091 – [#AskRuffini] – Touring, practice, networking and confidence

This is a new series that I will be doing between the interview podcasts called #AskRuffini.  I get a ton of emails, messages, tweets, etc asking all sorts of questions ranging from “How can I practice better?” to “What’s your favorite food?” and everything in between.  Rather than replying to the messages individually I want these answers to benefit everyone in the Drummer’s Resource Community, so I decided to add them to the podcast.

“If something’s important enough, you should try. Even if the probable outcome is failure.” – Elon Musk (Tweet this)

Have Questions?  There are a few ways to submit them:

1. Send a message on the Contact Page or email me: Questions[at]DrummersResource[dot]com
2. Send me a message on Facebook
3. Tweet me and use the hashtag #AskRuffini

And now, the questions:

A lot of people ask me how to get gigs out of their local scene. I know the best way is to network with bands from different areas and also network with their fans. Show swapping is huge everywhere especially for new local acts. Maybe touch on how some of these new bands can obtain gigs in different cities and also how to plan a mini tour of your province/state. A lot of local bands do mini tours as they don’t have the funds, time or fan base to do a national tour and highlighting how to plan on of these mini tours would be vital info for any up and coming bands.

-Steve

I was wondering what is the most effective way to contact people to expand your network? Would cold-calling be more professional rather than an email? Just wondering your opinion

-Ben

I live in an apartment with my wife so practicing set is out of the question. What’re some good practices to do that can build me up on set and gain the confidence needed to put myself out there? One thing I lack is confidence when looking at other drummers who are making things happen with their drumming careers.

-Seth