Catriona Price flagged up SoFar Sounds to me the other day. It’s an opportunity to be part of a world wide organisation of online shows. Here is their FAQ. This is Catriona (Twelfth Day’s) video for SoFar.
WHAT IS SOFAR SOUNDS?
Founded in London in 2010 and now based in over 200 cities around the world, Sofar Sounds is a global network of artists, hosts, and guests, all with the goal of bringing the magic back to live music.
WHAT IS A “SOFAR”?
A Sofar is an intimate event where the best new (upcoming) artists perform in unique spaces to an audience of music lovers.
HOW IS THIS DIFFERENT FROM A NORMAL GIG?
It’s simple: at Sofar Sounds, the music always comes first. People sit, listen, and never talk through the set.
WHAT HAPPENS AT A SOFAR SHOW?
A Sofar will typically feature three acts, no “opener” and no “headliner”. Every lineup is carefully curated to give the audience a diverse show, and each performer is given equal attention.
Guests arrive on time for the first act and stay for the entire show. Events are normally BYOB, so there’s no waiting at the bar. And during the music, there is full attention: no talking, texting, or filming.
Many of our cities have a video crew who records and edits the performances so you can watch them later on our YouTube channel. You can also buy our artists’ merchandise, follow them on social media, and spread the word. Join us in supporting great new music!
WHERE IS THIS GOING ON?
We’re currently active in over 200 cities worldwide! If you can’t see a page for your city, you can contact us to talk about starting up a Sofar team there.
Artists
HOW DO I GET TO PERFORM AT A SOFAR?
We always recommend attending a show first to get an idea of what performing involves. Once you’ve done that, you can send us your music here. It will then go directly to the team of the city in which you want to play. They’ill listen and see if it’s right for them.
WHEN WILL I HEAR BACK?
If your application is successful, you will hear from the local team in a few weeks. Due to the number of applications we receive, and depending on the city, this process may take longer. If you don’t hear from us, your application has been unsuccessful this time, but please resubmit when you have new material!
HOW DO YOU SELECT WHO PLAYS?
We work hard to curate each lineup. All the music is listened to by our diverse and knowledgeable team of reviewers, ensuring that there is no bias. This helps us find the best new music possible!
DOES IT HAVE TO BE MUSIC?
Absolutely not! We like to think outside the box, and some of the best Sofar artists have been spoken word poetry, comedy, and even dance.
WILL I GET PAID?
Yes, in the majority of cities. Sofar offers two forms of payment – either a video or a flat fee, variable by city. You local artist liaison will discuss these options with you prior to your performance.
WHAT KIND OF SETUP WILL I NEED?
Our shows are stripped-back. While this does not necessarily mean “unplugged”, a setup should consider that you’re likely to be performing in someone’s living room. Where possible, we would recommend having unamplified vocals, acoustic instruments, and a minimal backline. If you have any questions, discuss with your city team’s artist liaison.
CAN I TELL PEOPLE I’M PLAYING?
Yes, we have no problem with you announcing that you’re playing. Just make sure you keep the details to a minimum, as secrecy is part of the Sofar experience!