How to Become a Successful Tour Manager
Becoming a tour manager is a career aspiration for many who love music, travel, and the adrenaline rush that comes from live performances. However, it’s not just about the glamour and thrill. A tour manager wears many hats – from financial planner to psychologist, logistics expert to troubleshooter, and sometimes even nurse or chef. If you are an excellent organizer, a problem solver, possess great people skills, and have a passion for the music industry, then becoming a tour manager might be the perfect career path for you.
What Does a Tour Manager Do?
A tour manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a concert tour. This includes everything from booking venues and arranging transportation to managing the budget and ensuring the safety of the artists and crew. Tour managers work closely with agents, promoters, and venue staff to ensure that everything runs smoothly and that the tour is a success.
Some of the specific duties of a tour manager may include:
- Booking travel and accommodations for the artists and crew
- Arranging transportation to and from venues
- Managing the tour budget and expenses
- Coordinating with venue staff to ensure that everything is set up correctly
- Handling any issues or emergencies that arise during the tour
- Ensuring the safety and well-being of the artists and crew
- Managing merchandise sales and inventory
- Coordinating with the press and media to promote the tour
Required Skills and Education
To become a successful tour manager, there are several key skills and qualities that you’ll need to possess. These include:
- Strong organizational skills: Tour managers are responsible for coordinating many different aspects of a tour, so it’s essential to be highly organized and detail-oriented.
- Excellent communication skills: Tour managers need to be able to communicate effectively with artists, crew members, venue staff, and others involved in the tour.
- Problem-solving skills: Tour managers need to be able to think on their feet and handle any issues or emergencies that arise during the tour.
- Knowledge of the music industry: It’s important to have a good understanding of the music industry and how concerts and tours are organized and managed.
- Flexibility: Tour managers need to be flexible and adaptable, as tours can be unpredictable and may require last-minute changes or adjustments.
While there is no specific education required to become a tour manager, many successful tour managers have a background in music business or a related field. Some schools like NYU offers programs in music business or entertainment management that can be helpful for aspiring tour managers.
Job Outlook and Salary
The job outlook for tour managers is good, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 10% increase in employment for meeting, convention, and event planners (which includes tour managers) from 2019 to 2029. The median annual wage for meeting, convention, and event planners was $51,560 as of May 2020.
Key Takeaways
Becoming a tour manager requires a combination of skills, including strong organizational and communication abilities, problem-solving skills, knowledge of the music industry, and flexibility. While there is no specific education required for the job, programs in music business or entertainment management can be helpful. The job outlook for tour managers is good, and the median annual wage is $51,560.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the music industry, consider taking the NYU x Billboard | Music Industry Essentials online course and certificate program. This program provides a comprehensive overview of the music industry and covers topics such as artist management, touring, and marketing and promotion. By completing this program, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a tour manager or in another role in the music industry.
