How to Create a Benefit Concert Series

Planning Your Concerts

1. Find a cause that you are passionate about. You won't be able to put in the required work or inspire others to help you if you don't fully believe in what you are doing.

2. Build a team of like-minded people. Realize that you can't do this on your own. It's not necessary to build a large team, but you'll need at least a few more people who share your enthusiasm for the cause.

   1. If you can, try to recruit friends or acquaintances with useful skills or connections. For example, if you know someone with ties to the local music scene, be sure to have them tap in to that. Other useful attributes might include advertising skill and ties to local companies and organizations.

3. Choose dates and times. Check the local papers to make sure that your events aren't on dates where a lot of other events are scheduled. Be sure to give your team plenty of time to organize. You should begin working on the details of your event at least two months in advance.

4. Set a price. Find out what other organizations charge for similar events in your area. Survey your colleagues and find out how much they'd want to pay.

5. Locate sponsors. Find businesses, organizations, or charities to help with funding and supplying your events. Support from sponsors can include everything from simply donating to your cause to providing food or refreshments at the event. This is a win-win; the sponsor will gain publicity and you'll gain their endorsement and whatever support they provide.

6. Create a tentative budget. Keep in mind that you'll have to spend money to raise money. This is mainly important for knowing how much you'll be able to spend on performers or on their stage setups if they are willing to perform free of charge. Conservatively estimate your ticket sales and sponsor donations and go from there.^[1]

7. Find artists or bands to perform. This is the most important part of any concert, but also the most difficult to organize. You don't need to (and likely won't be able to) book anyone famous. Local musicians are always looking to market themselves and will be able to pull in more attendees to your concert.

   1. Finding bands can be hard but is not impossible with the right connections. Does a sponsor or a member of your cause have connections with a band? Do you have friends in the music industry or do you know someone who runs a music venue? Use your contacts to their fullest extent.
   2. If you can't find bands through your contacts, it's time to research and cold call. Research can be done through the local papers and the Internet. Make calls to the managers of the performing acts you want. See if you can reach a deal. Many artists will perform at a lower rate or for free for charity.
   3. Consider booking several different types of acts for your concerts to attract a variety of supporters. Guests that don't often listen to rock music may skip that concert but join you if you book an R&B artist for the next show. Variety may also help you appeal to different sponsors.

8. Book your venues. Make sure your venues are easily accessible and have enough room for your expected number of concert-goers. Price will obviously be an issue here. Consider using a local park or seeking out venues that offer lower rates for charitable events. Be sure to also rent lighting equipment and everything else the bands need if they are not willing to provide it.