I am a performing songwriter but I'm still fairly new to performing. So far I've only done coffee houses and small open mics doing maybe a song or two, but I'm currently preparing myself to take it to the next level by setting up a full performance set.
I've already recruited the musicians and know of a few good venues, the only issue I'm having right now is trying to decide the order to perform my songs.
Before I only did 2 songs, so I would usually do a more up tempo song first to get everyone awake and then a more slow dramatic song at the end. Now I have about 7 songs I could do (one of them being a cover) and I have no idea what to do.
I understand there has to be a rythm in a performance; it's more than just getting on stage and going through your entire catalog of music. But is there some kind of formula that could help me figure out this small yet crucial detail? Been doing this a long time and usually I do three one hour sets.
If you are going to do just one set (like at a venue where you are one of several bands on the bill) you want to grab them RIGHT AWAY.
You put your bouciest upbeat song first. and your Best memorable tune last.
After you open with a strong bouncy number, you want to follow up with another upbeat one - one that maintains attention. Then you can get into the more introspective stuff in the middle of the set. You want a good "wake 'em up" number next-to-last to lead into the final tune. | 