Playing at a music festival is one of the most exciting ways to grow your audience and connect with new fans. From major international stages to alternative UK festivals, these live opportunities can elevate your profile and open doors to new collaborations. But with thousands of artists competing for limited slots, knowing how to apply and where can make all the difference.
Why Music Festivals Matter for Independent Artists
Music festivals are no longer just for established acts. Many festivals actively seek emerging and unsigned artists to bring variety and energy to their line-ups. Playing live can help you:
- Build genuine connections with fans
- Increase streams and social followers after performances
- Gain valuable press and networking opportunities
- Strengthen future booking and collaboration potential
Festival applications are competitive, but with the right preparation, you can stand out and get noticed.
How to Apply for a Music Festival: Step-by-Step
Each festival has its own process, but most applications follow a similar pattern. Here’s how to approach it professionally:
Step 1: Research the Right Festivals
Look for festivals that match your genre, location, and performance level. For example, alternative music festivals might suit indie artists, while ‘world music’ festivals offer opportunities to international music styles and less main-stream genres.
Focus on festivals looking for artists and those that feature open music festival submissions or “apply to play” opportunities on their websites.
Step 2: Prepare Your Materials
Before submitting, ensure you have a polished Electronic Press Kit (EPK) that includes:
- A short artist bio and hi-res professional photos
- Links to your best music (Spotify, SoundCloud, Bandcamp)
- At least one live performance video
- Recent achievements or press mentions
- Social media handles and follower counts
A strong EPK makes you look professional and helps organisers quickly assess your potential.
Step 3: Follow Submission Guidelines
Every festival’s application process is slightly different. Some use dedicated music festival software or online forms, while others accept email submissions. Always follow the format requested – file types, word counts, and link formats matter.
Step 4: Personalise Your Pitch
Avoid sending generic messages. When you apply to perform at music festivals, include a short note explaining why your act fits the event. Mention any local connections, genre relevance, or previous festival experience. Even better if you’ve been to the festival before! Bookers notice when artists take the time to tailor their submission.
Step 5: Submit Early
Slots fill fast. Applying early increases your chances and shows professionalism. Keep a spreadsheet to track which festival applications you’ve sent and their submission deadlines.
How to Perform at Music Festivals Successfully
Getting booked is only half the journey – delivering a memorable performance is what keeps you on future line-ups.
Here are a few ways to prepare:
- Rehearse your live set until transitions are seamless.
- Prepare a stage plan and technical rider (equipment list).
- Interact with the crowd – festival audiences love engagement.
- Promote your appearance across your social channels before and after the show.
Festivals are about energy and authenticity. Even smaller sets can leave a big impression if you bring your best performance.
Where to Find Music Performance Opportunities
If you’re new to the festival scene, start by exploring platforms that connect artists with event organisers. Services like Sonicbids, ReverbNation, and Gigmit host open calls for artists worldwide.
Independent networks, social media groups, and music festival submission platforms often list upcoming opportunities too.
To reach more listeners before applying, make sure your music is already available on major streaming platforms. Distributing through Horus Music ensures your tracks are accessible wherever festival organisers and fans discover new talent.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even talented artists can miss out due to small oversights. Watch out for these pitfalls:
- Submitting incomplete or outdated EPKs
- Ignoring instructions or deadlines
- Using low-quality live videos
- Paying for fake “guaranteed slots” these are often scams
- Forgetting to proofread your submission
Authenticity and professionalism always stand out more than aggressive self-promotion.
Building Long-Term Festival Success
Once you’ve played your first few events, use that experience to grow:
- Gather photos and clips from each festival for future applications.
- Tag festivals and other artists in social posts to build connections.
- Stay in touch with organisers – many rebook artists who perform well.
Consistency and reliability are key. Every great live career starts with one successful submission.
FAQs: Music Festival Applications
Can unsigned artists apply to music festivals?
Yes. Many festivals are specifically looking for emerging or unsigned artists to add diversity and fresh sounds to their line-ups.
Do I need a manager to apply?
Not necessarily. You can handle festival submissions yourself as long as you have a strong press kit and professional communication.
Is there a cost to apply to festivals?
Some festivals charge a small administration fee, but many accept free submissions. Always check the official website before applying.
What’s the best way to stand out?
Provide a clear, well-organised EPK, high-quality music links, and a personalised message that shows your connection to the festival.
Where can I find a list of music festivals?
Festival directories, online communities, and artist platforms like Sonicbids and Groover regularly update open application lists for world and UK festivals.
Playing at festivals isn’t just a dream reserved for signed acts, it’s a genuine stepping stone for independent artists ready to grow. By researching carefully, submitting professionally, and performing with passion, you can turn festival stages into lasting opportunities.
At Horus Music, we help independent artists reach global audiences through music distribution, promotion, and publishing support – empowering you to take your next step on stage and beyond.