Social Media for Musicians

As musicians, we have a lot of stuff to do. We have to practice, look for gigs, maybe teach or attend lessons. Then there are other, non-music parts of life that we have to attend to. Social media has recently become one of those non-music activities that can really eat up time.

I am not only a musician, but I enjoy creating content, like blog posts and social media posts, for other musicians. Social media can be difficult to learn and master, but there are a few things that any musician can do to better understand social media and use it to their advantage.

Here are a few tips that I have that will help you get started with using social media for your music.

But first, this post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy to learn more!

Rework Your Personal Profiles

This is simple, but making a few changes to your profile photo, biography, and other information can vastly improve how your profile looks. Whether you use Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, you should have a professional profile.

Upload a photo of yourself with good lighting, maybe even with your instrument. This will look a lot more professional and appealing than a low lit, mirror selfie taken at one in the morning.

Update your biography to reflect your musical experience or your current work. Instead of saying something like “I love cheese and wine” try “I play piano, and I love helping others.” This second statement commands more attention and respect, and it shows potential clients or students that you are ready to work.

Also, don’t forget to make your profile (at least for Instagram or Twitter) open to the public. Then you can grow your following and market yourself.

Create a Business Profile or Page

If you are serious about using social media for your career, create a Facebook page or turn your Instagram or Twitter into a business account. You will be able to use social advertising and provide more information on how people can contact you.

With Facebook, it is much easier to have a page where people can follow you instead of using your personal profile. You are not allowed to create a second Facebook account, so creating a page to reach more than your inner circle is best.

For Instagram, you can add your email or physical address and even a phone number. You can also look at deeper statistics to learn more about what works and what doesn’t.

Be Mindful About Your Posts

If you want to use social media in a professional way, you have to keep in mind how your posts will come across to followers. Your public account could be seen by anyone from a prospective client to a parent looking to put their child in music lessons.

Your appearance counts. You don’t need to be fake, but you should be professional and genuine when you post. Your public profile is not the place to rant about politics or how your day sucked.

Keep in mind the audience you are trying to attract, and post content they want to see. It is not always easy, but posting for your audience will get you farther than posting for yourself.

Embrace Video

Social media is a great way to connect with others, and video is one more way to do that. Especially with music, video can accomplish a lot more than just text and photos. You can use video to promote an upcoming concert or album release. Videos can be put toward your online portfolio.

You can establish yourself as a musical expert through video. No matter how much you post about how you loved getting your masters at Julliard, your playing still matters. Someone who has n advanced degree is not automatically better at their instrument. Using video to showcase your skills will set you apart.

It took me longer than I like to admit to start posting videos. I was worried about how I would sound or if people would even watch my videos. I worried I wouldn’t sound good without expensive equipment. The truth is, all you need is a smartphone with a good camera, and possibly an external microphone.

Social Media Is an Investment

Just like with your instrument, keeping up with social media takes time and/or money. You have to manage it regularly in order to foster a good community. Social media requires regular maintenance, management, and also regular evaluations of what works.

If you do not have the time to dedicate to managing a social media presence, look no further. I am a social media manager and web content manager with a focus on musicians and other creative professionals.

I have experience managing my own accounts and writing about how others can do the same. However, I understand that not everyone wants to spend the time to build their social media presence. If that is you, head over to my Web Content Management page to learn more.

So…cial Media

Have you used social media to promote yourself before? Have you worked with a content manager to grow your accounts? Let me know in the comments!

And be sure to take Nicole Riccardo’s Instagram Marketing and Sales Academy if you want to grow on social media!