks seriously, showing reliability and commitment.
The Ascent: Stage Manager/Technician
As you gain more experience and a deeper understanding of concert production, you can progress to the role of Stage Manager or Technician.
In this role, you’ll have a more hands-on approach to ensuring that the concert goes smoothly.
Here’s how to thrive in this stage:
- Problem Solving: Develop strong troubleshooting skills to quickly and effectively resolve any technical issues.
- Teamwork: Work well with other production staff, performers, and crew members to ensure a successful concert.
- Attention to Detail: Monitor all elements of the concert, from sound and lighting to timing and stage transitions.
Reaching New Heights: Production Manager
After proving your abilities as a Stage Manager or Technician, you can move up to the role of Production Manager.
You are responsible for the entire concert production, overseeing all aspects from planning to execution.
To excel as a Production Manager:
- Leadership: Lead your team effectively, ensuring all production staff understand their roles and responsibilities.
- Strategic Planning: Plan and manage all aspects of concert production, including budgeting and scheduling.
- Communication: Maintain clear communication with all parties involved in the concert, from the performers to the venue managers.
Beyond the Horizon: Director of Production
As your career progresses, you may step into the role of Director of Production.
You’ll oversee multiple concert productions, make strategic decisions, and manage a larger team of production staff.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Organizational Skills: Coordinate multiple productions simultaneously, ensuring each is executed to the highest standard.
- Relationship Building: Develop relationships with venues, suppliers, and artists to ensure smooth operations.
- Innovation: Embrace new technologies and methods in concert production to improve efficiency and production quality.
Pinnacle of Success: Executive Producer
At the peak of your career, you may become an Executive Producer, where you’ll be responsible for the overall success of the concert, including financial performance, audience satisfaction, and the overall quality of the concert experience.
At this level, you’ll need to combine your extensive concert production experience with strategic decision-making and management skills.
Concert Production Staff Salary
Entry-Level Concert Production Staff
- Median Salary: $25,000 – $35,000 per year
- Entry-level concert production staff typically have 0-2 years of experience. They may hold a degree or diploma in music, event management, or related fields, or they may have gained experience through internships or volunteering at events.
Mid-Level Concert Production Staff
- Median Salary: $35,000 – $50,000 per year
- Mid-level concert production staff have 2-5 years of experience and take on more complex responsibilities in concert preparation and management, including logistics, stage management, or audiovisuals.
Senior Concert Production Staff
- Median Salary: $50,000 – $75,000 per year
- Senior concert production staff possess 5+ years of experience and are often responsible for managing multiple aspects of the concert production process, from initial planning to the day of the show, coordinating teams, and ensuring a successful event.
Concert Production Manager/ Director
- Median Salary: $75,000 – $110,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve overseeing all aspects of concert production, including budgeting, hiring staff, coordinating with artists, and ensuring safety regulations are met.
VP of Concert Production/ Production Company Owner
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $200,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, a deep understanding of the concert industry, and often involve setting strategies for concert production, managing large-scale events, and negotiating contracts with artists and venues.
Concert Production Staff Work Environment
Concert Production Staff often work in a variety of live event venues including concert halls, stadiums, arenas, and outdoor festival grounds.
Their work environment is dynamic, often changing from one day to the next as they move from venue to venue.
The work schedule can be irregular, often requiring evening, weekend, and holiday work.
They may also need to travel frequently, depending on the tour schedule of the concert or event they are managing.
The work can be physically demanding, as it may involve setting up and tearing down staging, sound, and lighting equipment.
The concert production staff work environment is typically fast-paced and high-pressure, requiring quick problem-solving skills, adaptability, and excellent communication among team members.
Depending on the scale of the event, the staff may be part of a large team, working under the direction of production managers and alongside sound engineers, lighting technicians, stagehands and other professionals in the live event industry.
FAQs About Becoming a Concert Production Staff
What qualifications do I need to become a Concert Production Staff?
Although there are no formal educational requirements to become a Concert Production Staff, it is beneficial to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Knowledge in areas like music, sound engineering, or stage management can be an advantage.
Practical experience is highly valued in this field, which can be gained through volunteer work at local concerts, internships, or part-time jobs in event management.
Soft skills such as strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are also important.
How can I gain experience in concert production?
One of the best ways to gain experience in concert production is by volunteering or interning at local concerts, festivals, or theaters.
This allows you to learn the ropes, network with industry professionals, and potentially open up job opportunities.
You may also consider studying event management or a related field, which often includes practical training components.
Is working as a Concert Production Staff physically demanding?
Yes, working as a Concert Production Staff can be physically demanding.
The job often involves long hours, heavy lifting, and being on your feet for extended periods.
However, it can also be rewarding as you get to be part of creating live music experiences for audiences.
What skills are important for a Concert Production Staff?
Important skills for a Concert Production Staff include strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities.
You should be able to handle high-pressure situations, as you’ll often be working under tight timelines and dealing with unexpected challenges.
Technical skills, such as sound engineering or stage management, can also be beneficial depending on your specific role.
What are the career prospects for a Concert Production Staff?
Career prospects for Concert Production Staff can be quite promising, especially if you’re flexible and willing to travel.
With experience, you can move into roles such as Stage Manager, Tour Manager, or Production Manager.
There’s also the possibility to branch out into other areas of the music industry, such as artist management or record label work.
The growth of music festivals and live events in recent years has also created more job opportunities in this field.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Choosing to pursue a career as a concert production staff is no small task, but it’s undoubtedly thrilling.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and determination, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in the music industry.
Remember, the journey may be tough, but the opportunities are boundless. Your expertise could lead to the production of the next unforgettable concert that changes how we experience music and entertainment.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in learning. Connect with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop seeking excellence in your craft.
Because the world is waiting for what you can produce.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or enhancing your career in concert production, look no further than our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to offer tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
When Work Means War: Jobs That Battle with Danger Every Day
AI’s Limitations: Professions Where Humans Are Irreplaceable
The Happy Hustle: Careers That Bring Joy and Paychecks