A booking contract allows a venue to state the rules under which a band is to provide a performance and the rules under which both parties must act. These rules may include, but are not limited to, promotion, ticketing, production, payment, hospitality riders. The booking contract is critical in that it allows both the venue and the band to know exactly what is required of them when putting on a performance. The venue can state what it expects from the band and likewise the band can stipulate their requirements. This ensures that both parties are aware of the other’s expectations. Essentially, your booking contract is will be there to minimise potential conflict over how the performance should progress. A booking contract should be entered into well in advance of each gig. This allows time for both parties to negotiate the terms of the gig and understand their responsibilities prior to, during and after the performance.