I was chatting to someone a few years ago about system design. I didn’t know what it was but I was amazed that shops hired people to design the experiences of customers as they enter their places of business. Wikipedia describes system design as “… the process of defining the architecture, components, modules, interfaces, and data for a system to satisfy specified requirements.”
It made me think. What if musicians were to design the experience they gave to the public? What if they decided and discussed in advance what experience a member of the public would get when approaching the CD stall or even when the band sits on the stage and the experience they give to their audience. Some performers do think about this but I guess that most don’t! I don’t… What most of us do is just become comfortable on the stage with our band members, relax a bit and make the audience feel good that way.
So how would I do it? Well starting simple – someone approaching the CD stall wants to feel welcomed. So I might decide to smile, look him / her in the eye and shake their hand. I could then say something nice like “thanks for coming along tonight I really appreciate it – have you any questions?”. This might work or not but I could test it and see if it works.
What about on stage? I could make the small decision to make sure I was smiling and when I chat I look at members of the audience. I could make sure I thank them for coming. I could also try for audience participation – clapping along etc. This is not for everyone of course but every performer could try their own ideas.
It’s all worth thinking about. I’m always interested in hearing your ideas. Any questions contact me!
Simon Thoumire