How to write a Press Release for your concert

Anyone who has ever given a concert knows that having enough people in the audience makes a big difference to the performer. Writing an effective press release and knowing where to send it will help get them there.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

How to write a press release for your concert

1. As your header, include contact information like your name, phone, email and if you have one, your fax number. This way if someone in the media wants to find out more information or is interested in writing a short article about your concert, they know how to reach you. Also, if there is more than 1 page to your release, header must include the number of pages (i.e. 1 of 2, 2 of 2) and the concert title.
2. Below your header in big block letters write: "For Immediate Release," either left justified or centered.
3. List the title of your concert. Is it a solo recital, a band or a group of musicians playing together? If you have a catchy name or thematic title, this might draw more attention to your event.
4. List where and when they should show up. Include the day of the week, then month, day and year. Below this write the start time and then location including the address.
5. What is the program of your concert? List the works, composers and a little information about the music you will be performing. Are there any guest performers? Is this event going to raise money for a worthy cause, or will you be performing music you have recently composed? Is there any background information about the composers or performers you can mention? Anything of interest to others should be included.
6. Be sure to end your press release using the pound (#) sign. This is a symbol which is routinely used and will make your release look professional.
7. Send your press release to the calendar editor of every publication in your area. Include neighborhood papers, big city papers and local church and school newsletters. The more you send out, the more people will hear about your concert.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are hoping for a little article about your concert in the paper, try contacting the smaller newspapers by phone. They are always interested in local performers as human interest stories. Don’t be afraid to be politely persistent!
• Be sure to use a font that is easy to read. Make font sizes large enough to be easily readable, like a Times New Roman 14, but not too big. Use a larger font for the title of the concert.
• Editors need to receive your press release at least 4 weeks in advance of your concert. Don’t wait until the last minute to send these out.