The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #77024 Message #1369700
Posted By: GUEST,maryrrf
02-Jan-05 - 07:58 PM
Thread Name: Touring in UK
Subject: RE: Touring in UK
I think you should line up your gigs and fees BEFORE you go, and at this point you're starting pretty late for summer gigs. Many folk clubs and festivals book quite a bit in advance. Many places will throw in accomodation as part of your fee and sometimes that will mean being put up at someones house, where you'll be hospitably treated and fed and watered. Transportation could be a problem. There are buses and trains but they aren't cheap and the schedules might not coincide with your gig times - also it's very possible the venue won't be near a train station and it can be difficult getting into a strange place and figuring out local buses. You would probably need a car and if that is the case it would be very hard to cover your costs, much less make any money. Car rental is expensive and gas/petrol is REALLY EXPENSIVE, as is food. As a matter of fact you'll find the UK very high priced especially with the dollar being at one of it's lowest points in history. Camping or hostels are the cheapest lodging solution, with camping being the cheapest - but you've got to have gear - a tent, small campstove, etc. I'm assuming you play folk music are are looking to get booked in folk clubs, festivals, etc. I did this in October/November 2003 in Scotland and certainly didn't clear any money but covered some of my costs for the trip and had loads of fun, met great people and would do it again in a heartbeat. But I did have to line everything up several months in advance. I wouldn't just go and assume you'll get gigs. Good luck !