Business owners network (See the local chamber of commerce).  Bankers network (see the local golf course) Law enforcement officers network (See the Dunkin’ Donuts). As musicians, one of the smartest moves we can make is to network with other musicians.  Don’t consider other bands “competition”, see them as great referral sources.

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When I decided to get back into “the business” after a hiatus of a couple dozen years, I talked with every musician who would listen.  I searched out the ones who were doing the exact style of music that I wanted to do.  They were playing the same venues that I wanted to play in.  I sat in with those bands, I made friends with the members and I’ve solicited their opinions and advice. 

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As I put my own band together I capitalized on the friendships I had built and asked for names of other musicians who may be looking for work.  These were GREAT referrals.  I went back to the venues that I guest performed at and let them know that I had a band that could fill their openings. 

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I’ve built our band’s webpage and devoted a page to “friends of the band and links” which I post other band’s web pages.  No, I do not consider these groups “competition” I consider them friends and comrades.  There is enough work to go around, and when I need someone to fill in some night because my bass player sprained his wrist while playing war games on the paintball course Saturday afternoon before the gig, I have plenty of numbers to call, and the show will still go on.