Now, maybe some “pros” can just step onto a stage (or in my case a patio) and play a perfect show without any advance preparation. Not me. It's a process, and I'm always refining that process to make it easier and result in a better show each time.
I'm always practicing (maybe 1-3 hrs a day on average), I'm learning new songs and finding ways to improve “standards” in my set lists. About a week out from a show I'm deciding if the new stuff can go in. Sometimes (like this coming week) I'll try out new songs at an open mic (Weds, June 11 I'll be at Warner Vineyards with the 8:40 time slot). But prior to that I check my guitar strings. Do they need changed (looking for buildup and oxidation on strings). Do they tune easily (losing tune often is a sure-fire signal that a string change is necessary). If the decision to change strings is yes, that's got to happen at least 3 or 4 days before any show. Strings take a while to fully stretch out and hold a stable tune. String change on a 12 string… plan on an hour and a half and drawing blood at least once.
Also starting about a week out is building a set list. I rarely play the same music in the same order. That's boring for me, and it's boring for you. That might be a 5 day process by the time I'm happy with it. I look to see how I can manage tempo changes to keep a particular mood or vibe. Sometimes I try to match tempo's with what keys the songs are in so I can build a medley (always appreciated). I make sure that songs early in the show won't stress the vocal chords until my voice is fully warmed up. In the same sense, I try to avoid songs late in the show that are going to be hard to do with a tired voice! I look for balance between slow ballads and “rockers”. I even look at the messaging in songs (I've been accused of doing too many sad songs in a row). And, of course, where do you put the new stuff? Oh, and what if there are “requests”. Well, I try to prioritize them…if I can.
My sets are managed by time. Each of my songs have a pretty accurate “Time to finish” so I make sure my sets finish up at the right time to take a break in the show to re-tune, re-hydrate and even sometimes to re-shirt. Some shows (eg 2 hr. shows) may not get a break. Depends on what the venue and I agree upon.
Since I'm practicing most every day I won't tear down the equipment in the music studio until about 24 hrs before the show. That gives me the practice I want/need and a good amount of time to let the fingers “heal up” a little. (Yes all that playing and my fingertips still hurt, even after 58 years of playing guitar). I may pack the car with all the equipment except the guitar. 12Strings are finicky to temperature changes so that doesn't go into the car till I'm ready to drive to the gig. I'll make sure batteries for the wireless gizmos are charged. I'll make sure back up batteries for pre-amps are staged and at the ready.
Day of the show I ponder what to wear (honestly, I do). Will it be hot and humid (3shirt show)? Indoors due to weather? Cold? I have some standard “gig clothes” but there are options…and I don't have a "stylist helping me…as you can tell.
So yeah, it's a process. All in all there's probably 20 to 25 hours of “engagement” before each show that is not actually performance time. It's a labor of love because I know that when I've properly prepared, the best part, the actual show, will be at it's best.
Time to change some strings!
Be nice always and all ways.
Tom