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WHAT IS AN ARTIST RIDER? Artist riders are incorporated in performance agreements and set out the various elements needed to enable a sleek, hindrance-free gig. Riders are designed to inform gig organisers about what the artist needs to perform well on-stage and what they need to be comfortable off-stage before and after their performance. The rider is usually split into two parts which are the technical rider and the hospitality rider. Technical Rider The technical rider informs gig organisers what technical equipment, such as instruments and mics, are required for the artist’s gigs. This is very important because all artists, stage managers and musicians have their own equipment preferences. In some cases, a deviation from the technical rider will result in equipment being incompatible with the gig set-up. Good technical riders include the sound and lighting equipment preferences, the stage plan to show where each musician will be placed and where mic stands for singers should be positioned. The venue organisers will provide their event production manager with a copy of the artist’s technical rider. The earlier this is done, the more time they will have to liaise compromises with artists’ sound engineers because some things (such as stage dimensions) cannot be changed. Good technical riders also deal with rehearsals and sound check arrangements. Hospitality Rider The hospitality rider informs gig organisers of what is needed of a non-technical nature to facilitate the gig and to ensure the comfort of the artist. They include flights, accommodation, ground transport, security, backstage passes and other items such as food, refreshments and hygiene products for the artists’ team. Summary The technical and hospitality riders are crucial parts of any performance contract. From an event organiser’s point of view, riders provide a clear insight into expenditure and are an essential budgeting tool. From an artist’s point of view, riders set out the requirements to make event organisers aware of the provisions that need to be in place (alongside performance fees) for event bookings. To book an artists for the Private parties, public, corporate and charity events, product endorsements, theatre, film and television visit us