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Mini-Concert/
Showcase PerformancE
HOW DOES IT WORK?
A mini-concert is designed for students to perform onstage with an artist. This is an audience-attended event and includes performances by both students and the artist, including: solos, duets, and group numbers. Think of it like your performers’ showcase that features an artist as a special guest. Typically, this works in conjunction with a masterclass or workshop -- the artist works with students during the day and then performs with them in the concert event that night. This option is customizable and some examples include: annual fundraiser concert, a special performance before the opening night of your musical, a special event for your theatre, holiday concert, and more.
Typical length is anywhere between 1 – 2 hours. Intermission optional.
Set list should be comprised of solos, duets, group numbers, by students/ local performers. We suggest layering the set to feature the artist intermittently throughout the evening.
Artist songs vary person-to-person. Typically, artists sing 1-3 songs of their choice, plus a large group finale with the entire cast. Some artists may sing more/ less.
HOW DO WE PREPARE?
In preparing for a concert performance, students/ performers should be as rehearsed and prepared as possible, before the artist arrives.
Establish a set list as far in advance as possible. Make recordings and sheet music available to students so that they know exactly what to rehearse.
In some cases, artists will have the opportunity to work with performers on their specific material before the concert performance.
If the concert is in conjunction with a workshop for your musical and/ or you have an upcoming production, use the event to showcase songs from that show. Keep the number of songs from any one musical to (3) or less (per show), in accordance with licensing rules.
ACCOMPANIMENT
Accompaniment should reflect the best capability of the theatre for purposes of performance quality. This may include live piano accompaniment, band, orchestra, or tracks.
In general, live accompaniment is preferred for the entire event. Artists almost always use a live accompanist when performing, and piano-only accompaniment is the most common choice for performances. However, tracks are permitted, as well.
You may also choose to have a mix of live piano accompaniment for some songs and tracks for others. (i.e. Artist songs with live piano, student songs on tracks, etc.).
You may elect to have a band. Live bands can add incredible quality to a performance. In some cases, you may partner with the theatre/ school band/ orchestra. When using a band or large group of live musicians, be sure that the music is rehearsed diligently and is performance-ready well before the artist arrives.
TECHNICAL SETUP
In general, the technical requirements for mini-concerts are minimal and vary based on theatre/ school, in accordance with keeping an educational element and accessibility.
Microphone for the artist. Handheld, either wired or wireless. Please have a microphone stand available, too, if needed.
Community performers/ students may use any kind of microphones you choose.
Soundcheck. Artist will need a small soundcheck with accompanist, band, microphone, etc. to run songs before the evening’s performance.