Okay, folks...this is a series of steps I've put together after spending the last 2 decades playing everything from parties to festivals to theaters. Many of you will already know all this, some of you may even have better systems...and that's what thie group is about!

1. Strings- if you're going to change strings before a show, try to do it at least a couple of days beforehand, and play on 'em for a little while sometime before the show. This'll help to curb the "new string blues" that can equal a night spent tuning.

2. Packing- think of the order you want your rig to go onstage, and try to pack your car thusly. It saves a little time, and helps to get your mind in "A game mode" as you leave the house/practice room.

3. Remember your spares, which I covered in the "Gigging Toolbox" thread.

4. Be smart at the show- think about things like where cases will go, make sure somebody's watching the gear at all times, note anybody who seems too interested in any gear and/or band members. We're pretty vulnerable, so we have to be smart.

5. If you play first/alone, the whole band should be at the show with plenty of time for setup and a basic soundcheck. The whole "fashionably late" thing...isn't.

6. Make sure everything's in tune and ready to go well before the lights come up. This also means set lists are easily readable and strategically placed, drinks are already onstage (in safe places, please!), and the singer(s) should have the names of any wait staff scribbled down, so he/she/they can thank the hosting employees by name at least once per set.

7. Remember your job- the moment you decide to play for others, you're an entertainer and your job is to pull people in...and usually to get them drinking. Failing to accomplish either of these things can lead to NOT being asked back...and it's just business.

8. Invite members of other groups to your shows. Being seen around other musicians regularly can open doors, as established bands often need openers for their shows.

9. Having someone that can run a mailing list for the band is a good idea, especially someone that'll jot down suggestions/comments.

10. You know those medium-sized bathroom towels that are the wrong size for anything at home? Get 'em damp, and bring 'em along...after a few hours under stage lights, they feel excellent.

Hey, these are just basics. I invite others to chime in with their pre-gig preperations, and we'll all get smarter....