November 27, 2024

How to Become a Tour Manager

Embark on the journey to become a Tour Manager, the logistical genius orchestrating seamless concert tours. From coordinating schedules to ensuring smooth operations, a Tour Manager plays a crucial role in the success of live music events.

In this comprehensive guide on How to become a Tour Manager, we delve into the intricacies of this career path, exploring the diverse opportunities, the rewarding Careers in Tour Manager, and the insights into Tour Manager Salary Australia.

Introduction to Becoming a Tour Manager

The role of a Tour Manager is multifaceted, involving a blend of strategic planning and on-the-ground execution. As the person responsible for the smooth running of a concert tour, you'll manage the intricate details that come with live music events. This includes organising travel arrangements, booking venues, negotiating contracts, and handling logistics.

You'll also ensure the well-being of the touring party, often dealing with unexpected challenges on the road. Strong communication skills are vital, as you'll be the central point of contact between artists, venue managers, promoters, and crew members.

Essentially, a Tour Manager ensures that every aspect of the tour is synchronised, from the lights going up to the final encore, making it a critical role in the live music industry.

How to Become a Tour Manager in Australia

To become a Tour Manager in Australia, start by building a strong event management foundation and gain music industry experience. Familiarise yourself with the nuances of live shows by volunteering at local gigs or working with small bands. Formal education, such as a diploma or degree in music business or event management, can be beneficial which we cover in further detail below.

Networking is key; connect with industry professionals and seek mentorship opportunities. Hands-on experience is crucial, so consider starting with smaller roles within tour crews or production teams to understand the workflow of a concert tour.

Stay informed about the Australian music scene, as it can differ from international markets. Lastly, be prepared to start from the bottom and work your way up, demonstrating your ability to handle increasing responsibility over time.

Exploring Careers in Tour Management

The career path of a Tour Manager can be as varied as the music industry itself. Many start their journey working in related fields such as sound engineering, stage management, or event promotion. These roles provide invaluable experience and insight into live event production. As you progress, you might work as a Roadie, Merchandiser, or Assistant Tour Manager, where you can learn the ropes of touring logistics. With time and experience, you can advance to a Tour Manager position, overseeing larger tours and more complex itineraries.

The ultimate goal for many is to manage world tours for high-profile artists. The career path is not linear and requires adaptability, a knack for problem-solving, and strong interpersonal skills. Success as a Tour Manager often comes down to a blend of experience, tenacity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Tour Manager Salary Australia: What to Expect

In Australia, a Tour Manager's salary can vary widely based on factors such as experience, the tour's size, and the artist's prominence. Entry-level Tour Managers might start on a modest income, but their earning potential increases as they build expertise and a solid reputation.

On average, Tour Managers can expect to earn between AUD $55,000 and AUD $120,000 per year. For top-tier managers working with well-known artists, salaries can go well beyond this range. In addition to the base salary, many Tour Managers receive bonuses for successful tours.

It's important to note that the job often entails long hours and extensive travel, which can influence the overall compensation package.

The Life of a Tour Manager

A day in the life of a Tour Manager is diverse and fast-paced. It starts early, often with a review of the day's schedule and checking in with the tour crew. There's coordination with venue staff about load-in times, sound checks, and setlists.

Throughout the day, the Tour Manager troubleshoots any logistical issues, from travel delays to equipment challenges. They ensure that artists have everything they need and that the venue is prepared for the evening's event. They liaise with promoters and local staff, manage the financial aspects like settling with the box office, and maintain the tour budget.

After the show, the Tour Manager oversees the pack-down and prepares for transport to the next location. It's a role that requires constant attention to detail, the ability to multitask, and a steady hand to manage the unexpected.

The Challenges and Rewards of Being a Tour Manager

Being a Tour Manager comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. You're often the first to arrive and the last to leave, putting in long hours to ensure every detail is accounted for. The pressure can be intense, with the success of the tour resting on your shoulders. Unforeseen issues, like weather disruptions, equipment malfunctions, or travel hiccups, require quick thinking and effective problem-solving.

Despite the challenges, the rewards are significant. You get to travel, meet new people, and experience the thrill of live music events from the frontlines. Seeing a concert come together smoothly because of your efforts is a profound sense of accomplishment. For those passionate about music and live events, the highs and lows all contribute to a fulfilling and dynamic career. The relationships built and the memories created often last a lifetime.

Industri Education: Your Pathway to Becoming a Tour Manager

At Industri Education, our primary focus is to empower you with the knowledge and skills required to build a successful career in the live music industry. Whether you're just starting on your journey or looking to advance your career, our tailored courses offer a comprehensive learning experience designed to transform enthusiasts into professionals.

We offer two courses which can lead to a career in Tour Management;

Live Sound Production - Associate Degree

Our Live Sound Production course is an associate degree program that provides a comprehensive understanding of live sound technologies and techniques. Over the span of two years, students immerse themselves in practical, hands-on learning to navigate the complexities of live sound production.

Here's what you can expect:

  • Course Duration: It's a 2-year full-time course, perfect for those who want to dive deep into the world of live sound.
  • Curriculum: The course curriculum includes a mix of theoretical learning and practical hands-on experience. Key modules cover areas such as Stage Management, Sound Reinforcement, Audio Engineering, Lighting Design, and Production Management.
  • Practical Experience: We believe in learning by doing. Throughout the course, you'll get to work with real bands at gigs, music festivals, and live events, offering real-world experience right from the start.
  • Career Prospects: This course can lead to a rewarding career in Tour Management. It provides the technical knowledge and skills needed to manage live sound at a concert, making you a valuable asset for any tour crew.

Live Music Business - Associate Degree

Our Live Music Business course is an associate degree program designed to equip you with the business acumen and strategic knowledge crucial to managing successful live music events. Spanning over two years, this program introduces you to the business side of the music industry, providing a unique blend of theory and real-world practice.

Here's what you can expect:

  • Course Duration: This is a two-year full-time course designed for those keen to enter the business side of the live music industry.
  • Curriculum: The curriculum is a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical exposure. Key modules include Music Business, Event Management, Music Marketing, Artist & Repertoire (A&R), and Legal Aspects of the Music Industry.
  • Practical Experience: We firmly believe in the power of hands-on training. The course provides ample opportunities for you to intern at music businesses, promoting gigs, managing artists, and showcasing your skills.
  • Career Prospects: Besides Tour Management, this course opens up several other career paths within the music industry. You can explore roles such as Booking Agent, A&R Manager, and Label Manager.

Get a Copy of Our Course Guide

Are you eager to hit the ground running and start orchestrating your future in Tour Management?

Grab our comprehensive Course Guide now, packed with all the details you need to chart your course in the live music industry. You can also join us on Open Day for your chance to chat to us and learn more.

More news