Manual For Artists For Online Gigs

In the course of history, art is the greatest discovery of mankind. Creativity in the pure and undiluted form is the true definition of Art. It is an important part of our life as it helps us reflect our own feelings. Its unfortunate we can't meet with artists at gatherings and concerts to add hope in times of despair. But does that mean we let art away from our lives? Most certainly not! We've come up with the best possible solution to keeping the magic of music intact while maintaining social distance- going completely online! Online gigs are very new to all of us and it requires up-to-the-minute techniques. This is an informative article which includes everything that needs to be taken care for an online gig from the artist's end.

If you're not in the mood to read the whole article, our friend Gaurav Kadu, a singersong writer, has made this video which should help you out.

https://youtu.be/ySI0iELq6T0

VC: Gaurav Kadu

Live Streaming Set-up

Take a deep breath. We understand this is new and might sound overwhelming. We assure you the requirements are very simple and very specific. So you just have to follow the guidelines below as it is. What we need to remember is that what's most convenient might not be the best choice. As tempting as using a smartphone for live streaming might be, we insist you use your laptop/ desktop for better optimization. The basics are

• Device to live stream from, i.e, your desktop

• A good camera and mic

• Music production equipment

• Live streaming space which is the Zoom app

Thorough preparation is the key to success. So stay with us. We're in this together, okay?

Sound

Audio and visual quality is of utmost importance, that goes without saying. It shall turn out good to use an external microphone rather than your laptop's in-built one. This external mic can be connected to your instrument as well as to your device via a sound card.

Video

A good camera is a must to circumvent the possibilities of the video being blurry or distorted in any way. This is compulsorily complimented by proper lighting. The right position would be you sitting against the light which will aid to a clear view of the artist's aura. The ambiance (performance space) should be slightly decorative. It can be as simple as just adding mono-coloured fairy-lights. Play with colours if you like, use your creative freedom to the fullest! A shabby, messy or gaudy background is distracting for the audience so you may want to avoid that. Please refer to our in-person gatherings' pictures to get a hang of the vibe we are expecting.

Artists are mandated to upload a video of their performance space for the same reasons. Here’s an example-

We highly insist the artists refrain from using mobile phones for gigs. Online shows require desktop connections to deliver best possible quality. That’s what we all want, right?

Vibe

The artist should be communicative and engaging. Artists need to confirm with the audience if they're audible and visible properly 4x more frequently than they would whilst and in-person gig. The ambiance plays a big role in creating the correct vibe. Other than that, looks are important. Not only does a good look attract more viewers, but it also emphasizes the level of your commitment and respect. Therefore, make sure you look the way you would like to present yourself to the world.

Internet

Artists are required to have 800kbps/1.0Mbps (up/down) for high quality video. You can read more about optimum internet speed requirements for Zoom calls and make arrangements accordingly. Make sure to check your internet connection speed well in advance. It is recommended that LAN/ WAN port which is connected to your WiFi, is rather connected to your laptop in order to avoid any lagging.

Technical Help

If you're stuck or confused, don't worry. Contact the technical team at +91 88288 81117 between 11:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. on weekdays.