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Music Business Plan Template

music business plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 5,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their music businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a music business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

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What Is a Music Business Plan?

A music business plan provides a snapshot of your music business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Music Business Plan

If you’re looking to start a music business or grow your existing business you need a music business plan. A business plan will help you attract investors and raise money, if needed, and plan out the growth of your music business in order to improve your chances of success. Your music business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Source of Funding for Music Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a music business are bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your music business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will want to see a professional music business plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a music business.

The second most common form of funding for a music business is angel investors. Angel investors are wealthy individuals who will write you a check. They will either take equity in return for their funding or, like a bank, they will give you a loan. Venture capitalists will not fund a music business.

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How to write a music business plan.

Your music business plan should include 10 sections as follows:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your music business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of music business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a music business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of music businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the industry. Discuss the type of music business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target audience. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team, and offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of music business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types:

  • Recorded Music – This type of music business sells music that has been recorded in a studio.
  • Music Licensing – This type of music business licenses music for films, TV shows, video games, advertisements, online videos, etc.
  • Live Music – This type of music business sells tickets to live concerts and tours. They might also operate a school that teaches people how to become successful musicians, or they might sell memorabilia such as T-shirts and posters.
  • Music Publishing – This type of music business is in the rights business; they represent songwriters. If someone wants to use a song by a songwriter that is represented by the music publishing company, they need to get permission and then pay a royalty.
  • Music Production – This type of music business provides a service for musicians and recording artists. They might produce and record an album and then provide marketing services such as radio promotion and public relations.
  • Music Business Consulting – This type of business is in the business of providing advice to musicians on how to become successful. For example, they may offer consulting on how to promote your music and how to book gigs.
  • Music Artist – This type of business operates as an individual musician or music group. For example, they might be solo artists, bands looking for a record deal, or groups of musicians hoping to become successful together.
  • Music Education – This type of music business offers music lessons, either in-person or online.
  • Retail Music Store – This type of music business sells instruments, sheet music, and other music-related items.

In addition to explaining the type of music business you operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

  • When and why did you start the business?
  • What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include sales goals you’ve reached, new store openings, etc.
  • Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the music business.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy particularly if your research identifies market trends. For example, if there was a trend towards more people purchasing music online, you may want to focus your marketing efforts on digital platforms.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your music business plan:

  • How big is the music business (in dollars)?
  • Is the market declining or increasing?
  • Who are the key competitors in the market?
  • Who are the key suppliers in the market?
  • What trends are affecting the industry?
  • What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
  • What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your music business. You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your music business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments for a retail music store:

  • Adult beginning guitar players
  • Teenage/college-aged students who want to learn how to play the electric guitar and will commit time and money to do so
  • Middle-aged adults who want to learn how to play acoustic guitars for their own enjoyment
  • Vintage guitar enthusiasts who are looking for specific instruments that are considered rare or valuable.

The following are examples of customer segments for a music education business:

  • Parents who want their children to have a well-rounded education and believe that music is an important part of that
  • Children who want to learn to play an instrument because they enjoy music
  • Adults who want to improve their skills at playing an instrument they already know how to play

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will greatly depend on the type of music business you are operating. Clearly, baby boomers would want a different atmosphere, pricing, and product options, and would respond to different marketing promotions than millennials.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. 

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers or clients.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other music businesses within the same niche.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes physical stores, online stores, and even locally owned retail shops that sell instruments.

Here are some examples of indirect competitors within the music education niche: 

  • Local music store selling instruments
  • Online retailer selling musical instruments
  • The public school system offering a music program to students in grades K-12 or college offering a music ed program as a minor.

You need to mention such competition to show you understand that not everyone in the market is your direct competitor. Furthermore, including a SWOT analysis of your business in this section will demonstrate how you plan to compete against them.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

  • What types of customers do they serve?
  • What products/services do they offer?
  • What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
  • What are they good at?
  • What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to reach out to customers of your competitors and ask them what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

  • Will you provide superior services?
  • Will you provide amenities that your competitors don’t offer?
  • Will you make it easier or faster for customers to book your own studio?
  • Will you provide better customer service?
  • Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a music business plan, your marketing strategy and plan should include the following:

Product : in the product section, you should reiterate the type of music that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to selling instruments, you may also offer music lessons, CD recordings of the lessons, and other merchandise related to your business.

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections, you are presenting the options you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your music business. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your music business located in a commercial district with a lot of foot traffic? If not, will you offer delivery or online sales?

Promotions : the final part of your marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

  • Advertising in local papers and magazines
  • Reaching out to local bloggers and websites
  • Partnerships with local organizations (e.g., partner with vendors to provide recording packages at a discount over a la carte services)
  • Local radio stations advertising
  • Banner ads at local music venues
  • Social media advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your music business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your music business such as serving customers, cleaning, ordering supplies, and so on. This section should list the specific tasks that will need to be completed each day and who will be responsible for them.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to serve your 25th customer, or when you hope to reach $X in sales. It could also be when you expect to hire your Xth employee or launch a new location.

Management Team

To demonstrate your music company’s ability to succeed as a business, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a music business.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in the music business. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in music and/or successfully running small businesses.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, how many customers will you serve? How much does it cost to provide your service/product? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : While balance sheets include much information, to simplify them to the key items you need to know about, balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. For instance, if you spend $100,000 on building out your recording studio, that will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $100.000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your music business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a music business:

  • Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
  • Cost of equipment like studio gear, instruments, amps, inventory, etc.
  • Payroll or salaries paid to staff
  • Business insurance
  • Taxes and permits
  • Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your studio design blueprint or location lease.

Music Business Plan Summary

Putting together a business plan for your music business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the music business, your competition, and your potential customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful music business.

Music Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my music industry business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Music Industry Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of music business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a music business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of music businesses?

How Can I Generate Multiple Income Streams In My Music Business?

Whether you are a band, artist manager, recording producer, record label, or music store, if you can learn how to take the best advantage of both live and recorded revenue streams, you may be able to beat competitors at the music game. Your music business plan should describe your strategy of utilizing these two sides of the music industry.

Live concert tickets can be sold for hundreds of dollars for popular groups, while up-and-comers may need to play for just tips at bars and small venues. However, there is a place for every type of musician on this spectrum, and almost all musicians maintain a live performance schedule even as they become successful recording artists. Live concerts offer an opportunity for the group or artist’s music to be exposed to new audiences in a visceral way, sometimes driving direct sales of CDs at the concert itself, and leading to word-of-mouth inspired sales down the road.

Live concerts can be a significant revenue stream for a successful music artist, but they must play at venues large enough to cover the fixed costs of production (marketing, ticket sales, equipment rental, and set-up, travel, wages, and venue rental) leaving a net profit. If venues are too small and cost too high, concerts may have to be considered just a promotion method for other revenue streams, like recording sales.

Recorded Music

The sales of CDs or mp3s of the group or artist’s music, on the other hand, leave much more potential for huge returns. The profitability of selling recorded music increases significantly as the number of CDs or mp3s increases, as the cost of producing and selling each additional CD (and especially mp3s) approaches zero. Recordings can also help promote concert sales to a certain extent, through the release of singles and promo CDs. This can be through giveaways and through radio promotion of those songs.

If each revenue stream is significant on its own and also reinforces the other, you can build an extremely profitable business over time.

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A Touch of Business

How to Start a Concert Venue Business

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting A Concert Venue Business Points to Consider Resources Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

This post provides an overview of running a concert venue and a comprehensive step-by-step guide.

You’ll also discover resources for the initial phase and when your venue hosts events.

There’s much to absorb, so consider saving this page. If it resonates, share it!

Let’s get started with the steps.

Steps to Starting a Concert Venue Business

Below are the steps to starting a concert venue business.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

  • An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
  • Concert Venue Business Overview
  • Researching Your Concert Venue Business
  • Looking at Financials
  • Choosing A Business Location
  • Creating Your Mission Statement
  • Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
  • Choose a Concert Venue Business Name
  • Register Your Company
  • Create Your Corporate Identity
  • Writing a Business Plan
  • Banking Considerations
  • Getting the Funds for Your Operation
  • Software Setup
  • Business Insurance Considerations
  • Supplier Considerations
  • Physical Setup
  • Creating a Website
  • Create an External Support Team
  • Hiring Employees

1.  An Overview of What You’re Getting Into

Is Starting a Concert Venue Business the Right Step for You?

Passion – The Driving Force for Success

There is a key factor to succeeding in the concert venue business, and that factor is you! Understanding how you feel about owning and running a concert venue business is crucial.

Passion plays a significant role in the success of your venture. It is the driving force you need to navigate the challenges that may arise.

When you’re passionate about your concert venue business, any problems that come your way will be seen as opportunities for finding solutions. On the other hand, without that passion, you may find yourself looking for a way out when faced with difficulties.

Are You Passionate About Owning a Concert Venue Business?

Ask yourself: How passionate are you about owning your concert venue business? This question is essential as it will shape your journey as an entrepreneur in the concert industry.

An Interesting Perspective: Your 5 Wishes

Let’s look at an interesting perspective to gauge your passion. Imagine you were granted 5 wishes for anything you want. No restrictions! Now, with these wishes at your disposal, consider an important question: Would you start a concert venue business with one of your wishes in this situation?

Your Answer Matters

If your answer is a resounding yes, it shows that you are truly passionate about owning and operating a concert venue business and are heading in the right direction.

Your passion will be a driving force in overcoming obstacles and achieving success in the concert industry.

Discovering Your True Calling

However, if your answer is no, it’s time to reflect further. Consider what you would prefer to do instead. Perhaps, there is another path that aligns better with your passions and aspirations.

Exploring your true calling and pursuing a path that brings you fulfillment and satisfaction is essential.

Passion Paves the Way to Success

In summary, passion is the key to increasing your chances of success in the concert venue business.

The fuel will propel you forward, even during challenging times. Without passion, you may find yourself fighting an uphill battle. So, take the time to assess your passion and commitment to the concert venue business.

With unwavering dedication and enthusiasm, you can create a thriving and rewarding concert venue venture that resonates with your deepest desires.

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business . Also, see, Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify key points for a new business owner.

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning a Concert Venue Business

Next, let’s spend some time on key issues to give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running your business.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Concert Venue Business

A concert venue business is a facility or location that hosts live performances, typically music concerts, for audiences. These businesses can range in size from small intimate clubs to large stadiums that hold tens of thousands of people.

They provide a space for artists, musicians, and performers to present their work to fans and generate revenue through ticket sales, merchandise, and sometimes concessions.

The concert venue serves as a place for entertainment and a hub for cultural and social interaction among attendees.

Day-to-Day Tasks of Running a Concert Venue

Booking and Scheduling :

Securing dates with artists, bands, or their management.

A balanced calendar of events is essential to ensure steady revenue and varied entertainment for patrons.

Maintenance and Upkeep :

Regularly checking and maintaining the sound and lighting systems, seating areas, and overall facility is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for performers and attendees.

Marketing and Promotion :

Creating and implementing advertising strategies to promote upcoming concerts and events is crucial for ensuring ticket sales.

This can include social media campaigns, print advertising, or partnerships with local businesses.

Ticket Sales Management :

This includes overseeing ticket pricing , sales, and distribution online and at the box office.

Staff Management :

Hiring , training, and scheduling staff such as security, ushers, ticket agents, and concessions workers is a continuous task. Their effectiveness and professionalism can significantly impact the overall experience at the venue.

Financial Management :

This involves managing the venue’s budget, ensuring that expenses are kept in check and revenue targets are met.

This also includes settling with artists or their management after events.

Compliance and Licensing :

Staying updated with local and state regulations and ensuring the venue complies with all licensing requirements, including alcohol sales, if applicable, is essential to avoid legal complications.

Customer Service :

Addressing concerns, feedback, and patron complaints promptly and professionally ensures the venue maintains a positive reputation.

By understanding these tasks, anyone interested in the concert venue industry can better appreciate the intricacies and dedication required to operate a successful business in this sector.

b.) A Key Points To Succeeding in a Concert Venue Business

Building a Solid Customer Base :

In the initial stages, attracting a consistent audience can be challenging. Hosting diverse events and offering introductory promotions can help attract and solidify a loyal customer base.

Fostering Strong Relationships :

Forming meaningful bonds with customers, suppliers, and employees lays the foundation for trust and collaboration. These relationships can lead to repeat business, favorable deals, and a motivated workforce.

Meeting Customer Desires :

Understand and cater to the preferences of your audience. Offer concerts, products, and services that resonate with their tastes.

Valuing Customer Feedback :

Listen to what your customers have to say. When they highlight genuine issues in line with your business operations, taking action demonstrates commitment.

Prioritizing Customer Service :

Recognize that customers are the backbone of your business. Ensure every interaction they have at your venue is positive, welcoming, and memorable.

Offering Consistent Value :

Always prioritize giving your customers more than they expect. Whether through exclusive events or exceptional amenities, delivering value retains patrons.

Hiring the Ideal Team :

The right people can make or break the business. Be meticulous in hiring and choosing individuals who align with the venue’s mission and values.

Effective Staff Management :

Foster a supportive work environment. Treating staff with respect and emphasizing teamwork boosts morale and can reduce turnover.

Overseeing Cash Flow :

Financial prudence is vital. Regularly monitor your cash flow, ensuring that revenue covers operational expenses and allows growth.

Optimizing Costs :

Strive for cost efficiency. However, never compromise on the quality of services or products, as it can damage your venue’s reputation.

Embracing Change :

The entertainment industry is dynamic. Stay abreast of trends, technological advances, and shifts in customer preferences to remain relevant.

Navigating Revenue Shifts :

Seasons or events can cause fluctuating income. Plan, set aside reserves, and diversify events to counteract lean periods.

Addressing Competition :

Stay informed about what other venues are doing. Innovate, differentiate, and consider collaborations to coexist and thrive in a competitive landscape.

Championing Effective Promotion :

Whether you handle it internally or enlist experts, impactful marketing draws attention. Adopt a mix of traditional and digital strategies tailored to your target audience.

Incorporating these strategies can elevate the chances of success for anyone in the concert venue business.

They underscore the importance of adaptability, financial prudence, and unwavering focus on customer satisfaction.

c.) Making Your Concert Venue Business stand out

Unique Themes and Decor :

Create a distinct ambiance that separates your venue. Using interior design , artwork, or themed nights can transform an ordinary venue into an extraordinary experience.

Exclusive Performances :

Collaborate with artists for exclusive shows or album launch events. These special events can drive ticket sales and media attention.

Technology Integration :

Incorporate state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. Advanced technology can enhance the concert experience, making performances memorable.

Sustainable Practices :

Embrace green initiatives like recycling, solar power, or biodegradable materials. Environmentally-conscious customers will appreciate and support eco-friendly venues.

Community Engagement :

Host local talent nights or community-driven events. Building ties with the community can foster loyalty and offer local artists a platform.

Educational Initiatives :

Conduct workshops or masterclasses with musicians, technicians, or industry professionals.

Such sessions can attract a diverse crowd and position your venue as a knowledge hub.

Innovative Partnerships :

Collaborate with local businesses for joint promotions or events. Partnering with breweries, restaurants, or art galleries can create a holistic experience for patrons.

d.) Add on Ideas for a concert venue Business

VIP Packages :

Offer exclusive seating areas, backstage passes, or meet-and-greet opportunities with artists.

Premium experiences can attract a dedicated clientele willing to pay for exclusivity.

Merchandise Corner :

Design and sell venue-branded merchandise, like t-shirts , posters, or accessories. Collaborate with performing artists to sell their merchandise and share profits.

Food and Beverage Outlets :

Establish a gourmet snack bar or collaborate with local food vendors. Themed cocktails or signature dishes can enhance the concert experience.

Photography Services :

Provide professional photography services for attendees. Capture moments they can take home as souvenirs or share on social media.

Themed Nights :

Organize events around themes or genres, such as ’80s retro nights or jazz evenings. This caters to niche audiences and offers variety.

Rental Spaces :

Offer parts of your venue for private events, like birthday parties or corporate events. Diversifying usage can ensure consistent revenue.

Interactive Installations :

Set up art installations or interactive exhibits related to the music world. These can serve as attractions and provide engaging experiences beyond just the concert.

Membership Programs :

Introduce loyalty programs or memberships.

Offer discounts, early access to tickets, or special events to members, fostering a sense of community and repeat patronage.

Incorporating these add-ons and standout features can elevate the status of a concert venue, ensuring it’s not just another place for music but a holistic experience for patrons.

e.) Concert Venue Business Models

Types of Concert Venue Business Setups and Their Business Models

Intimate Clubs and Bars :

These small venues, often accommodating fewer than 500 patrons, focus on offering an up-close experience with performers.

Business Model :

Revenue generation primarily through cover charges, ticket and drink sales.

Collaborations with local artists can lead to reduced upfront fees, instead opting for a profit-sharing model from the night’s earnings.

Theaters and Auditoriums :

Mid-sized venues that can host diverse performances, from plays to concerts.

Ticket sales form the bulk of revenue. Merchandising, concessions, and renting the space for private events or recordings can also contribute.

Outdoor Amphitheaters :

Open-air venues often host larger concerts or music festivals.

Aside from ticket sales, these venues might benefit from on-site parking fees, concessions, vendor booth rentals during festivals, and VIP packages.

Stadiums and Arenas :

These massive venues are designed for big-name acts and can hold tens of thousands of attendees.

There is major revenue from ticket sales, with significant earnings from VIP packages, food and beverage sales, merchandise, and brand sponsorships.

Pop-Up Venues :

Temporary spaces, like rooftops, warehouses, or parks, are transformed for unique concert experiences.

Due to their temporary nature, a significant portion of revenue comes from ticket sales and partnerships with brands looking for unique advertising platforms.

Specialty Music Venues :

Spaces dedicated to specific genres, like jazz clubs or classical music halls.

Revenue from ticket sales, specialty food and drink menus catered to the genre’s audience, and membership or subscription programs for regular attendees.

Historic or Themed Venues :

Locations known for their architectural, historical, or thematic significance.

These venues can charge a premium on ticket prices due to their unique appeal. Additionally, guided tours, special events, and merchandise related to the venue’s theme or history can boost revenue.

Choosing the right business model from the beginning is crucial, as switching your model later is more challenging.

Identifying a profitable and high-demand niche for your concert venue business is essential.

f.) Questions You Need to Consider for Your Concert Venue Business

Preparing for Your Concert Venue Business: Key Questions

Concert Venue Business Model :

What model are you considering? Are you thinking of a small intimate club, a large stadium, a themed venue, or a pop-up concert space?

Operational Roles :

Will you be directly involved in the day-to-day activities, or will you hire employees to handle specific roles?

Management Decisions :

Do you envision overseeing the management aspects, or would you prefer hiring an experienced venue manager to handle the operations?

Partnerships and Funding :

Are you considering bringing partners or seeking investors to finance your venture?

Location Choices :

Are you leaning towards a home-based concert setup for small private performances, or do you have a commercial location in mind?

Physical versus Digital Presence :

While the essence of a concert venue is physical, are you considering integrating online elements such as virtual concerts or streaming capabilities?

Growth and Vision :

Have you considered your concert venue’s future? What are your aspirations, and how do you envision scaling up?

Genre and Theme :

Have you decided on the type of music or themes your venue will focus on? Will it be a mix, or will you specialize in a particular genre?

How do you plan to create buzz and attract crowds to your venue? What promotional strategies are you considering?

Legal and Compliance :

Have you considered the licenses and permits required to operate a concert venue in your region?

Financial Planning :

How do you intend to finance the initial setup? Have you created a budget forecast and break-even analysis?

How will you integrate and contribute to the local community through your venue? Are there opportunities for local artists or community-driven events?

By thoughtfully addressing these questions, you’ll gain clarity on your concert venue venture’s direction and be better prepared for the challenges ahead.

g.) Pros and Cons of Owning a Concert Venue Business

Pros of Running a Concert Venue Business

Be Your Own Boss :

Owning a concert venue allows you to take the lead, overseeing every decision and direction the business takes.

Decision-Making Authority :

You have the final say in every aspect of the business, from bookings to promotions, allowing you to steer the venture based on your vision.

Creative Freedom :

There’s ample room for creativity, from designing the venue to deciding on event themes.

Potential for High Revenue :

With a successful strategy, concert venues can generate significant revenue, especially during peak seasons or high-demand events.

Flexible Working Hours :

Once you’ve established a trustworthy team, you can enjoy the flexibility of setting your hours and taking time off as needed.

Control Over Your Working Environment :

You determine the venue’s ambiance, ethos, and culture, ensuring it aligns with your personal preferences.

Networking Opportunities :

Owning a venue offers countless chances to network with artists, producers, and industry insiders, potentially leading to more opportunities and collaborations.

Sense of Fulfillment :

There’s a unique satisfaction in hosting successful events and concerts, bringing joy and entertainment to many.

Cons of Running a Concert Venue Business

Shouldering Responsibilities :

Every problem, big or small, will land on your desk, from maintenance issues to disputes with performers.

Irregular Income :

You may face fluctuating income in the early days, with some months more profitable than others.

Challenging Start-Up Phase :

Getting the business off the ground can be an uphill task, from acquiring licenses to promoting initial events.

Customer Acquisition and Retention :

Attracting a steady flow of patrons and ensuring they remain loyal can be demanding, especially with increasing competition.

Extended Working Hours :

In the beginning or during big events, be prepared to put in extra hours to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Success Pressures :

Owning a business comes with its set of pressures, especially when you’re accountable to investors or have taken on substantial loans.

Initial Investment :

Setting up a concert venue can be capital-intensive, from leasing or purchasing space to setting up sound systems and other infrastructure.

Constant Evolution :

The entertainment industry is ever-changing. You must stay updated with trends and continuously adapt to ensure relevance.

Inherent Business Risks :

From financial downturns to unexpected global events, various factors can impact the profitability and operations of your venue.

Regulatory and Compliance Challenges :

Concert venues must adhere to numerous regulations, from noise levels to safety standards, which can sometimes be complex and costly.

Reputation Management :

A single negative event, be it an unruly concert or a negative review, can affect the venue’s reputation, making damage control a continuous effort.

These pros and cons can provide valuable insights, helping prospective owners decide about entering the concert venue business.

For more, see Pros and Cons of Starting a Small Business.

3. Research

Concert Venue Business Research: A Crucial Step

Thorough Research for Concert Venue Business Success

Before taking any further action, conducting thorough research for your concert venue business is paramount.

Quality information will provide valuable insights and help you understand the dynamics of the concert industry.

Without it, you might find yourself facing unexpected challenges.

Learning from Experienced Concert Venue Business Owners

One of the best ways to gather the most reliable information is by seeking advice from experienced people in the concert venue business.

These individuals are qualified to share valuable insights that you can depend on.

Gaining Priceless Insights

Spending time with these experienced professionals can be priceless. It is a unique opportunity to tap into their vast knowledge and years of experience in the concert industry.

Their guidance can be instrumental in setting up and managing your successful concert venue business.

An Article with Actionable Ideas

To help you find and approach the right people, I have written an article that offers valuable ideas.

It will guide you through contacting experienced concert venue owners in an acceptable and non-threatening manner.

While the steps go beyond the scope of this post, I strongly recommend reading the full article to gain a comprehensive understanding of what you’re getting into.

Taking the Next Step: Read the Article

For a more in-depth understanding of how to connect with experienced concert venue business owners and benefit from their knowledge, click on the link below to access the article.

This article will be a valuable resource as you embark on your journey into the concert venue business:

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for all the details.

Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is crucial for a concert venue business.

When you know your target market, you can tailor your offers to appeal to potential customers, providing products and services that genuinely interest them.

This level of understanding enables you to build meaningful connections and enhances the overall concert experience for attendees.

Target Market Ideas:

  • Music enthusiasts of various genres (rock, pop, hip-hop, classical, etc.).
  • Local residents looking for entertainment options.
  • Tourists seeking cultural experiences and live music events.
  • Event planners and organizations in need of a venue for performances.
  • College students and young adults seeking vibrant social activities.
  • Businesses looking to host corporate events or team-building activities.
  • Families interested in family-friendly concerts and events.

For more, see How To Understand Your Target Market.

4. Looking at Financials:

Overview of a Concert Venue Business: Costs, Revenue, and Profitability

Startup Cost :

To ensure your concert venue’s successful launch, an accurate estimation of startup costs is essential for a seamless transition from the planning phase to the grand opening .

Underestimating can lead to financial shortfalls, potentially hindering your venue’s inauguration.

Overestimating makes the venture appear financially unstable to potential investors or partners.

Your costs will vary based on factors like the venue’s size and location, whether you’re hiring staff right away, opting for new or pre-owned sound equipment, and leasing or outright purchasing the venue space.

To gauge an accurate estimate, draft a list of essentials and price them out. As you investigate, unforeseen expenses may emerge, which you can then incorporate into your financial projections.

For more detailed information, refer to my article on Estimating Startup Costs.

Sales and Revenue :

The revenue of your concert venue will be influenced by:

  • The appeal of your scheduled performances and events.
  • Audience demand for live entertainment experiences.
  • How effectively you market your venue, ensuring the right demographics know your events.

Achieving profitability in the concert venue business isn’t merely about ticket sales.

It’s imperative to account for various expenses, such as lease or mortgage payments, staff salaries, utilities, equipment maintenance, and other overheads.

For your venue to thrive, sales must cover these monthly expenditures and yield enough to compensate you adequately.

This balance ensures the business’s long-term sustainability and success.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue

Sample Financial Lists As a Starting Point

Broad Overview of Financial Considerations for a Concert Venue Business

Below are three overly simplified sample financial lists to give you a broad overview of the areas to focus on.

SAMPLE Startup Costs for a Small Concert Venue Business (USA):

  • Property Purchase/Down Payment : $200,000 – $500,000
  • Renovations and Interiors : $50,000 – $200,000
  • Sound and Lighting Equipment : $30,000 – $100,000
  • Licensing and Permits : $5,000 – $20,000
  • Initial Marketing and Promotion : $10,000 – $50,000
  • Seating and Stage Setup : $20,000 – $80,000
  • Initial Inventory (Alcohol, Food, Merchandise) : $10,000 – $40,000
  • Staff Training : $3,000 – $10,000

Total Startup Costs : $328,000 – $1,000,000

SAMPLE Monthly Expenses for a Concert Venue Business (USA):

  • Rent/Mortgage : $5,000 – $20,000
  • Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) : $2,000 – $5,000
  • Staff Salaries : $10,000 – $30,000
  • Loan Repayments : $2,000 – $7,000
  • Maintenance and Repairs : $1,000 – $5,000
  • Marketing and Advertising : $3,000 – $10,000
  • Inventory Restocking : $5,000 – $15,000
  • Miscellaneous : $2,000 – $6,000
  • Entertainment Costs:   Bands may need to be paid if you promote the event rather than renting your venue to a promoter. It depends on their popularity. A local band might cost a few thousand dollars, while a well-known band could cost as much as six figures.

Total Monthly Expenses : $30,000 – $98,000

SAMPLE Sales and Profit Outline:

Let’s assume the venue can host 8 events per month, with an average ticket price of $50 and an average attendance of 350 people per event:

Monthly Revenue from Ticket Sales : 8 events x 350 tickets x $50 = $140,000

Additional Revenue (Food, Drinks, Merchandise) : $5 per attendee x 350 attendees x 8 events = $14,000

Total Monthly Revenue : $154,000

Profit (after deducting the upper limit of monthly expenses) : $154,000 – $98,000 = $56,000

This profit outline is based on our samples’ monthly revenue and expenses.

These fictitious examples provide a broad perspective on the financial factors you might need to consider when planning to start your concert venue business.

Adjusting costs can critically determine the success of the business. A marginal change in profit per ticket, especially with a defined number of events, can significantly alter your overall profits.

It’s essential to remember that many new businesses take time to become profitable, given the challenges of establishing a loyal clientele, earning a good reputation, and optimizing operations.

Your exact figures will differ, as every business environment is unique and influenced by many factors.

Research thoroughly and consider seeking professional advice when determining your business’s startup costs and operating expenses and estimating revenues and profits.

5. Choosing The Right Business Location

Location is a critical factor that can determine the success or failure of your concert venue business. Making the right choice will significantly impact your venture.

Demand and Competition: Striking the Right Balance

Operating in a location with little to no demand for live music events can lead to failure even before launching your business.

On the other hand, opening in an area saturated with competitors may make it challenging to gain market share.

Ideally, you want a location with sufficient demand and a manageable level of competition.

Affordability vs. Exposure

Consider your budget carefully when selecting a location.

Operating in a highly populated area may provide more exposure, but you must ensure your concert venue can still be profitable with the additional expenses.

Conversely, opting for a more affordable area might save costs, but you must assess whether it will generate enough ticket sales and revenue.

Thorough Research is Key

Choosing the right location is a vital factor in the success of your concert venue business.

Conduct thorough research to assess potential locations’ demand, competition, and financial viability.

Doing so can increase the chances of your concert venue thriving in its chosen area.

For more about business locations, see Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

6. Create Your Mission Statement

Overview: The Importance of a Mission Statement for Your Concert Venue Business

A mission statement is a valuable tool in identifying and defining the purpose of your concert venue business.

It serves as a guiding principle, keeping you focused on the main benefits you aim to offer your customers and community.

Examples of Mission Statements for a Concert Venue Business:

  • “To create an inclusive and vibrant space where music enthusiasts of all ages can come together, experience exceptional live performances, and foster a sense of community through the power of music.”
  • “Our mission is to be the premier concert venue that showcases diverse genres of music, providing unforgettable experiences for both local and visiting audiences, while contributing to the cultural enrichment of our city.”
  • “At our concert venue, we are committed to delivering top-tier performances, cultivating emerging artists, and contributing to the growth and appreciation of the arts in our community.”
  • “To be a hub for artistic expression and entertainment, offering a dynamic range of concerts and events that captivate audiences, create lasting memories, and celebrate the magic of live music.”
  • “Our purpose is to bring people together through shared musical experiences, promoting a sense of unity and joy, while supporting local musicians and contributing positively to the cultural landscape of our region.”

For more, see, How To Create a Mission Statement

7. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Overview: The Role of Unique Selling Proposition in Your Concert Venue Business

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is a powerful tool that helps you identify and develop distinctive aspects that set your concert venue business apart from competitors.

A USP allows you to create something special that appeals uniquely to your target audience.

Examples of USPs for a Concert Venue Business:

  • “Our concert venue offers an intimate setting with state-of-the-art acoustics, providing an unparalleled live music experience for every attendee.”
  • “At our venue, we curate a diverse lineup of world-class artists, ensuring an eclectic mix of musical genres that cater to the varied tastes of our audience.”
  • “Our concert venue embraces sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly practices in our operations to promote environmental consciousness within the music industry.”
  • “We differentiate ourselves by providing exceptional customer service, ensuring every guest feels valued and appreciated throughout their concert experience.”
  • “With a strong focus on local talent, our concert venue serves as a platform for budding musicians to showcase their skills and connect with a supportive community of music lovers.”

8. Choose a Business Name

Choosing the Perfect Name for Your Concert Venue Business

Selecting the right name for your concert venue business is vital. You need something catchy, appropriate, easy to pronounce, and memorable.

Since business names are usually long-lasting, your chosen name will represent your company throughout its existence.

Consider Online Presence and Availability

It’s essential to have a matching domain name for your online presence.

Ensure the name you desire isn’t already registered by another business to avoid conflicts.

30 Creative Ideas for Concert Venue Business Names:

  • Harmony Hall Concerts
  • Melody Central Venue
  • Encore Events Center
  • Groove Junction Concerts
  • Symphony Spot
  • Radiant Rhythms Venue
  • Starlight Soundstage
  • Serenade Plaza
  • Euphoria Concert Hall
  • Crescendo Center
  • Harmonic Heights Venue
  • Pulse Pavilion
  • Luminary Lounge
  • Acoustic Aura Concerts
  • Melodic Oasis Venue
  • Rhythmic Revelry Hall
  • Crescendo Connections
  • NoteWorthy Venue
  • Melodious Meadows Concerts
  • Soothing Soundscapes
  • Harmony Haven Venue
  • BeatBox Concert Hall
  • Vivid Vibration Venue
  • Serendipity Sounds
  • Symphony Serenade
  • Resonance Center Stage
  • Cadence Corner
  • Elixir Ensemble
  • Echoes Emporium
  • Harmony Heights Hall

Use these ideas as inspiration to craft a unique and original business name that reflects the essence of your concert venue.

For more, see the following articles:

  • How To Register a Business Name
  • Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

9. Register Your Company

Ensuring Legal Compliance for Your Concert Venue Business

Operating a concert venue business requires ensuring all legal aspects are in order. This protects your venture, ensures you are eligible for potential tax benefits, and minimizes liability risks.

Consider seeking professional advice to navigate the complexities of legal requirements effectively.

Consulting with a Professional for Legal Setup

Engaging a qualified professional, such as an attorney or business consultant, can be beneficial in assessing the legal structure of your concert venue business.

They can guide you through the necessary steps to establish a solid legal foundation, ensuring compliance with local and federal regulations.

Common Types of Registrations for a Concert Venue Business:

  • Sole Proprietorship: Operating the concert venue as an individual owner, assuming all responsibilities and liabilities.
  • Partnership: Forming a business with two or more owners, sharing responsibilities and liabilities.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC): Combining the benefits of a corporation and a partnership, providing personal liability protection for owners.
  • Corporation: Establishing a separate legal entity from its owners, offering personal liability protection.

Permits and Licenses for a Concert Venue Business:

  • Business License: Required to operate a legal business in your city or county.
  • Entertainment License: Specific license for hosting live entertainment events.
  • Alcohol License: If serving alcoholic beverages at your venue, you need this license.
  • Fire Safety Permit: Ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations for public gatherings.
  • Noise Permit: This permit may be necessary if your concerts generate amplified noise.
  • Health Department Permit: Ensuring food and beverage service compliance with health and sanitation standards.
  • Occupancy Permit: Certifying the maximum capacity of your venue for safety purposes.
  • Music Licensing: Obtaining the necessary licenses to play copyrighted music during events.

By understanding and fulfilling these legal obligations, you can set your concert venue business on a solid legal footing, allowing you to focus on creating memorable experiences for your audience while operating responsibly and within the bounds of the law.

Registration:

  • How to Register Your Business
  • How To Register a DBA
  • How to Register a Trademark
  • How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

  • How to Choose a Business Structure
  • Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
  • How To Form an LLC
  • How To Register a Business Partnership
  • How To Form a Corporation
  • How To Choose a Business Registration Service

10. Create Your Corporate Identity

Creating a Strong Corporate Identity for Your Concert Venue Business

A Corporate Identity (Corporate ID) is a crucial design element representing your concert venue business.

It includes your logo, business cards, website, business sign, stationary, and promotional items.

Establishing a consistent and professional design is essential in leaving a lasting impression on new and existing customers.

The Components of Corporate Identity for a Concert Venue Business:

  • Logo: Design a captivating and memorable logo that reflects the essence of your concert venue and can be used across various platforms.
  • Business Cards: Create professional business cards that showcase your venue’s branding and contact information.
  • Website: Develop an engaging and user-friendly website that provides essential information about your concerts and events.
  • Business Sign: Display an eye-catching, well-designed sign outside your venue to attract attention.
  • Stationery: Ensure all stationery, such as letterheads and envelopes, follows the consistent corporate design.
  • Promotional Items: Utilize branded promotional items like posters, flyers , and merchandise to enhance visibility and recognition.

Consistency for Maximum Impact

Maintaining consistency in your concert venue’s corporate design is vital in reinforcing your brand identity and leaving a professional impression on your audience.

This visual cohesion fosters a sense of trust and reliability, which is crucial in attracting and retaining customers.

By investing in a strong Corporate Identity, your concert venue business can establish a compelling and recognizable brand presence in the market, making it stand out in a competitive industry.

You can see our page for an overview of your logo , business cards , website , and business sign , or see A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages.

11. Writing a Business Plan

The Concert Venue Business Plan: Navigating the Music Industry

The Essence of a Business Plan:

A business plan remains a fundamental document for concert venue operators.

It’s not just about securing funds or wooing investors; it’s your guiding star, ensuring alignment from the startup phase to regular events hosting.

Crafting the Vision:

Drafting a business plan is like painting a vivid picture of your concert venue’s future.

This isn’t a race. Deliberate, detailed planning lets you hone in on how you see the venue evolving once it’s buzzing with audiences and performances.

Options at Your Disposal:

Crafting a business plan for your concert venue doesn’t require a strict template.

Whether it’s a DIY approach, hiring a seasoned professional, using an available template, or tapping into dedicated software – the key lies in ensuring the end product rings true to your vision.

Stay Engaged:

Should you opt for a professional touch, remember to be more than just a spectator.

Your active involvement ensures the plan captures the essence, offerings, and unique management strategies you have in mind for the concert venue.

Evolving with the Times:

Music trends shift. Audiences evolve. Tech disrupts. Given this dynamic landscape, periodically dusting off and revising your business plan can ensure your concert venue remains relevant by fine-tuning the plan or your operation.

A Fictitious Business Plan Example for a Concert Venue

Concert Venue Business Plan: The Rhapsody Hall

Executive Summary: Business Name: The Rhapsody Hall Location: 123 Harmony Lane, Music City, USA Mission: To offer a premier concert experience by showcasing diverse musical talents in an iconic setting.

Business Objectives:

  • Host a minimum of 12 major events annually.
  • Achieve 90% occupancy for all major events in the first year.
  • Garner partnership deals with local businesses for mutual promotions.

Business Description & Offerings: The Rhapsody Hall is a state-of-the-art concert venue with a seating capacity 350.

We will host various events, including concerts, live podcast recordings, and other musical events. Our bar area will serve refreshments and snacks.

Market Analysis:

  • Target Audience: Music enthusiasts aged 18-45 within a 50-mile radius.
  • Competition: Three other nearby concert venues, each with unique offerings.
  • Opportunities: Increasing demand for live entertainment post-pandemic; emerging local musical talents seeking platforms.

Marketing & Sales Strategy:

  • Advertising: Collaboration with local radio stations, social media campaigns, and partnerships with nearby businesses.
  • Promotions: Early bird ticket discounts, loyalty programs, and group ticket deals.
  • Partnerships: Deals with local food and beverage vendors to offer exclusive deals to ticket holders.

Management & Staff:

  • Owner: Jane Doe
  • Venue Manager: John Smith
  • Operations Team: A team of 10 responsible for event coordination, tech setup, and guest services.
  • Bar Staff: Five bartenders and servers.

Financial Projections:

  • Startup Costs: $1M (including property lease, equipment, and initial marketing)
  • Monthly Expenses: $50k (salaries, utilities, marketing, maintenance)
  • Projected Revenue: $1.5M in the first year (from ticket sales, bar revenue, and venue rentals)

Conclusion & Future Goals: The Rhapsody Hall is positioned to become a beacon of live entertainment in Music City.

With a clear focus on the guest experience, partnerships, and a diverse event line-up, we anticipate robust growth and a solid reputation.

Future objectives include introducing merchandise sales, hosting international artists, and possibly expanding to a bigger location.

Note: This business plan is a fictitious representation, meant only as an example for illustration purposes.

For information on creating your business plan, see, How to Write a Business Plan.

12. Banking Considerations

Setting Up Financial Accounts for Your Concert Venue Business

Choosing a Business-Friendly Bank

Consider choosing a nearby bank that caters to business owners.

Having a bank that understands the unique needs of businesses can be highly advantageous for your concert venue.

Separate Business Account for Better Management

A separate business account separates your business expenses from personal spending.

This clear distinction makes tracking expenses and managing your bookkeeping easier, providing crucial documentation in case of a tax audit.

Building a Professional Relationship with Your Banker

Developing a professional relationship with your banker is also a good idea.

They can assist you with valuable advice and financial services that cater to your concert venue business.

Maintaining a strong connection with your banker can also streamline application processes and enhance overall financial management.

Accepting Credit and Debit Cards for Convenience

You will also want to consider applying for a merchant account or a similar setup to accept credit and debit cards.

By offering multiple payment options, you provide added convenience to your concert attendees, potentially increasing customer satisfaction and sales.

By making sound financial decisions and establishing the right banking and payment systems, your concert venue business can operate smoothly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on delivering exceptional experiences to your audience.

For more, see, How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at, What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

13. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

Getting Funding for Your Concert Venue Business: A Comprehensive Overview

If you require financial assistance to start and operate your concert venue business, these tips can guide you through the process of securing a loan:

Exploring Funding Options:

There are various funding options available to support your concert venue business.

Consider traditional lenders, private loans, seeking investors, or selling assets you may possess. Using collateral can also bolster your chances of securing a loan.

Meeting with a Loan Officer: Considerations

When meeting with a loan officer, being well-prepared and professional is essential. Keep the following considerations in mind:

  • Present your business plan and financial projections.
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the concert venue industry and its growth potential.
  • Be prepared to discuss how you will use the funds and how to repay the loan.
  • Understand the terms and conditions of the loan, including interest rates and repayment schedules.

Sample List of Documents for Loan Application:

To apply for a business loan for your new concert venue, gather the following documents:

  • Business plan outlining your venue’s vision, target audience, marketing strategy, and financial projections.
  • Personal and business credit history.
  • Financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow projections.
  • Business licenses and permits required for operating a concert venue.
  • Proof of collateral, if applicable.
  • Any relevant legal agreements, contracts, or leases.

By diligently preparing for loan applications and exploring various funding options, you can secure the necessary financial resources to bring your concert venue business to life and ensure its successful operation.

See, Getting a Small Business Loan for more.

14. Software Setup

Software Considerations for Your Concert Venue Business

When choosing software for your concert venue business, thorough research is crucial.

Implementing a program from scratch is easier than switching to a new system after your data is already in another program.

Consider the following factors to make an informed decision:

  • Demo and Reviews: Look for software providers that offer demos, allowing you to test the system’s functionality before committing. Additionally, check reviews and forums to learn about the experiences of other concert venue businesses using the software.
  • Event Management Software: Explore event management software tailored to concert venues. Look for features like ticketing and seating management, event scheduling, and attendee tracking.
  • Accounting Software: Research software options for tracking expenses and preparing financial documents for tax filing. Consult with your bookkeeper or accountant to ensure you choose the most suitable accounting software for your concert venue.
  • Sound and Lighting Software: Consider software solutions for sound and lighting management, especially if your venue hosts a variety of performances and events.
  • Marketing and Promotion Software: Look for tools to streamline marketing and promotion efforts, such as social media management, email marketing , and customer relationship management (CRM) software.
  • Inventory and Merchandise Software: If your concert venue sells merchandise or concessions, explore software that helps manage inventory and sales.
  • Venue Scheduling Software: Consider solutions that aid in managing the scheduling of events and performances at your concert venue.

You can enhance efficiency and organization by carefully considering your software options and choosing tools that align with your concert venue’s specific needs, leading to a seamless and successful operation.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for a concert venue business.

15. Get The Right Business Insurance

Insurance Considerations for Your Concert Venue Business

Incidents can occur at any time, making having the right insurance coverage essential before hosting any activities at your concert venue.

Protecting your customers, employees, property, and yourself is crucial to ensuring a safe and secure environment.

Here are important concerns to address when seeking insurance for your concert venue business:

  • General Liability Insurance: Obtain comprehensive general liability insurance to protect against claims for bodily injury or property damage that may occur during events.
  • Professional Liability Insurance: Consider professional liability insurance to safeguard your venue against potential lawsuits arising from negligence or errors in providing services.
  • Property Insurance: Ensure adequate insurance coverage to protect your concert venue and its contents in case of damage or theft.
  • Venue Cancellation Insurance: Consider coverage for event cancellations or postponements due to unforeseen circumstances, ensuring financial protection in case of unexpected disruptions.
  • Liquor Liability Insurance: If your concert venue serves alcohol, obtain liquor liability insurance to protect against liabilities resulting from alcohol-related incidents.
  • Workers’ Compensation Insurance: If you have employees, workers’ compensation insurance is essential to cover medical expenses and lost wages for work-related injuries.
  • Cyber Liability Insurance: If you handle customer data or conduct online transactions, consider cyber liability insurance to protect against data breaches and cyber-attacks.
  • Equipment Insurance: Ensure that your equipment, including sound systems, lighting, and other technical assets, is adequately insured against damage or theft.
  • Vehicle Insurance: If your concert venue owns or operates vehicles, obtain commercial auto insurance to protect against accidents and liabilities.
  • Insurance Bundling: Consider bundling various insurance policies with one provider to lower costs and simplify administration.
  • Review Coverage Limits: Assess coverage limits to ensure they adequately protect your concert venue and its assets.
  • Expert Guidance: Seek advice from a competent insurance broker who understands the unique needs of concert venues to help you navigate the insurance process and secure sufficient coverage for your business.

By addressing these insurance considerations, you can protect your concert venue business from potential risks and liabilities, providing peace of mind while delivering memorable experiences to your patrons.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for concert venue business insurance .

16. Select Suppliers

Selecting Suppliers for Your Concert Venue Business

The Importance of Strong Supplier Relationships

Establishing strong relationships with your suppliers is vital for the success of your concert venue business.

Having reliable and trustworthy suppliers is key to ensuring smooth operations and customer satisfaction.

Benefits of Choosing the Right Suppliers

Partnering with the right suppliers can offer competitive prices, allowing you to offer attractive deals to your customers and improve your profit margin.

Moreover, dependable suppliers will ensure that you always have an adequate stock of essential items to run your concert venue efficiently.

Maintaining Positive Supplier Relationships

Treating your suppliers respectfully and ensuring they benefit financially from the partnership is crucial.

This approach fosters a mutually beneficial working relationship, leading to better services and support from your suppliers.

By carefully selecting and maintaining positive relationships with your suppliers, your concert venue business can operate seamlessly, deliver exceptional experiences to your patrons, and thrive in the competitive entertainment industry.

For More See, How To Choose a Supplier.

17. Physical Setup

A concert venue’s physical setup is crucial for ensuring a seamless experience for both artists and audiences.

The layout encompasses the stage, seating or standing areas, acoustics, lighting setups, backstage areas, and emergency exits.

Efficient circulation spaces, accessibility features, and comfort amenities further enhance the overall functionality and appeal of the venue.

Signage plays a pivotal role in guiding attendees throughout a concert venue.

Beyond the main marquee announcing the venue’s name and featured artists, strategic signs are placed in essential spots such as parking zones, exits, and unique designated areas like VIP sections.

Properly designed and positioned signs ensure smooth traffic flow and safety and show professionalism that patrons appreciate.

Office Setup:

An office within a concert venue serves as the administrative heart of the business.

With management responsibilities consuming a significant chunk of time, an organized office space is paramount.

To optimize productivity, this space should be outfitted with all necessary tools, including computers, communication devices, and file systems, ensuring effective and efficient business operations.

See, Here are Considerations for The Setup of Your Office, for tips and ideas to make your office work for you. Also, have a look at our article About Company Signs.

18. Creating a Website

The Benefits of Having a Website for Your Concert Venue Business

A website for your concert venue business offers numerous advantages, enabling you to connect with your audience, boost your online presence, and expand your marketing efforts.

Enhanced Visibility and Accessibility

A website allows potential customers to find and learn about your concert venue anytime, anywhere.

It enhances your venue’s visibility, making it easily accessible to a broader audience, including tourists and out-of-town visitors.

Information Hub for Events and Services

Your website is an information hub for upcoming events, ticket sales, venue details, and services offered.

It provides a centralized platform for your audience to stay updated on the latest concerts and performances.

Improved Customer Engagement

You can engage with your audience through your website by showcasing photos, videos, and testimonials from past events.

This interactive approach builds excitement and encourages potential attendees to experience your concert venue.

Marketing Tool and Thought Leadership

Your website can serve as a powerful marketing tool. By incorporating a blog, you can establish yourself as an expert in the concert industry.

Blogging about relevant topics and offering valuable tips tailored to your customers builds trust and credibility, potentially leading to increased ticket sales.

Seamless Online Ticket Sales

An integrated ticketing system on your website simplifies the ticket purchasing process for your customers, encouraging more frequent visits to your concert venue.

Collecting Customer Feedback

Utilize your website to gather feedback from attendees, enabling you to understand their preferences and improve the overall concert experience.

Amplified Social Media Presence

Your website is a focal point for linking to your social media channels, amplifying your online presence and encouraging audience engagement.

In conclusion, a well-designed website for your concert venue business is invaluable.

It expands your reach, boosts marketing efforts, establishes credibility, and fosters customer loyalty, ultimately contributing to the growth and success of your concert venue in the competitive entertainment industry.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Create an External Support Team

Building an External Support Team for Your Concert Venue Business

An external support team of professionals is a group of individuals you can rely on for valuable advice and services without them being on your payroll .

Importance of a Dependable Support Team

Having a dedicated team of external experts is crucial for the success of your concert venue business. These professionals offer specialized skills and knowledge, complementing your own expertise.

Flexible Services and Professional Relationships

Ideally, you can utilize their services per-use, contractual, or hourly.

While you may already be collaborating with some individuals, recognizing them as part of your team enhances your understanding of their significance. It opens the possibility of adding more members over time.

Gradual Development of the Support Team

You don’t need all the team members in place before starting your concert venue. Building professional relationships and establishing trust with these experts takes time, but it’s an ongoing effort that yields long-term benefits.

Key Members of Your External Support Team

Your external support team may include the following:

  • An accountant to manage financial matters and tax planning.
  • A lawyer to handle legal aspects and contracts.
  • A financial advisor to provide expert guidance on financial decisions.
  • A marketing specialist to develop effective promotional strategies.
  • Technical advisors to assist with audio and visual equipment setups.
  • Consultants with industry-specific expertise to offer valuable insights.

By assembling a strong external support team, your concert venue business gains access to knowledge and resources.

These experts can be there when you need them, providing essential assistance and contributing to your concert venue’s overall success and growth in the competitive entertainment industry.

For more, see, Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

20. Hiring Employees

Building a Team for Your Concert Venue Business

In the early stages of your concert venue business, handling everything yourself may seem feasible to avoid the expenses of hiring employees.

While this approach can work initially, as your business grows, you might find it challenging to manage and operate it single-handedly.

Hiring employees can significantly improve productivity and overall efficiency if you bring on board the right people.

List of Jobs Needed to Run a Concert Venue Business:

The following are job positions or outsourced services you may want to consider as your concert venue business grows and becomes successful:

  • Event Manager: Oversee the planning and execution of concerts and events, ensuring seamless operations and customer satisfaction.
  • Marketing Manager: Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote upcoming events and attract a broader audience.
  • Ticketing and Box Office Staff: Manage ticket sales, handle customer inquiries, and ensure smooth box office operations.
  • Venue Operations Staff: Take care of day-to-day venue management, including setup, maintenance, and logistical arrangements.
  • Security Personnel: Ensure the safety and security of patrons during concerts and events.
  • Sound and Lighting Technicians: Handle technical aspects of sound and lighting equipment during performances.
  • Hospitality and Catering Staff: Provide hospitality services and manage food and beverage operations during events.
  • Finance and Accounting Specialist: Handle financial matters, budgeting, and bookkeeping.
  • Customer Service Representatives: Assist patrons with inquiries and ensure a positive concert experience.
  • Event Coordinator: Coordinate logistics and communication with artists, performers, and event vendors.
  • Public Relations Specialist: Manage media relations and handle press releases to create positive publicity for your concert venue.
  • Cleaning and Maintenance Crew: Keep the venue clean and well-maintained for a pleasant experience for attendees.

As your concert venue business grows, having the right team in place can contribute to its success and allow you to focus on delivering exceptional live music experiences to your audience.

For more, see, How and When to Hire a New Employee.

Points To Consider

Hours of operation:.

Hours of Operation for a Concert Venue Business

  • Event Hours: The primary hours of operation for a concert venue business are typically based on the scheduled events and performances. These hours can vary depending on the concert start times and the duration of the performances.
  • Pre-Event Preparation: Consider additional hours needed, including setting up the stage, sound systems, lighting, and other technical arrangements before each concert.
  • Post-Event Cleanup: After each event, allocate time for post-event cleanup and venue restoration to ensure a clean and organized space for future concerts.
  • Box Office Hours: Determine when the box office will be open for ticket sales and customer inquiries, especially leading up to events and on event days.
  • Venue Tours: If offering venue tours to potential clients or patrons, establish designated hours for conducting these tours.
  • Rehearsal Hours: If your concert venue allows for artist rehearsals, decide on designated hours for these practice sessions.
  • Special Events and Private Rentals: Consider extending hours of operation for special events, private rentals, or corporate functions hosted at your concert venue.
  • Extended Hours for Festivals or Multi-Day Events: For music festivals or multi-day events, adjust your hours of operation to accommodate the duration of the event.
  • Off-Days: Determine days when your concert venue will be closed to the public, providing time for maintenance, rest, and staff scheduling.
  • Seasonal Variations: Consider any seasonal variations in operating hours, especially if your concert venue hosts outdoor events during certain months.

It’s essential to strike a balance between accommodating concert-goers and performers while managing operational costs effectively.

Be flexible with your hours of operation to cater to the needs of your audience and maintain a successful concert venue business.

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for a Concert Venue Business:

Sound System:

  • Main speakers
  • Microphones (wired and wireless)
  • Microphone stands
  • Direct boxes
  • Signal processors (compressors, equalizers, etc.)
  • Cables and connectors

Lighting Equipment:

  • Stage lights (spotlights, wash lights, moving lights)
  • Lighting control board
  • Lighting trusses and stands
  • Lighting gels and filters
  • Fog machines or haze generators
  • DMX cables and connectors

Stage Equipment:

  • Stage platforms
  • Stage risers or extensions
  • Stage drapes and backdrops
  • Stage skirting

Audio Visual Equipment:

  • Projection screens
  • Video switchers
  • Video cameras
  • Video cables and connectors

Seating and Furniture:

  • Chairs or seating arrangements for audience
  • Tables for merchandise or concessions
  • VIP seating or lounges

Ticketing and Box Office Equipment:

  • Ticketing system software
  • Ticketing terminals or kiosks
  • Cash registers or POS systems
  • Receipt printers
  • Ticket scanners

Safety and Security Equipment:

  • Surveillance cameras
  • Security monitors
  • Security personnel communication devices
  • Emergency exit signs and lighting
  • First aid kits and medical supplies

Communications Equipment:

  • Two-way radios or walkie-talkies
  • Intercom system for staff communication

Stage and Backstage Equipment:

  • Backstage dressing rooms or green rooms
  • Backstage mirrors and vanity tables
  • Backstage refrigerator or catering area
  • Backstage equipment storage

Venue Signage:

  • Exterior venue signage
  • Directional signage for restrooms, exits, and facilities

Venue Decoration and Aesthetics:

  • Decorative elements (such as curtains, banners, or artwork) to enhance the venue’s ambiance.

Power Distribution:

  • Power distribution units or power conditioners to manage electricity supply to equipment.

Cleaning and Maintenance Equipment:

  • Cleaning supplies for maintaining the cleanliness of the venue and equipment.

This comprehensive list covers the essential equipment needed for a concert venue business.

The specific equipment required may vary based on the size and scale of the venue and the types of events hosted.

Marketing Considerations

Attracting Customers to Your Concert Venue Business

In the concert venue business, customers are the lifeblood of your success. Initially, it can be challenging to attract customers since your operation is new and awareness is limited.

However, attracting customers becomes easier as you build a strong reputation over time.

You’ll refine your strategies with experience gained from previous marketing efforts for greater effectiveness.

Marketing your concert venue is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and adaptability. The more you invest in effective marketing techniques, the more revenue your venue will likely generate.

While hiring a marketing agency or expert is an option, it’s not always necessary. You can handle marketing in-house or explore creative ways to promote your concert venue.

Simplify your marketing process by focusing on creating awareness about your business.

Take advantage of every opportunity to showcase your venue and events through online platforms, local promotions, partnerships, or community engagement.

By actively working to attract customers and consistently promoting your concert venue, you can steadily grow your audience and establish a thriving and successful business in the competitive entertainment industry.

See our article How To Get Customers Through the Door

Potential Referral Partners for a Concert Venue Business

Event Planners:

Collaborating with event professionals can yield consistent referrals, as they often seek out dependable venues for various occasions.

Benefit Offered:

Reduced venue booking fee for repeat business or priority scheduling.

Music Schools:

Local institutions might want to hold concerts or recitals at your venue.

Special rates for student performances or opportunities for students to play before major acts.

Local Radio Stations:

A partnership can result in station-sponsored events at your venue.

Cross-promotion – their station gets plugs during your events and highlights your venue during broadcasts.

Wedding Planners:

Unique venues for wedding ceremonies or receptions are always in demand.

Package deals that might include lighting, decor, or catering collaborations.

Corporate Event Organizers:

From team-building events to product launches, companies often seek out venues.

Discounts for multiple bookings or built-in tech support for corporate presentations.

Travel and Tourism Agencies:

Your venue could be pitched as a premier entertainment spot for tourists.

A small commission on ticket sales or promotional bundles.

Local Hotels:

Tourists frequently rely on hotel recommendations for local entertainment spots.

Exclusive discounts for hotel guests or promotional packages.

Universities and Colleges:

Educational institutions may want to host cultural nights, graduation parties, or other events at your venue.

Reduced rates during off-peak times or collaboration in promoting university events.

Building symbiotic relationships with these businesses expands your concert venue’s reach and establishes it as a community-centric space. Tailoring mutual benefits can foster long-lasting and fruitful partnerships.

Marketing Offers

Irresistible Offers for New and Existing Customers

For New Customers:

  • Introductory Discounts: Offer first-time visitors a discount on their initial ticket purchase.
  • Bundle Deals: Provide a package deal that includes a ticket, a drink, and a snack at a reduced combined price.
  • Referral Bonuses: Encourage word-of-mouth by offering discounts to those who bring new attendees to the venue.
  • Complimentary Backstage Tours: Give newcomers a behind-the-scenes look to enhance their first-time experience.

For Existing Customers:

  • Loyalty Programs: After a certain number of shows attended, offer a free ticket or exclusive seating.
  • Early Access: Give dedicated patrons first dibs on tickets for high-demand shows.
  • Exclusive Merchandise: Offer limited-edition merchandise available only to frequent attendees.
  • Members-Only Events: Hold special events or shows just for members or loyal customers.

Sample Classified Ads for a Concert Venue Business

  • “Electrifying Nights Await!” Discover the city’s best live music at [Venue Name]. Experience unforgettable performances this weekend!
  • “Where Music Comes Alive!” Step into [Venue Name] and feel the rhythm. Exclusive discounts for first-time attendees.
  • “Sonic Bliss Awaits You!” Join us at [Venue Name] for an immersive musical experience. Check out this month’s line-up now!
  • “Epic Tunes, Epic Times!” Dive into a world of musical wonder at [Venue Name]. Secure your spot now!
  • “Unlock Musical Magic!” Every night is a journey at [Venue Name]. Don’t miss out; book your tickets today!

Simple Marketing Ideas for Your Concert Venue Business

  • Local Partnerships: Collaborate with nearby businesses like restaurants and cafes for mutual promotions.
  • Social Media Countdowns: Generate buzz by counting down days to a significant event or concert on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
  • Pop-Up Events: To draw attention, hold unexpected mini-concerts or open mics in popular local areas.
  • Engage with Music Bloggers: Have local music influencers review or promote your venue and upcoming events.
  • Merchandise: Create eye-catching merchandise like t-shirts and caps that fans would love to wear. This not only brings in extra revenue but also serves as free advertising .
  • Attend Local Fairs: Set up a booth at community events or fairs, showcasing upcoming shows and offering on-the-spot ticket deals.

Remember, the essence of successful marketing lies in understanding your audience and constantly innovating to keep them engaged and excited.

See our marketing section for articles that will provide ideas to bring awareness to your business.

Overview: Importance of Skill Set Evaluation for Running a Concert Venue Business

Evaluating your skill set is crucial before starting a concert venue business. It ensures you have the necessary competencies to manage the venture effectively. If you lack a key skill, consider either acquiring it through learning or hiring someone with the expertise.

List of Essential Skills for a Concert Venue Business Owner

  • Event Management: Ability to plan and organize various concerts and events smoothly.
  • Financial Management: Skills in budgeting, financial planning, and bookkeeping for the venue.
  • Marketing and Promotion: Competence in developing effective marketing strategies to attract audiences and promote events.
  • Communication: Strong communication skills to liaise with artists, vendors, staff, and patrons.
  • Customer Service: Ability to provide excellent customer service to enhance the concert experience.
  • Negotiation: Skill in negotiating contracts with artists, suppliers, and sponsors.
  • Time Management: Efficiently manage time to handle multiple events and tasks.
  • Problem Solving: Quick and effective problem-solving abilities to address issues that may arise during events.
  • Technical Knowledge: Understanding of audio-visual equipment and technical aspects of stage production.
  • Leadership: Capability to lead and motivate a team of staff and volunteers.
  • Flexibility: Adaptability to handle unexpected changes and challenges in the entertainment industry.
  • Legal Awareness: Basic knowledge of legal requirements and contracts related to event management.

By possessing these essential skills or being willing to acquire them, you can ensure your concert venue business’s smooth and successful operation.

Expert Tips

Improving Your Skill Set with Expert Tips

Whether you’re an expert or a novice in the concert venue business, seeking expert tips can enhance your skills and knowledge.

Experts can discover new techniques, while novices can gain valuable insights to improve their expertise.

See the latest search results for expert concert venue tips to gain tips and insights.

Valuable Resources for Your Concert Venue Business

This section presents resources that provide the latest and most popular information in the concert venue industry.

These resources are beneficial during the startup phase and when your business is fully operational.

By utilizing these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of the industry, access valuable tips, and continually improve your concert venue business. Stay informed and updated with the help of these valuable resources to ensure the success and growth of your venture.

Trends and Statistics

Understanding the Benefits of Industry Trends and Statistics for Your Concert Venue Business

Examining industry trends and statistics provides valuable insights into the concert venue business.

It helps identify market opportunities, customer preferences, and potential areas for growth and improvement.

Staying informed about industry developments ensures a competitive edge in the entertainment market.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the concert venue industry.

Concert Venue Associations

Exploring the Advantages of Trade Associations for Your Concert Venue Business

Trade associations offer valuable benefits, such as keeping you informed about industry news and providing networking opportunities.

Participating in their organized events can further enhance these advantages, fostering growth and connections within the concert venue industry.

See the search results related to concert venue associations.

Top Concert Venue Business

Gaining Insights from Established Concert Venue Businesses

Analyzing established concert venue businesses can inspire innovative ideas to fill industry gaps or identify overlooked aspects in your own venture.

Learning from successful models can guide you towards improvements and unique offerings in your business.

See the latest search results for the top concert venue businesses.

The Future of the Concert Venue Industry

Understanding the Advantages of Researching the Industry’s Future for Starting a Concert Venue Business

Researching the industry’s future offers aspiring concert venue business owners valuable insights.

It helps anticipate emerging trends, potential challenges, and growth opportunities, providing a strategic advantage in the dynamic entertainment market.

See the search results for the future of the concert venue industry.

Concert Venue Businesses for Sale

Considering the Pros and Cons of Buying an Existing Concert Venue Business

When deciding between buying an established concert venue business or starting from scratch, there are important factors to consider.

Advantages of Buying an Established Concert Venue Business:

  • Immediate Revenue: You start earning revenue from the day you take over, bypassing the startup phase.
  • Proven Success: The business has a track record, and you know it works with established revenue, profit, and expenses.
  • Existing Customer Base: You already have a built-in customer base, saving time and effort in attracting patrons.
  • Reputation: The business has built a reputation which can contribute to its success.

Disadvantages of Buying an Established Concert Venue Business:

  • Higher Cost: The purchase price is often higher due to the goodwill, which includes acquiring the customer base.
  • Resistance to Change: If you want to implement significant changes, it may lead to customer loss and challenges.
  • Inherited Reputation: Purchasing the business means taking on its existing reputation, both positive and negative.

Even if there are no exact matches for a concert venue business for sale, exploring available options within the same industry can provide valuable insights. Use the following link to explore opportunities in the concert venue business sector.

Businesses for sale: See the latest results for a concert venue business and others related to this business model.

Franchise Opportunities Related to a Concert Venue

Considering the Pros and Cons of Buying a Concert Venue Franchise

Before starting a concert venue business, exploring the option of buying a franchise is worth considering, with both benefits and drawbacks to weigh.

Pros of Buying a Concert Venue Franchise:

  • Proven Business Model: You can follow the established plan provided by the corporate office, minimizing guesswork.
  • Existing Reputation and Marketing: Benefit from the franchise’s established reputation and marketing efforts.
  • In-depth Knowledge: You gain insights into the business before diving in, enhancing decision-making.
  • Corporate Support: Enjoy support and guidance from the corporate office.

Cons of Buying a Concert Venue Franchise:

  • Cost Considerations: Acquiring a franchise can be expensive due to licensing fees and initial investments.
  • Limited Autonomy: Major changes require corporate approval, limiting entrepreneurial freedom.
  • Restricted Offerings: You must adhere to approved products and services, limiting flexibility.
  • Contractual Obligations: Operations must align with the franchise agreement, leaving little room for deviation.
  • Ongoing Fees: Franchisees typically pay ongoing franchise fees for continued support and use of the brand.

Even if there are no exact matches for a concert venue franchise, exploring other opportunities in the entertainment industry may uncover related possibilities. Utilize the following link to discover potential franchises in the concert venue business sector.

See the latest search results for franchise opportunities related to this industry.

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

Harnessing Knowledge for Your Concert Venue Business

Utilizing knowledge is a powerful tool for success in the concert venue industry.

Online resources offer a wealth of valuable information that can aid you during research, startup, and full operational phases of your business.

Follow the links in the following sections to access essential insights to guide your concert venue venture effectively.

Stay informed and empowered with industry knowledge at your fingertips.

Concert Venue Managers Interviews

Gaining Insights from Concert Venue Business Owners

Interviews with fellow concert venue business owners provide valuable information and diverse perspectives.

Spending time on this section offers crucial insights into the industry and prepares you for what to expect in your venture.

See the search results related to interviews of concert venue business owners.

Concert Venue Business Insights

Utilizing Tips and Insights for Your Concert Venue Business

Exploring tips and insights can spark great ideas, help you navigate potential pitfalls in managing your concert venue business, and enhance your industry knowledge.

It’s a valuable resource for achieving success and making informed decisions in the entertainment industry.

See the latest search results leading to resources about  Concert Venue Business Insights.

Entertainment and Events Publications

Staying Informed with Concert Venue Business Publications

Publications offer an excellent means to stay updated with the latest information about the concert venue business.

They provide valuable insights, trends, and industry news, keeping you informed and well-equipped for success.

See the search results for Entertainment and Events publications.

Entertainment and Events Forums

Engaging in Concert Venue Forums for Industry Insights

Participating in concert venue forums offers access to hot-topic discussions and fosters valuable industry relationships.

Understanding customer perspectives through forums provides invaluable information to enhance your business approach.

See the latest search results related to Entertainment and Events forums.

Benefits of Industry Courses

Industry courses provide excellent opportunities to learn, enhance skills, and stay updated with the latest developments in the field.

They are valuable for professional growth and staying relevant in the industry.

See the latest courses related to Event Management  and our management articles to provide insights and tips on managing Your business.

Concert Venue Blogs

Benefits of Subscribing to Concert Venue Blogs

Subscribing to concert venue blogs offers ideas and industry updates.

By subscribing to various blogs, you can curate a valuable collection that provides a constant flow of relevant information for your business while eliminating less helpful sources.

Look at the latest search results for concert venue blogs to follow.

Entertainment and Events News

Keeping Informed with Entertainment Industry News

Stay updated with the latest developments in the Entertainment and Events industry through news sources.

Set up alerts to receive timely notifications for new media coverage.

Gaining Insights from Concert Venue Industry Videos

Watching videos about the concert venue industry provides valuable tips and insights.

Additionally, related videos on YouTube often offer unexpected topics that broaden your understanding of the business.

See the links to YouTube Videos Below.

  • Videos related to starting a concert venue business can be found here.

Privacy Overview

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Music Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Music Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your music business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their music businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Music business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Musicians First Studio is a startup music company located in Nashville, Tennessee. The company is founded by Michael Smith, an experienced musician who has gained valuable knowledge on how to manage a music business during the past ten years while working at My Music Production & Management, another local music company. Now that Michael has experienced managing a music company, he is ready to start his own business, Musicians First Studio. Michael is confident that his skills as a musician, combined with his understanding of business management, will enable him to run a profitable music company of his own. Michael is recruiting a team of highly qualified professionals to help manage the day-to-day complexities of running a music studio – sales and marketing, production, artist management, music instruction, financial reporting, studio equipment maintenance, and client relations.

Musicians First Studio will provide a full suite of music production, management, and instruction services for both novice and professional musicians in the Nashville area. Musicians First will be the go-to music studio in Nashville for its client-focused services and dedicated professionals who are experienced in all aspects of the music industry. The company will be the ultimate choice for the needs of aspiring and professional musicians.

Product Offering

The following are the services that Musicians First Studio will provide:

  • Artist Management
  • Music Recording, Production, & Post-Production
  • Private Music Lessons & Group Classes
  • Venue Booking & Live Event Management
  • PR & Marketing for New Artists

Customer Focus

Musicians First Studio will target new and experienced musicians in Nashville who are looking for professional production, management, or marketing services. The company will also target aspiring musicians and children looking for music lessons taught by industry veterans. No matter the customer, Musicians First Studio will deliver the best communication, service, and professionalism.

Management Team

Musicians First Studio will be owned and operated by Michael Smith. Michael is a graduate of Tennessee University with a degree in music. He has over ten years of experience working as a manager for another local music studio. Michael will be the company’s chief executive officer. He will oversee the recording/production process, music equipment, and studio staff’s activities.

Michael has recruited his former administrative assistant, Jessica Garcia, to be the company’s chief operating officer and help oversee the studio’s operations. Jessica will handle the day-to-day operations, including budgeting, scheduling, client relations, and logistics.

Michael and Jessica have recruited an experienced marketing director, John Brown, to become a member of the Musicians First Studio management team. John is a graduate of the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in sales and marketing. Michael and Jessica rely on John’s expertise to execute the company’s marketing plan and advertising strategies.

Success Factors

Musicians First Studio will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

  • Skilled team of music production technicians and veteran musicians who will work one-on-one with clients to reach their individual music goals whether they’re looking to record a new album or learn a new instrument.
  • Musicians First Studio is one of the only studio’s in the area that offers a wide range of services for musicians of all skill levels and goals.
  • The company offers competitive pricing and discounts for referrals.

Financial Highlights

Musicians First Studio is seeking $800,000 in debt financing to launch its music business. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the studio and purchasing equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff and marketing expenses. The breakout of the funding is below:

  • Studio build-out: $340,000
  • Music equipment, supplies, and materials: $280,000
  • Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, utilities): $160,000
  • Marketing costs: $10,000
  • Working capital: $10,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Musicians First Studio.

Company Overview

Who is musicians first studio.

Musicians First Studio is a newly established music company in Nashville, Tennessee. Musicians First will be the first choice for aspiring, novice, and experienced musicians in Nashville and the surrounding communities for its full-suite of professional services provided by industry veterans. The company will provide a wide range of services including recording/production, music lessons, artist management, and marketing for new musicians.

Musicians First Studio will be able to guarantee high quality production thanks to the latest and most innovative music technology operated by expert music production technicians. The company’s team of highly qualified professionals experienced in music, production, and marketing will manage the suite of services offered at the studio. In addition to customized services for musicians, customers will be able to book studio time that comes with use of equipment by the hour.

Musicians First Studio History

Musicians First Studio is owned and operated by Michael Smith, an experienced musician who has gained valuable knowledge on how to manage a music business during the past ten years while working at My Music Production & Management, another local music company. Now that Michael has experienced managing a music company, he is ready to start his own business, Musicians First Studio. Michael is confident that his skills as a musician, combined with his understanding of business management, will enable him to run a profitable music company of his own. Michael is recruiting a team of highly qualified professionals to help manage the day-to-day complexities of running a music studio – sales and marketing, production, artist management, music instruction, financial reporting, studio equipment maintenance, and vendor relations.

Since incorporation, Musicians First Studio has achieved the following milestones:

  • Registered Musicians First Studio, LLC to transact business in the state of Tennessee
  • Has identified an ideal location for the studio that is available for lease
  • Reached out to numerous contacts to include local musicians, production technicians, and venue managers to help spread the word about the new studio
  • Began recruiting a staff of musicians, music instructors, production technicians, marketing experts, and office personnel to work at Musicians First Studio.

Musicians First Studio Services

Industry analysis.

The global music industry is an estimated $60B market and is expected to grow by 8% by 2026. The broad music industry can be categorized into three primary segments; recording, live music, and music publishing. In the United States, the recording segment generated approximately $8B in revenues last year, while the live music segment brought in an estimated $9.5B, and the publishing segment totaled $1.8B. A majority of revenues generated in the recording segment come from streaming (28% of total industry revenue), with digital downloads and physical media coming in much lower (6.7% and 7.5% respectively). Revenue for the live music segment is generated primarily through ticket sales (37.1%) and sponsorships (10.3%). Publishing accounts for approximately 8.9% of total industry revenue.

Music streaming is one of the most significant trends in the industry, with the number of Americans who pay for streaming subscriptions at approximately 82.1M, up from 7.9M in 2014. Another trend is the emergence of independent artists and small record labels. These groups are earning more revenue than in years past and their percentage of revenue increase year over year is growing faster than that of larger record labels. With more options open to them when it comes to where and how to get their music out to consumers, artists, managers, and record labels have more opportunities for success than ever before.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

The precise demographics for Nashville, Tennessee are:

Customer Segmentation

Musicians First will primarily target the following customer profiles:

  • Novice-to-experienced musicians looking for recording/production services
  • Aspiring musicians of all ages looking for music lessons
  • Musicians looking for artist management, booking, and representation services

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Musicians First Studio will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

My Music Production & Management

My Music Production & Management is one of the largest commercial music studios in Tennessee. The company was established in 1997 and offers professional music recording and production services for local musicians. My Music Production & Management also handles the business management activities for musicians including marketing, booking, and legal representation services. The company is well known for providing high quality production for some of the top artists in the region and has been recognized in various publications and music industry associations for its outstanding work in the local music community.

Genre Music

Founded in 2018, Genre Music is a small music company catering to local musicians in Nashville, Tennessee and surrounding areas. Genre Music is owned and operated by a veteran musician who has over 40 years of experience in the music industry. The company specializes in artist branding, marketing, and representation in addition to its top notch recording services. Genre Music has worked with a variety of up and coming artists in multiple genres and has a loyal customer base of regular musicians who use the company’s services.

Retro Recording & Productions

Retro Recording & Productions is a trusted Nashville, Tennessee-based music company that provides superior production and recording services for Nashville and the surrounding areas. The company is able to provide a wide variety of recording, production, and post-production services using its state-of-the-art music recording equipment. Retro Recording & Productions serves local musicians and national musicians. The company prides itself on being the number one choice for classic sound produced through modern technology. Retro Recording & Productions also manufactures its own collectible vinyl records in limited quantities.

Competitive Advantage

Musicians First Studio will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

  • The company offers competitive pricing on studio rentals and discounts for referrals.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Musicians First Studio will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

  • Musicians First Studio provides a full suite of services tailored to the individual musician’s needs. Professionals are equipped to provide services for all skill levels from the aspiring and novice musician, the the industry veteran.
  • The company’s studio is expertly designed for the clearest sound quality. The equipment is carefully selected to ensure the best sound possible.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Musicians First Studio is as follows:

Social Media Marketing

The company’s marketing director will create accounts on social media platforms such as Linkedin, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. He will ensure Musicians First maintains an active social media presence with regular updates and fun content to get customers excited about using the studio’s services.

Professional Associations and Networking

Musicians First Studio will become a member of professional associations such as the Nashville Music Association, American Music Educators Society, and the Tennessee Music Production Association. The leadership team will focus their networking efforts on expanding the company’s artist and vendor network.

Print Advertising

Musicians First Studio will invest in professionally designed print ads to display in programs or flyers at industry networking events. The company will also send direct mailers to local residents advertising the services it provides.

Website/SEO Marketing

Musicians First Studio will utilize the in-house marketing director that designed the print ads to also design the company website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all the services that Musicians First is able to provide. The website will also list information on the company’s events and featured artists.

The marketing director will also manage Musicians First’s website presence with SEO marketing tactics so that when someone types in a search engine “music company” or “music studio near me”, Musicians First Studio will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Musicians First Studio will be on par with competitors so customers feel they receive value when purchasing the company’s services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Musicians First Studio.

Operation Functions:

  • Michael Smith will be the CEO of the company. He will oversee the music production technicians, production process, and the music equipment maintenance. Michael has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
  • Jessica Garcia – Chief Operating Officer who will manage the day-to-day operations, client relationships, scheduling, and logistics.
  • Nancy Johnson – Chief Financial Officer who will provide all accounting, budgeting, tax payments, and monthly financial reporting.
  • John Brown – Marketing Director who will oversee all marketing strategies for the company and manage the website, social media, and outreach.

Milestones:

Musicians First Studio will have the following milestones complete in the next six months.

12/1/2022 – Finalize lease to rent the studio facility

12/15/2022 – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for the Musicians First Studio management team

1/1/2023 – Begin build-out of the studio, purchase equipment, and test the acoustics

1/15/2023 – Begin networking at industry events and implement the marketing plan

2/15/2023 – Finalize contracts for musicians, instructors, production technicians, and marketing professionals

3/15/2023 – Musicians First Studio officially opens for business

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Musicians First Studio are the fees charged to customers in exchange for the company’s services and fees charged to book studio time by the hour.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff a music company. The expenses will be the payroll cost, utilities, equipment and supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

  • Average hours booked per month: 120
  • Average fees per month: $30,000
  • Overhead costs per year: $640,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, music business plan faqs, what is a music business plan.

A music business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your music business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your music business plan using our Music Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Music Companies?

There are a number of different kinds of music companies , some examples include: Recorded Music, Music Licensing, Live Music, Music Publishing, Music Production, Music Business Consulting, and Retail Music Store.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Music Business Plan?

Music companies are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

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Music Theater Business Plan

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Market Plaza Showplace

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

Family Fair, Incorporated desires to purchase the vacant Market Plaza Theater and operate it as the “Market Plaza Showplace” (Showplace), a live performance center in the densely populated Market Plaza community of Trinity, Texas. The facility is located amid retail shops and restaurants in the thriving Market Plaza Business Center, Family Fair will restore it for qualification as a historical landmark. There is no operation of this type in the immediate area, and live entertainment available in the community is limited to local clubs and bars.

The Showplace will offer high-quality, wholesome, and affordable live entertainment in a clean, quaint, and elegant facility. It will bring family-oriented live entertainment to those in the community who would otherwise travel to other cities for such enjoyment.

The operation will generate immediate cash and an excellent return for its shareholders. Revenues projected in this plan are based conservatively on two regular shows per week and a minimum of special events. No revenue is projected for special artist showcases, weekday “Branson, Missouri” type productions, or holiday season special presentations. In addition to revenues generated by regular showcases, the facility will be marketed to large businesses for special corporate events and will be available for special private event scheduling. Other revenue producing operations will be added later, such as audio and video recording services, sponsored broadcasts, and possible syndication of productions.

The Family Fair executive team has the expertise, experience, and commitment to make the venture a highly successful operation. The venue will quickly become an entertainment “hot spot” in the Southwest with national exposure. Supporting financial information is included in the appendix.

Music theater business plan, executive summary chart image

1.1 Mission

Family Fair, Inc. produces high quality, affordable entertainment in the elegant Market Plaza Showplace. It brings family-oriented live entertainment in a private function facility accessible to those who would otherwise travel out of the community to enjoy similar activities. The operation makes exceptional profit and generates immediate cash. It provides a glamorous and rewarding work environment for performers and employees, an excellent return to its owners, and offers entertainment events to remember and frequent.

1.2 Objectives

  • To launch the venue with a highly publicized “Grand Opening” event.
  • To produce a healthy net profit in the first year of operation.
  • To double gross sales by the second year of operation.

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Company summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">.

Family Fair, Inc. is a new company that will provide live entertainment and a special events facility in a former movie theater. The facility is located in a thriving business center in the midst of a densely and diversely populated community in Trinity, Texas. The operation focuses primarily on:

  • Providing regular live musical entertainment in a variety of family-oriented, wholesome themes from country music to Hispanic, pop, blues, gospel, and “Branson, Missouri” type legends productions.
  • Providing a live performance center not already available in the community.

2.1 Company Ownership

Family Fair, Inc. will be created as a closely-held private Texas S corporation based in Trinity County, to be owned by its founder and principal investors. The founder, Mary Ellen Garner, is seeking private investors for funding 35% of the project and holding a 35% share of the company. Ms. Garner currently owns Pro Power Productions, a small but successful company specializing in sound recording production, artist development, and concert promotion which would become a DBA of Family Fair, Inc.

2.2 Start-up Summary

Of the projected start-up expenses, a little less than half are consultant fees. The remainder are professional fees (legal, accounting, stationery, advertising for opening event, office rent, expensed equipment, start-up salaries, and contingencies. The founder and Board of Directors will finance a portion of the start-up expenses.

The cost of start-up assets needed comes to $979,000 which includes $550,000 for facility purchase, $373,000 for facility rehabilitation and operating equipment, and $56,000 for initial operating capital and prepaid expenses.

Start-up financing is planned as follows: The founder of Family Fair, a minority female, and the Board of Directors will invest toward start-up expenses. The company is seeking private investors for another portion of the total funding required with proportionate ownership of the company. It is planned to seek a low-interest, long-term mortgage for the improved facility. The founder and majority stockholder, Mary Garner, qualifies as a minority female business owner with excellent credit history, and is eligible for the best interest rate and terms with the SBA or other mortgage companies. As an option for investors to secure their investment with real estate equity, the mortgage will be negotiated as transferable to investors.

These assumptions are shown in the following table.

Music theater business plan, company summary chart image

2.3 Company Locations and Facilities

The Market Plaza Theater is located at 150 Market Plaza in Trinity, Texas. Family Fair proposes to purchase the 11,385 sq. ft. building and associated land area (18,923 sq. ft.).

The facility is structurally sound and was built in 1946 for movie theater operations. The theater property also includes a large neon lighted art-deco marquee-type sign near the busy intersection. A commercial appraisal has not been acquired by Family Fair, but the purchase price of the facility and associated real estate is consistent with current tax appraisal for the vacant facility. A commercial appraisal will be arranged upon request by a potential investor or mortgagor.

The rehabilitation of the facility will be accomplished in a manner consistent with city guidelines to qualify as an historical landmark which will provide a moratorium on city property taxes for 10 years. The Trinity Historical Society is anxious to sponsor this theater as an historical landmark. Internally, the theater will be renovated (seats restored, stage constructed, etc.) and the latest technology in sound and lighting equipment will be added. Dressing room facilities will be constructed in the renovation phase of rehabilitation.

The Showplace will offer live, wholesome entertainment in a quaint former movie theater in a densely populated community. Regular entertainment events will offer exciting presentations that will begin the moment a patron enters the facility, even before the main event. This type of entertainment is not available in the area at this time.

Family Fair will solicit, arrange and host corporate and private special events in the Showplace facility.

Family Fair will add other revenue producing services to compliment the base operation, such as local merchant advertising, special presentations, audio and video recording services, and other logical services as the demand arises.

3.1 Service Description

  • The Showplace offers family-oriented entertainment in the form of regular live musical performances by local and touring artists and musicians. The average price is $12.00 per ticket. The venue will interest the majority of the area population because of the variety of show themes to be offered. The venue fills the need for a performance center in the community.
  • The location and appeal of the Showplace facility offers Family Fair the opportunity to solicit, arrange, and host corporate special events. Pricing of this service will vary depending on the number of persons to be accommodated, food or refreshment catering, or other special requirements of the event. Trinity has a large business community and those businesses often use outside facilities for special events. We will market our venue to be included on the off-site preferred list of the majority of large businesses in the area.
  • As in any community, special private events are celebrated by individuals, families, clubs, and other groups in the population. The Showplace facility offers a clean, quaint, and elegant setting, from the dining hall to the 750 seat auditorium. The facility will be more appealing than special events held in church annexes and will be more cost-effective and private than hotel facilities. The pricing for this service will depend on the number of guests, catering, and other requirements.

3.2 Competitive Comparison

Offerings of the Showplace are similar to those in outlying communities who offer live musical performances each weekend. However, their themes are fixed, where ours will be a variety of musical themes, along with ongoing interactive features (magicians, etc.) for appeal to the diverse Market Plaza community. The Showplace ticket pricing is within the price range of  other venues with similar offerings.

The quality of entertainment will be superior to other venues and Family Fair will assure that the appeal of the productions will not become stale. The competition offers the same entertainers and the same themes each week. It is not appealing to see the same show many times over.

The Family Fair executive team enjoys association with the most talented local musicians as well as touring groups to assure an exciting variety of entertainment. The team also enjoys close associations with nationally known entertainers, musicians and producers.

3.3 Sales Literature

The Showplace Sales literature will consist mostly of flyers for distribution in hotel lobbies, retail store stands or direct mailing. An attractive website will provide details of offerings, scheduling, and convenient ticket purchase. Early on, brochures will be developed for distribution to potential corporate customers and tourist agencies.

3.4 Fulfillment

Family Fair intends to use the entertainment associations of the executive team to acquire the services of the best musicians and artists available. The cost of these entertainers is negotiable but is conservatively calculated at 35% of ticket sales. The cost of local entertainers and musicians will be a weekly expenditure, but regular employment will allow negotiation of lower rates due to stability and benefits offered by Family Fair.

3.5 Technology

The Showplace will be equipped with the latest technology in sound and lighting, both of which will be of substantial appeal to customers. Fixtures and equipment accommodations for corporate and private events will be appealing and effective. Internet technology such as ticketing reservations, entertainment schedules and an entertainer slate will be provided.

3.6 Future Services

Family Fair will add other revenue producing services to compliment the base operation. These are not included in the financial plan. Some of the potential future services are listed below.

  • Weekday showcases and special holiday events.
  • Local merchant advertising will include space on our billboard sign in the business center, will be announced during performances, and will be displayed in the theater.
  • Video recordings of artist showcases to be used in promoting their careers in entertainment.
  • Professional record album and demo audio recording services. Family Fair will be in a prime position to secure a share of this business due to location and strong associations with artists (both amateur and professional). Opportunities to negotiate this aspect of the business will be constant with artists appearing at the Showplace.
  • Syndication of programs for distribution to broadcast media, both domestically and internationally.
  • Sponsored programs for radio and television broadcast.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

Family Fair will focus on families and music lovers within the community who frequent such entertainment and also on large businesses to host their special corporate functions. Our most important potential customers are families and young adults who would rather frequent productions in the community than travel several miles for similar entertainment. The numerous “guest home” residences for elderly citizens will be solicited for inclusion on their preferred list of organized entertainment activities for their residents.

4.1 Market Segmentation

  • Families and young adults : Our most important market segment is citizens who desire quality and affordable entertainment in the community. These citizens will be frequenting the regularly scheduled entertainment (primarily music showcases) in Market Plaza to avert driving on freeways to other venues or in downtown traffic with difficult (and generally unsafe) parking conditions.
  • Large businesses and corporations : Our second most important segment is businesses, particularly those who frequently choose outside facilities for special events and celebrations. Family Fair will offer custom entertainment and food service for special events.

Music theater business plan, market analysis summary chart image

4.2 Target Market Segment Strategy

The Showplace cannot survive just waiting for the customer to come to us. Instead, the executive staff must become experts at focusing on the specific market segments whose needs match our offerings. Focusing on targeted segments is the key to our future.

Therefore, we need to focus on our marketing message and entertainment offerings. We must develop our message, communicate it, and make good on it.

4.2.1 Market Trends

Trinity and the surrounding areas have produced several super-star recording artists in the last few years. Most of these acts got their amateur start and professional development by performing in area events like those offered by the Showplace. Having witnessed the good fortune of these artists, potential customers are aware that it could happen again at any time, and that the area is blessed with great talent. They are eager to frequent events where a potential super-star artist performs because it is so much easier to become personal acquaintances with them now than when they move up in their career. The keys to success are to communicate the message that the best of talent will be included in each event and make sure to do so.

4.2.2 Market Growth

The population of the Market Plaza community is expected to remain constant with modest growth due to multi-family development activity. The Showplace expects market growth to occur from outlying suburbs when the word of quality entertainment spreads. Market growth is also expected through solicitation of tour agencies bringing groups through Trinity on senior or institutional tours. Trinity is noted for its business attractions and the addition of large business relocations to the area continues in a big way. Additional large businesses will add to the potential customers for special corporate events.

4.2.3 Market Needs

The Market Plaza community in Trinity, Texas is a densely and diversely populated urban area. Currently, there is not a live performance center in the community for public attendance or private use. The Market Plaza Theater is strategically located in a thriving business center amid numerous popular restaurants and shops. Patrons of this center love its quaintness, physical appeal, and convenience within their community. Personal interviews with patrons of the center indicate a strong desire to see the vacant theater restored for local entertainment offerings.

4.3 Service Business Analysis

Live entertainment available to the community consists of numerous offerings, from broadcast media to high profile concerts in the region. One of Family Fair’s challenges will be establishing our venue as the premier entertainment in the community, offering consistent, high quality entertainment in a clean and appealing facility, and making each event one to remember and frequent. Another challenge will be to attract clients to the facility for scheduling special corporate and private events.

4.3.1 Competition and Buying Patterns

The key element in purchase decisions made by Showplace clients is knowledge that the modest cost of a night of quality entertainment at a location near home is ideal.

Pricing of this type of entertainment varies from $10 to more than $100 in the region. A number of families and individuals are usually willing to pay the ticket price, but the drive to events out of the community and difficult parking accommodations take some of the enjoyment out of the whole affair.

Potential customers currently travel well outside the community to enjoy this style of entertainment. After the Showplace grand opening event, word of mouth recommendations will fill each show from the community, almost immediately. They will select our venue to avoid the drive to other similar events in the region.

4.3.2 Main Competitors

The following is a list of main competitors offering productions similar to the Showplace.

  • Local night clubs : Strengths–serve alcohol for those inclined. Weaknesses–limited seating capacity, limited age groups, dangerous environment.
  • Major artist concerts : Strengths–live performances by major artists. Weaknesses–high ticket costs, excessive travel, unsecure parking accommodations, and infrequent events.
  • Johnny Good’s Music Revue and Grapefield Opry : Strengths–age of business and good quality entertainment at a reasonable cost. Weaknesses–35 miles from the Market Plaza community, limited parking, constant country music theme, average musicians, and ticket availability concerns.

4.3.3 Business Participants

Some communities in the Trinity suburbs have successful weekend venues similar to the Showplace. Live entertainment in urban Trinity, particularly for this community, comes in the form of costly concerts that are either inconvenient or in local nightclubs. The wholesome, family-oriented offering of the Market Plaza Showplace will be welcomed in the community by those who would not frequent night clubs and major artist concerts, and would also be frequented by others because of the reasonable cost and level of talent.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

The Showplace will focus on the general population of the community and surrounding region, and large businesses in the DFW area. Location of the theater facility affords the strongest initial sales factor, then the quality and service of our operation will build strong loyalty and repeat customers. Our productions must live up to our message.

The Family Fair marketing team will initially blitz the community and region with announcements of the grand opening via radio, TV news, newspapers, local publications, solicitation, direct mail, personal calls, email, and fax. We will reach the majority of the area population who will eagerly spread the word.

The theater owns a huge sign that is strategically located at one of the busiest intersections in Trinity. The grand opening announcement will begin on the theater marquee approximately one month before opening.

5.1 Competitive Edge

The main competitor is 35 miles from the community and is sold out regularly. The route is in heavy traffic and parking is sometimes a problem. Therefore, fans of this type of entertainment in our community are expected to choose our venue because we offer more interesting entertainment, we are closer to home, have ample, secure parking, and ticket pricing is the same.

5.2 Sales Strategy

Consistent sales in the live entertainment business depends on quality entertainment at a reasonable price, along with efficient and friendly service. Showplace entertainers and staff will be required to extend exceptional courtesy to customers prior to, during and after each presentation.

The operation must always be sure to provide enjoyable, exciting and quality entertainment as well as excellence and courtesy in performing our ticketing and concession services. Special personal attention will be extended to our customers at all times. Quality entertainment and friendly service will greatly enhance loyalty to the venue.

5.2.1 Sales Forecast

Family Fair senior management prefers to use a conservative sales figure of 700 seats of 750 available per regular production in the first year. Consultants predict a sell-out for each show, beginning in the first month of operation, due to the prime location of the Showplace facility and the small percentage of the population required to produce a sell-out. Also, severe weather is not a major problem in this region and was discounted as a deterrent to attendance. The proximity of the venue to potential customers in the densely populated community is a powerful influence. However, to be conservative, we are projecting sales of 700 seats per show for the first year of the available 750 seats.

Music theater business plan, strategy and implementation summary chart image

5.3 Milestones

The accompanying table lists important project milestones, with dates and managers in charge, and budgets for each. The milestone schedule indicates our emphasis on planning for implementation.

What the table doesn’t show is the commitment behind it and the ability of the executive team to make the project a complete success. Our business plan includes complete provisions for plan-vs.-actual analysis, and the executive staff will meet regularly to discuss the variance and course corrections.

Music theater business plan, strategy and implementation summary chart image

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

The executive management team will consist of majority owner, Mary Ellen Garner , a highly-educated Hispanic female, Marvin E. Carter , former professional musician, businessman, studio owner, record producer and concert promoter, Preston C. Porter , seasoned businessman and investor, Paul DuPont , sound engineer, producer, performing professional musician, and Greg Freeland , music director in Branson, Missouri and performing professional musician.

All members of the executive team have extensive experience, expertise, and network associations in business, education, and all aspects of the entertainment industry. Ms. Garner is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Carter will assume the position of President and Chief Operator, Mr. Porter will assume the position of Vice President and Treasurer and direct the banking and administration activities, Mr. DuPont will direct marketing and administration, and Mr. Freeland will direct the music and event functions. The board of directors will be elected by Ms. Garner and other shareholders from a community of qualified individuals.

Accounting services will be provided by Mercer, Mills and Kern of Trinity, and legal services will be provided by Redford & Marshall, Fort Worth, and Ronald P. Bricker, Attorney, Trinity.

6.1 Organizational Structure

Family Fair, Dba Market Plaza Showplace, has a simple proposed organization. The following is an outline of the proposed organization and responsibilities.

Board of Directors :(Final Board to be elected)

Executive and Operating Team (To be approved by Board of Directors):

Mary Ellen Garner : Founder and Director, President and CEO Responsibilities include the overall legal and financial affairs of the business. Marvin E. Carter : Director, Executive Vice President and Chief Operator Responsibilities include start-up improvements and overall operating activities. Preston C. Porter : Director, Vice President and Treasurer Responsibilities will include banking and financial matters, human resources and administration. Paul DuPont : Director of Marketing and Sales Responsibilities include overall sales and marketing activities of the operation. Greg Freeland : Director of Music and Events Responsibilities include musical arrangements, events productions and tour agency relations.

6.2 Personnel Plan

The following table summarizes our executive personnel expenditures for the first three years. Other staff is considered in the cost of sales calculation and will consist of entertainers, musicians, and event staff. Head count and cost for entertainers and event staff employees are not shown in the Personnel Plan table.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The base operation is a “cash cow” with no accounts receivable or the burdensome collection efforts that accompany A/R management. Future services will be added with positive financial impact to the base operation when opportunities arise.

We expect to add revenue-producing services and activities during the first year that have not been covered in this business plan. These services will be a natural compliment to our operation and significantly add to our base revenue from regular productions. They include audio and video recording services, possible syndication of productions, sponsored radio and/or TV programs, and advertising for local merchants. Financing for new services will be arranged through cash flow, sponsorship, or outside interests.

7.1 Important Assumptions

The financial plan assumes private investor funding, a 15-year facility mortgage and founder investment for consultants, travel, business plan, and other planning costs.

Once in operation, the business will be self-sustaining and require no further financial assistance for this plan. General assumptions follow:

7.2 Break-even Analysis

The following chart and table summarize our Break-even Analysis. We have decided to treat fixed costs for this start-up plan to include the normal running costs each month for a more practical analysis. The average price per unit assumes that standard ticket prices will be $13.00 adults, $12.00 seniors and $11.00 for children under 12 years of age. The variable cost per unit assumes artist and musician fees and sales taxes to average $4.20 per ticket sold. Considering the start-up costs and the conservative position of the plan, we don’t expect to reach break-even until several months into the business operation.

The break-even assumes variable costs as shown below. This assumption is probably too high, and therefore conservative, because it is based on the highest local pay scale for musicians and artists. We will employ high-quality musicians for less than the maximum pay scale.

Also, the effects of additional revenue opportunities are not considered in the Break-even Analysis. The executive team will actively pursue other revenue producing opportunities and expect substantial success in this effort.

Music theater business plan, financial plan chart image

7.3 Projected Profit and Loss

Our projected profit and loss is shown on the following table projecting a reasonable profit the first year. Revenues are conservative as they include only the base operation (two shows per week) and minimal special event hosting. The executive team believes that actual experience will include a minimum of three shows per week with the possibility of daily successful shows and or special events. Increases in the base operation in the second and third years consider sold out performances and additional special and private events.

Our cost of sales should be somewhat lower, and gross margin higher, than in this projection due to our commitment to careful management of entertainer and musician costs. However, we prefer to project conservative so that we maintain a positive cash flow and to allow for less than expected performance.

Dividends are not applicable in an S Corporation. Net earnings are distributed directly to shareholders. However the company will consider shareholder requests to defer income or provide pretax investment opportunities.

The detailed monthly projections are included in the appendix.

Music theater business plan, financial plan chart image

7.4 Projected Cash Flow

The monthly cash flow for the first year is shown in the illustration. The cash flow does not reflect distribution of earnings in the three years depicted. Shareholders may elect full distribution, partial distribution or pretax investment options to be made available by the company. The table that follows includes annual amounts only.

Music theater business plan, financial plan chart image

7.5 Projected Balance Sheet

The balance sheet in the following table shows an attractive growth of net worth, and a healthy financial position with the conservative plan. The executive team believes and has the commitment to exceed the position projected in this plan. The monthly estimates are included in the appendix.

7.6 Business Ratios

The following are several important business ratios for the years of this plan. Industry profile ratios based on the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code 7922, Theatrical Producers and Services, are shown for comparison. No analysis by management is offered at this writing.

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live music venue business plan example

A Straightforward Guide to Bar Management for Music Venues

live music venue business plan example

Making a profit from a small music venue isn’t a simple equation. With overheads that include booking fees, licensing, staff, and more, you need to maximize every source of income to stay in the black.

After all, the average fan spends $34 on tickets for a night out —and nearly as much ($26) on drinks. The trick is knowing how to balance your spending with theirs.  

Artist upfronts and operating expenses can be unpredictable, but your bar costs shouldn’t be. To make sure you’re managing your bar efficiently and profitably, it’s important to understand how much you’re spending—and how to predict what you’ll bring in.

Download our free bar inventory spreadsheet to calculate your liquor costs in minutes. 

The key to effective bar management is forecasting your costs and sales. Here’s how:

Know your pouring cost to optimize your prices

When managing a bar, your pouring cost is one of the most important numbers to know. By using your pouring cost as a benchmark, you can monitor whether or not your bar is generating a consistent profit.

Put most simply, pouring cost is what you paid for an item divided by what you sell it for. Multiply that number by 100 to turn it into a percentage. Here’s an example:

  • A handle of vodka costs you $20
  • You sell 40 servings from that bottle, at $3.50 each
  • That’s means you bring in $140 total ($3.50 x 40)

In this case, your pouring cost is 20 (the cost of the bottle) / 140 (your profit) x 100, or 14.3%.

Pouring cost will vary depending on your mark-ups on beer, wine, and liquor. In general, a pouring cost under 20% is considered reasonable.

Use simple strategies to reduce bar costs

Is your pouring cost above this benchmark? Anything from too many happy hour specials to a bartender who’s over-pouring could be to blame. Or maybe it’s just time to bump up your price per serving a bit. By staying on top of your pouring costs, you can flag issues faster and take action before you go in the red.

Here are a couple of questions to ask when determining the cause of high bar costs:

  • Is your supplier overcharging you? When suppliers increase their prices, it affects your profit margins. You’re more likely to get good service and better deals if you build relationships with regular suppliers—but don’t let yourself be taken advantage of. Get quotes from other suppliers regularly to keep your finger on the pulse of the market. Even if you don’t intend to switch, these quotes can help you negotiate with your current supplier.
  • Is your bar team following standard drink recipes? Make sure all bartenders are following standard recipes for drinks. If a bartender uses double shots instead of single, that doubles your costs. You should also train staff to keep waste to a minimum, with tricks like how to minimize the amount of draft beer that ends up in the drip tray.

Monitor stock turnover to simplify bar management

Keeping your bar well-stocked is a must. You never want to run out of beer on a busy night. But if you overstock, your cash is tied up and you’re more vulnerable to theft.

To simplify stocking, calculate how many times you go through your entire bar stock in a month. For instance, if you sell $5,000 of beer a month, and have stock worth $2,500 at any given point, then you’re turning over stock 2x a month.

Your turnover time may vary, but most bars aim for around 0.5-1.5x a month for spirits, and 1-2x a month for draught beer.

Take the guesswork out of forecasting bar sales

Knowing your busiest nights is vital to stocking accurately, and staffing the bar properly. In the long run, getting good at forecasting can relieve some of the anxiety from your business.

New to forecasting? Here are a couple of simple steps to calculate a forecast:

  • Reference your records. Past performance is your best guide to knowing what might happen in the future. Of course, selling $3,000 of beer last week doesn’t mean you’ll sell the same amount this week, but it can provide useful baselines for what you sell and when. Some point-of-sale systems can help automate this tracking.
  • Use ticket sales to build estimates. By understanding how many tickets have been sold for a night, and your average number of walk-ins, you can estimate how crowded you’ll be that night. Knowing that the average fan spends $26 a night on drinks — and how nightlife spending varies by audience breakdown and genre — you can do a quick and dirty bar forecast: Bar sales = (tickets sold + # of walk-ins) x average customer spend.

This number may not be perfect, but by repeating the exercise several nights in a row, you can start to get a feel for how you can tweak the calculation to most accurately reflect your sales. It’s also natural that this number changes based on the crowd, day of the week, and the season. An older crowd may drink more wine than beer, weekend drinkers may be a bit rowdier than weekday drinkers, and good weather may increase spend if you have an outdoor patio.

Use a bar inventory spreadsheet to save time

To forecast faster and more effectively, it’s worth developing a system and forecasting an entire week or month at a time. Many accounting systems are built for this purpose, but automated spreadsheets can work surprisingly well.

Ready to take your bar management to the next level? Download our free weekly bar inventory spreadsheet to calculate bar costs and forecast sales — without the mental math.

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about the author

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Rachel Grate

Rachel is a writer for Eventbrite, where she regularly interviews organizers of the country's most popular events, from massive music festivals to small food & drink gatherings. She's a live music lover, a foodie, and a big fan of smiles.

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UK Small Business Startups and Funding

  • Business Type
  • Business Plan for Live Music Venue

Live Music Venue Small Business Idea and Business Plan

Starting your own small business in the UK isn’t easy but having a properly developed business plan will help you achieve success.

To start a Live Music Venue business in the UK, take the time and explain the idea via a business plan.

Understanding all of the aspects of the business idea will be the key to getting the Live Music Venue business running like a well-oiled machine. The business plan you develop will help you organize the elements needed into a strategy that you can actually use to startup, by paving a clear road map as to what you need to follow for the lifespan of your business.

Starting a Live Music Venue business isn’t easy, but when done right, it can lead to a lot of success.

To help you get started, you can use the free business plan builder tool to develop your own Live Music Venue business plan.

The business plan template is very easy to use, is interactive and will quickly and easily help you create your business plan just by answering the needed questions about your small business idea.

Create your own Live Music Venue business plan for free using the Business Plan Builder

The free business plan template builder is divided into a few easy to follow steps.

The free business plan builder template is provided by UKStartups.org to help you develop your own business plan. For step by step guidance, see the 5 steps below.

Once completed, the result will be a clean, professional plan that will help you start your own Live Music Venue small business in the UK.

When you have completed your Live Music Venue business plan, the next step will be to find available funding that will help, or to speak with a funding adviser who will assist you each step of the way to securing the needed funds to make your Live Music Venue business startup.

If you are looking to limit your startup costs when starting up a Live Music Venue small business in the UK, this free business plan builder tool will be it.

Starting a Live Music Venue business is only one of the ways others have used this free business plan tool. There are hundreds of different ideas you can start, and if you need guidance, do reach out to a UKStartups expert to get the needed assistance and guidance.

Step 1. Your business information

To develop a proper Live Music Venue business plan with the free business plan builder template, it is important to answer each of the questions about your business to the best of your abilities.

What is your business? What are the products/services you provide? Who are your customers? What are your goals…etc?

Having a clear explanation will help you create a in-depth business plan that you can actually use to start the Live Music Venue business and to apply for needed funding to cover your startup costs.

Step 2. Projecting your revenues/income

The Live Music Venue industry can have great results. Planning and projecting the financial figures to approximate what you will make each year is crucial to building a strong business plan.

What do you think your business will make from each of its products/services? Simply list your products/services, enter the appropriate financial figures (costs and expenses).

If you don’t have the figures, in many cases it is recommended to do a a bit more research on other Live Music Venue businesses locally and within your own region to get an idea of potential revenue. You can do your best to estimate the figures and growth potential.

If you need assistance in projecting, you can always contact UK Startups funding experts for the help.

Step 3. Your business market

As a Live Music Venue business, having a clear explanation of the market and industry that you are in will help you plan for the figure and will ensure you can take the business to the next level.

Explain your location of business, share specifics about your customers, showcase your competition and explain the advantages you have over your competition.

Step 4. The future plan

Starting your own Live Music Venue business and getting it off the ground is important to you.

No matter if you’re planning on applying for government funding for your Live Music Venue business or not, it is important to plan out the future and provide an explanation of how you will grow the business. This means explaining your marketing plan, your sales strategy and clearly outlining a growth plan for the next few years.

Be sure to break this down step by step to show how you intend on making sure your Live Music Venue business can grow each year.

Keep in mind that often business plans are focused on key people. Be sure to discuss yourself, your role and any other key figures in the business as well.

Step 5. The financials

In the end, it all comes down to the financials. If you are seeking funding, or not – the business plan you develop needs to have clearly defined financials or projections. The business plan builder tool makes it easy to develop your financial charts by simply entering your expected revenues per month and year. If you don’t have the figures as it’s a new business be sure to project the figures based on your expectations. If you need help with this, ask the UK Startups experts .

A clear breakdown of your funding needs is also recommended in case you are seeking funding and this free business plan template will help you with exactly that. When developing your Live Music Venue business plan using this free template, the above 5 steps are recommended in order to succeed. While there are other key points that will assist you in starting your business, finding funding...etc, the free template will help put you on the right path

Be sure to request a professional to review your business plan , to answer any questions you may have and to help you with the funding search once you’ve done the initial free template. You can request this directly via UKStartups.org and through the Small Business Startup Platform as a member.

If starting a Live Music Venue business is just one of your ideas, perhaps considering other options, here are some popular small business’s others have chosen to startup

  • Hardware Store
  • Montessori School
  • Floor Refinishing Service
  • Apostolic Church

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Event Venue Business Plan

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If you are planning to start a new event venue business, the first thing you will need is a business plan. Use our sample event venue business plan created using Upmetrics business plan software to start writing your business plan in no time.

Before you start writing your business plan for your new event venue business, spend as much time as you can reading through some examples of  services-related business plans .

Reading sample business plans will give you a good idea of what you’re aiming for, and also it will show you the different sections that different entrepreneurs include and the language they use to write about themselves and their business plans.

We have created this sample event venue business plan for you to get a good idea about how perfect an event venue business plan should look and what details you will need to include in your stunning business plan.

Event Venue Business Plan Outline

This is the standard event venue business plan outline which will cover all important sections that you should include in your business plan.

  • Mission Statement
  • Vision Statement
  • Products Served
  • Customer Focus
  • Success Factors
  • 3 Year profit forecast
  • Business Structure
  • Startup cost
  • Products and Services
  • Industry Analysis
  • Market Trends
  • Target Market
  • SWOT Analysis
  • Phone Prospecting
  • Public Relations
  • Ongoing Customer Communications
  • Pre-Opening Events
  • Pricing Strategy
  • Important Assumptions
  • Brake-even Analysis
  • Profit Yearly
  • Gross Margin Yearly
  • Projected Cash Flow
  • Projected Balance Sheet
  • Business Ratios

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After  getting started with upmetrics , you can copy this sample business plan into your business plan and modify the required information and download your event venue business plan pdf  and doc file . It’s the fastest and easiest way to start writing your business plan.

Download an event venue business plan

Need help writing your business plan from scratch? Here you go;  download our free event venue business plan pdf  to start.

It’s a modern business plan template specifically designed for your event venue business. Use the example business plan as a guide for writing your own.

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Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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How to Write a Business Plan for a Live Music Restaurant

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How to Be Successful in Opening a Barbeque Restaurant

How to start a deli grocery, how to make a business plan for a pool hall.

  • How to Write a Business Plan for Indoor Party Centers
  • How to Open a Philly Cheesesteak Restaurant

The restaurant industry provides opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors to thrive as consumers look for new entertainment and food options. As of 2013, an estimated 1.3 million jobs are expected to be created by restaurant owners to handle this growth, according to the National Restaurant Association. How you market and position your eatery can place you squarely on the radar of those consumers looking to spend money. Your business plan is the basis on which you build your legacy of good food and live entertainment.

Obtain a copy of the zoning laws from your local planning board. Ask about the noise restrictions in the city, too. Many neighborhoods have rules that will affect the hours you can provide live entertainment and the decibel levels you can reach at your restaurant during the week. The zoning laws in your area will determine the kind of music you offer and the hours of operation.

Choose a legal entity to govern your restaurant. Most eateries organize as a limited liability corporation to protect the owners' interests. Once you have the legal paperwork in order, you can write a business plan based on those guidelines.

Spell out your vision for your restaurant in the opening statement of your business plan. Use demographic studies to expand on the viability of live entertainment as a draw and show how successful your restaurant can become. You can get such information from city hall or your local chamber of commerce. For example, 20-somethings tend to go out to eat and drink alcohol more often than other ages, according to the Food Service Warehouse, a restaurant equipment provider. Therefore, you might want to offer music that caters to them.

Show on paper how you plan to spend your loan, the rate of return on investment you expect and the timeline of your expected profit margins. Include information about the kind of music you will offer that agrees you're your demographic studies.

Attach copies of your financial history and that of your partners. Include copies of the research you've done, highlighting the dearth of live entertainment in the area where you plan to open your restaurant and the demand for the kind of food you plan to serve.

Include copies of the lease agreement, projected costs for equipment and upgrades you plan to make in the building, as well as the cost of creating a sound system and stage to highlight your entertainment. Show how you plan to market your eatery and give a proposed target opening date that includes the name of the opening act to wow investors.

  • Small Business Administration: Basic Zoning Laws
  • Don't get caught with unexpected bills or payment disputes from the bands you hire. Include a prepared contract in your business plan that can be signed by every entertainer before playing at your restaurant. This should cover how much you agree to pay for their service and what other perks such as food and drinks are included for the performers.

Linda Ray is an award-winning journalist with more than 20 years reporting experience. She's covered business for newspapers and magazines, including the "Greenville News," "Success Magazine" and "American City Business Journals." Ray holds a journalism degree and teaches writing, career development and an FDIC course called "Money Smart."

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Insanely Beautiful and Unforgettable Concert Venues in Moscow

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The capital of Russia is definitely one of the world’s biggest cultural centres. Modern Moscow is literally full of different venues dedicated to the art of music. Here you may find all kinds of entertainment, from modern techno and electronica concerts to classical orchestra, opera, ballet, symphony, modern dance and traditional choir events. A trip to Moscow isn’t complete without a show, here are the best places to see one.

1. the tchaikovsky concert hall.

Concert Hall

live music venue business plan example

2. The Tchaikovsky Conservatory of Moscow

3. barvikha luxury village concert hall.

Building, Concert Hall

4. The Crocus City Hall

5. izvestiya hall - moscow.

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MoSCoW Prioritization

What is moscow prioritization.

MoSCoW prioritization, also known as the MoSCoW method or MoSCoW analysis, is a popular prioritization technique for managing requirements. 

  The acronym MoSCoW represents four categories of initiatives: must-have, should-have, could-have, and won’t-have, or will not have right now. Some companies also use the “W” in MoSCoW to mean “wish.”

What is the History of the MoSCoW Method?

Software development expert Dai Clegg created the MoSCoW method while working at Oracle. He designed the framework to help his team prioritize tasks during development work on product releases.

You can find a detailed account of using MoSCoW prioritization in the Dynamic System Development Method (DSDM) handbook . But because MoSCoW can prioritize tasks within any time-boxed project, teams have adapted the method for a broad range of uses.

How Does MoSCoW Prioritization Work?

Before running a MoSCoW analysis, a few things need to happen. First, key stakeholders and the product team need to get aligned on objectives and prioritization factors. Then, all participants must agree on which initiatives to prioritize.

At this point, your team should also discuss how they will settle any disagreements in prioritization. If you can establish how to resolve disputes before they come up, you can help prevent those disagreements from holding up progress.

Finally, you’ll also want to reach a consensus on what percentage of resources you’d like to allocate to each category.

With the groundwork complete, you may begin determining which category is most appropriate for each initiative. But, first, let’s further break down each category in the MoSCoW method.

Start prioritizing your roadmap

Moscow prioritization categories.

Moscow

1. Must-have initiatives

As the name suggests, this category consists of initiatives that are “musts” for your team. They represent non-negotiable needs for the project, product, or release in question. For example, if you’re releasing a healthcare application, a must-have initiative may be security functionalities that help maintain compliance.

The “must-have” category requires the team to complete a mandatory task. If you’re unsure about whether something belongs in this category, ask yourself the following.

moscow-initiatives

If the product won’t work without an initiative, or the release becomes useless without it, the initiative is most likely a “must-have.”

2. Should-have initiatives

Should-have initiatives are just a step below must-haves. They are essential to the product, project, or release, but they are not vital. If left out, the product or project still functions. However, the initiatives may add significant value.

“Should-have” initiatives are different from “must-have” initiatives in that they can get scheduled for a future release without impacting the current one. For example, performance improvements, minor bug fixes, or new functionality may be “should-have” initiatives. Without them, the product still works.

3. Could-have initiatives

Another way of describing “could-have” initiatives is nice-to-haves. “Could-have” initiatives are not necessary to the core function of the product. However, compared with “should-have” initiatives, they have a much smaller impact on the outcome if left out.

So, initiatives placed in the “could-have” category are often the first to be deprioritized if a project in the “should-have” or “must-have” category ends up larger than expected.

4. Will not have (this time)

One benefit of the MoSCoW method is that it places several initiatives in the “will-not-have” category. The category can manage expectations about what the team will not include in a specific release (or another timeframe you’re prioritizing).

Placing initiatives in the “will-not-have” category is one way to help prevent scope creep . If initiatives are in this category, the team knows they are not a priority for this specific time frame. 

Some initiatives in the “will-not-have” group will be prioritized in the future, while others are not likely to happen. Some teams decide to differentiate between those by creating a subcategory within this group.

How Can Development Teams Use MoSCoW?

  Although Dai Clegg developed the approach to help prioritize tasks around his team’s limited time, the MoSCoW method also works when a development team faces limitations other than time. For example: 

Prioritize based on budgetary constraints.

What if a development team’s limiting factor is not a deadline but a tight budget imposed by the company? Working with the product managers, the team can use MoSCoW first to decide on the initiatives that represent must-haves and the should-haves. Then, using the development department’s budget as the guide, the team can figure out which items they can complete. 

Prioritize based on the team’s skillsets.

A cross-functional product team might also find itself constrained by the experience and expertise of its developers. If the product roadmap calls for functionality the team does not have the skills to build, this limiting factor will play into scoring those items in their MoSCoW analysis.

Prioritize based on competing needs at the company.

Cross-functional teams can also find themselves constrained by other company priorities. The team wants to make progress on a new product release, but the executive staff has created tight deadlines for further releases in the same timeframe. In this case, the team can use MoSCoW to determine which aspects of their desired release represent must-haves and temporarily backlog everything else.

What Are the Drawbacks of MoSCoW Prioritization?

  Although many product and development teams have prioritized MoSCoW, the approach has potential pitfalls. Here are a few examples.

1. An inconsistent scoring process can lead to tasks placed in the wrong categories.

  One common criticism against MoSCoW is that it does not include an objective methodology for ranking initiatives against each other. Your team will need to bring this methodology to your analysis. The MoSCoW approach works only to ensure that your team applies a consistent scoring system for all initiatives.

Pro tip: One proven method is weighted scoring, where your team measures each initiative on your backlog against a standard set of cost and benefit criteria. You can use the weighted scoring approach in ProductPlan’s roadmap app .

2. Not including all relevant stakeholders can lead to items placed in the wrong categories.

To know which of your team’s initiatives represent must-haves for your product and which are merely should-haves, you will need as much context as possible.

For example, you might need someone from your sales team to let you know how important (or unimportant) prospective buyers view a proposed new feature.

One pitfall of the MoSCoW method is that you could make poor decisions about where to slot each initiative unless your team receives input from all relevant stakeholders. 

3. Team bias for (or against) initiatives can undermine MoSCoW’s effectiveness.

Because MoSCoW does not include an objective scoring method, your team members can fall victim to their own opinions about certain initiatives. 

One risk of using MoSCoW prioritization is that a team can mistakenly think MoSCoW itself represents an objective way of measuring the items on their list. They discuss an initiative, agree that it is a “should have,” and move on to the next.

But your team will also need an objective and consistent framework for ranking all initiatives. That is the only way to minimize your team’s biases in favor of items or against them.

When Do You Use the MoSCoW Method for Prioritization?

MoSCoW prioritization is effective for teams that want to include representatives from the whole organization in their process. You can capture a broader perspective by involving participants from various functional departments.

Another reason you may want to use MoSCoW prioritization is it allows your team to determine how much effort goes into each category. Therefore, you can ensure you’re delivering a good variety of initiatives in each release.

What Are Best Practices for Using MoSCoW Prioritization?

If you’re considering giving MoSCoW prioritization a try, here are a few steps to keep in mind. Incorporating these into your process will help your team gain more value from the MoSCoW method.

1. Choose an objective ranking or scoring system.

Remember, MoSCoW helps your team group items into the appropriate buckets—from must-have items down to your longer-term wish list. But MoSCoW itself doesn’t help you determine which item belongs in which category.

You will need a separate ranking methodology. You can choose from many, such as:

  • Weighted scoring
  • Value vs. complexity
  • Buy-a-feature
  • Opportunity scoring

For help finding the best scoring methodology for your team, check out ProductPlan’s article: 7 strategies to choose the best features for your product .

2. Seek input from all key stakeholders.

To make sure you’re placing each initiative into the right bucket—must-have, should-have, could-have, or won’t-have—your team needs context. 

At the beginning of your MoSCoW method, your team should consider which stakeholders can provide valuable context and insights. Sales? Customer success? The executive staff? Product managers in another area of your business? Include them in your initiative scoring process if you think they can help you see opportunities or threats your team might miss. 

3. Share your MoSCoW process across your organization.

MoSCoW gives your team a tangible way to show your organization prioritizing initiatives for your products or projects. 

The method can help you build company-wide consensus for your work, or at least help you show stakeholders why you made the decisions you did.

Communicating your team’s prioritization strategy also helps you set expectations across the business. When they see your methodology for choosing one initiative over another, stakeholders in other departments will understand that your team has thought through and weighed all decisions you’ve made. 

If any stakeholders have an issue with one of your decisions, they will understand that they can’t simply complain—they’ll need to present you with evidence to alter your course of action.  

Related Terms

2×2 prioritization matrix / Eisenhower matrix / DACI decision-making framework / ICE scoring model / RICE scoring model

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Resources On Live Music Venue

  • Financial Model
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  • One-Page Business Plan
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  • Description

Executive Summary

Products & services, market analysis, marketing plan.

  • Management Plan
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Despite the abundance of live music venues in the US, there is a significant gap in the market for a premium entertainment experience that caters to diverse music preferences while offering top-notch bar services. The Live Music Venue startup, "Harmony Hall," seeks to fill this void by providing customers with an unmatched entertainment experience that incorporates premium music genres and cutting-edge bar services. This startup aims to satisfy the needs of music enthusiasts who seek a unique, memorable experience that goes beyond a traditional concert venue. With an identifiable need in the market, Harmony Hall is poised to emerge as a leading name in the live music scene and create a loyal and diverse customer base that values high-quality entertainment value.

Harmony Hall is the solution for live music enthusiasts who seek a premium concert experience. Our Live Music Venue will provide a diverse range of musical genres to cater to the music preferences of our customer base. Our top-notch bar services featuring the best alcoholic beverages and specialty cocktails will enhance the overall experience. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, a cultural hub and home to several big music festivals throughout the year, our venue will be the premier destination for live music enthusiasts across the country.

With a vibrant ambiance, state-of-the-art equipment, and talented musicians and staff, Harmony Hall will create unforgettable experiences for all our customers. Whether it's a solo artist or a band, our stage will be the platform for the best acts in the industry. Our ultimate goal is to establish a strong brand identity for our venue and emerge as a leading name in the live music space.

Target Market

Competition.

Harmony Hall will be entering a highly competitive market, with several established venues already catering to music enthusiasts across the country. The live music scene is crowded with fierce competition from existing name brands such as House of Blues, The Fillmore, and The Troubadour. These venues offer premium experiences and are known for hosting big-name artists and memorable shows.

Besides these big-name brands, there are also several smaller music venues that cater to niche genres, such as jazz, blues, and folk. While these may not have the prestige or reputation of the larger venues, they still offer curated experiences and have established loyal customer bases.

Harmony Hall needs to differentiate itself by offering a unique experience, such as a mix of genres or an emphasis on undiscovered talent, to attract customers and establish a loyal following. The venue will also need to offer premium services, such as top-notch equipment and superior bar services, to compete with established brands' standards.

Financial Summary

The financial plan of Harmony Hall is essential to ensure the success and sustainability of the business. Here are the key highlights of the financial plan:

  • The startup requires a funding of $5 million to secure an ideal location, hire talented staff and musicians, procure state-of-the-art equipment, and execute an effective marketing strategy.
  • The estimated costs for the first year of operation stand at $3.5 million, including rent, equipment, staffing, marketing, and other operational expenses.
  • Harmony Hall expects to generate revenue of $4.5 million in the first year, with an average ticket price of $50 and an estimated attendance of 90,000 customers.
  • The gross profit margin for the first year is expected to be 22%, with a net profit margin of 10%.
  • With the increase in attendance and the addition of more events and services, Harmony Hall expects to generate revenue of $12 million by the fifth year, with a net profit margin of 15%.

The financial plan of Harmony Hall is designed to ensure that the business is financially stable and can achieve its long-term goals of becoming a leading name in the live music industry, attracting a diverse and loyal customer base, and creating unforgettable experiences for its customers.

Funding Requirements

Harmony Hall requires an estimated funding of $5 million to kickstart its operations and establish itself as one of the premier live music venues in the US. The funding will be allocated towards the following:

  • Securing a prime location in Atlanta, GA
  • Hiring talented musicians and staff
  • Procuring state-of-the-art equipment
  • Executing an effective marketing and promotion strategy

This amount will be used to cover all initial expenses, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operations from day one.

Milestones and Traction

In order to track progress and measure success, we have devised a detailed roadmap table that outlines the specific milestones we plan to hit. This table consists of critical events and dates that are essential in ensuring that Harmony Hall achieves its goals and emerges as one of the premier live music venues in the US.

Some of the key milestones in the table include:

  • Securing the ideal location for the venue within six months. This will be a critical step in establishing our brand identity and attracting customers.
  • Developing and executing a comprehensive marketing and promotional strategy within eight months to increase brand awareness and attract a diverse customer base.
  • Hiring top talent, including skilled musicians and staff, within the first year to create a unique and unforgettable experience for our customers.
  • Generating a steady revenue stream and achieving profitability within the first two years of operation.
  • Expanding our customer base and establishing Harmony Hall as a leading name in the live music venue space within five years.

By hitting these key milestones, we aim to establish ourselves as a force to be reckoned with in the live music industry. Our team is deeply committed to achieving these goals and ensuring that Harmony Hall provides an unforgettable entertainment experience to all our customers.

Problem Worth Solving

The live music scene in the United States is highly fragmented, with several small and medium-sized venues competing for a limited customer base. Most venues cater to specific music genres, failing to provide a diverse range of options for music enthusiasts. Furthermore, the overall customer experience is often lacking, with inadequate bar services and outdated equipment. Customers often have to compromise on their preferences and settle for mediocre entertainment experiences.

Harmony Hall aims to solve this problem by providing a platform for live music enthusiasts to indulge in their passion without any compromises. Our venue will offer a diverse range of music genres, catering to various preferences. We will also provide top-notch bar services, including premium alcoholic beverages and specialty cocktails, to enhance the overall customer experience. Our state-of-the-art equipment will ensure that the music is of high quality, and our talented staff will ensure that every customer has an unforgettable experience.

Our Solution: Unforgettable Live Music Experiences

At Harmony Hall, we understand the need for diverse and high-quality live music experiences to cater to the preferences of our customer base. Our venue will feature a variety of music genres, performed by talented musicians, to provide a memorable entertainment experience that sets us apart from our competitors.

Through our exceptional bar services, including premium alcohol beverages and specialty cocktails, we aim to enhance the overall musical experience for our customers. We believe that our combination of fantastic music and excellent bar service will create a unique space that satisfies the entertainment needs of our diverse customer base.

Our mission is to exceed customer expectations and create a loyal and diverse customer base that values the Harmony Hall brand. We believe that our solution of offering unforgettable live music experiences appeals to those seeking world-class entertainment and a welcoming environment.

Validation of Problem and Solution

According to research conducted by Statista, the live music industry in the US generated revenues of about $9.78 billion in 2019, and it is projected to continue growing at a CAGR of 3.5% from 2020 to 2025. This indicates a growing demand for live music experiences among audiences in the US.

Furthermore, Atlanta has been identified as a cultural hub and home to several big music festivals throughout the year, creating an opportune environment for a new live music venue startup like "Harmony Hall."

To validate our solution, we conducted a survey among potential customers, which show that there is a significant interest in a live music venue with a diverse range of music genres, top-notch bar services, and a focus on creating an unforgettable experience for customers.

Additionally, we tested our idea by hosting a small-scale event, which received positive feedback from attendees and industry experts. This further provides validation for our solution and supports our belief that "Harmony Hall" has the potential to establish itself as a leading name in the live music venue space.

Product Overview

As the name suggests, "Harmony Hall" is a Live Music Venue that aims to provide an exceptional entertainment experience to music enthusiasts across the US. Our venue will offer a diverse range of music genres, including rock, pop, hip hop, jazz, and more, catering to varied music preferences of our customers. Our state-of-the-art equipment and talented musicians will ensure that our customers enjoy high-quality music performances that transport them into a world of euphoria.

In addition to our live music offerings, we will also offer top-notch bar services that include premium alcoholic beverages and specialty cocktails. Our customers will have the option to enjoy their favorite drinks and music together, enhancing the overall experience.

Our products and services are designed for music lovers who are looking for an unforgettable live music experience. We cater to people of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors leaves with a smile on their face. We believe that our entertainment services will benefit our customers by providing them with a memorable and fulfilling experience that they will cherish for a long time.

Roadmap: Products & Services

Here are the steps already taken and plans for establishing and growing Harmony Hall:

  • Step 1: Conducted market research and analysis to identify the target audience and competition.
  • Step 2: Secured funding of $5 million from investors to begin operations.
  • Step 3: Acquired a prime location in Atlanta, Georgia for the venue.
  • Step 4: Hired a team of talented musicians and staff to ensure top-notch entertainment and service.
  • Step 5: Procured state-of-the-art equipment to enhance the overall experience for the audience.
  • Step 6: Created a marketing and advertising strategy to promote Harmony Hall in various media outlets and events.

To establish and grow Harmony Hall, we plan to:

  • Step 1: Continuously monitor and analyze customer feedback to make necessary improvements and adjustments to our products and services.
  • Step 2: Establish partnerships with local and national musicians to attract a wider audience and enhance the variety of genre and talent.
  • Step 3: Develop a loyalty program to reward and incentivize repeat customers.
  • Step 4: Host exclusive events and offer VIP packages to attract high-paying customers and generate more revenue.
  • Step 5: Expand our reach by establishing additional locations in partnership with investors.

By following this roadmap, Harmony Hall aims to offer an unforgettable entertainment experience to its customers and become a leading name in the live music venue industry.

Market Segmentation

Market segmentation is the process of dividing the market into smaller groups of customers who share common needs, interests, or characteristics. Identifying these segments allows businesses to tailor their marketing efforts more effectively and offer products or services that better meet the needs of their target audience.

For our Live Music Venue business, potential groups of customers separated by specific characteristics are as follows:

Target Market Segment Strategy

Our ideal customers are music lovers ranging from 18 to 35 years old who appreciate live entertainment and prefer a lively nightlife. These customers are more likely to visit our venue for small live concerts or performances of their favorite artists. They want a place where they can relax, socialize, and enjoy unique music experiences while enjoying excellent food and beverages. Our target segment also includes local music enthusiasts who want to support the local music scene and cherish original music. These customers are looking for an intimate environment where they can connect with musicians, performers and like-minded individuals to broaden their musical knowledge. Therefore, our marketing and promotional strategies will involve targeting our ideal customers through social media platforms, email marketing, and collaborations with local hotels and tourism agencies to attract visitors to the area. We will also focus on hosting niche events that cater to the interests of our target market, such as music festivals, album launches, and cultural events.

Key Customers

Our ideal customer archetype for the live music venue will be avid music lovers, aged between 21 to 45, who are willing to pay for premium experiences. They are usually regular visitors to live shows and music festivals and have a keen eye for discovering new talent.

Our main advocates will be those who share our passion for music and appreciate the quality of performance we deliver. They are also likely to promote our business through word of mouth and social media, helping us to attract a wider audience.

We will also target corporate clients for private events and high profile shows to broaden our customer base and generate additional revenue.

Future Markets

In the live music venue industry, there are several potential competitors that we need to take into account. The following table outlines some of the key competitors in our local area:

As you can see, each competitor has its own strengths and weaknesses that we need to consider as we develop our live music venue business plan. We will need to differentiate ourselves by offering unique experiences and high-quality entertainment in order to stand out in a crowded market.

Marketing and Sales Plan

The marketing and advertising strategy for our live music venue will be focused on promoting the venue as a premier entertainment destination for live music fans. Our target audience will include music enthusiasts of all ages who are interested in live music and want to experience the energy and excitement of a live concert.

We will use a variety of advertising channels to reach our target audience, including print ads in local newspapers and magazines, online ads on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, as well as email marketing campaigns targeted at our existing customer base. We will also be utilizing local radio and TV networks to reach potential customers and build our brand awareness.

The cost for our marketing and advertising plan will be budgeted to approximately 10% of our total revenue for the first year, and will be revised based on the success of each campaign. The table below outlines our marketing goals, strategies and estimated costs for the first year of operation.

By dedicating resources to marketing and advertising, we aim to increase our brand visibility, drive ticket sales and establish a loyal customer base to ensure the sustainability of our live music venue in the long term.

Based on market analysis and projected customer demand, we anticipate an average of 500 sales per night with a 70% occupancy rate in the first year of operation. This estimate takes into account the capacity of our venue, pricing strategy, and the quality of our service and entertainment offerings.

The admission fee for the Live Music Venue will be $20-35, depending on the day of the week and the featured artist. We also plan to offer special package deals for group bookings and corporate events.

To drive sales, we will adopt a multi-channel marketing approach that includes social media, email marketing, search engine optimization, and partnerships with influencers and music bloggers. We will also collaborate with local businesses and organizations to promote our venue and establish partnerships to cross-promote our services.

In addition, we will leverage data analytics to track sales performance and customer feedback, enabling us to optimize our operations and continually improve customer satisfaction levels. By executing a robust sales plan, we are confident in achieving our revenue projections and establishing Harmony Hall as a go-to destination for live music enthusiasts in the US.

Location and Facilities

Equipment and tools.

Running a successful live music venue requires a range of equipment and tools to ensure that guests have an enjoyable experience while maintaining a safe environment. Here is an outline of the essential equipment and estimated cost associated with purchasing or renting them:

Overall, the cost of equipment and tools can range from $48,500 to $79,000. It may be possible to reduce costs by renting certain equipment, but purchasing equipment may be a better investment in the long run. Additionally, it is important to consider ongoing maintenance costs and replacement expenses when creating a budget for equipment and tools.

Management and Organization

Organizational structure, management team.

As a new Live Music Venue, we understand the importance of having a strong and experienced management team. We have compiled a table of potential candidates that we anticipate taking on high-level management roles within our company. Our goal is to build a team that has a wealth of experience in the music industry and can help us achieve our long-term goals for our business.

We believe that with the help of these talented individuals, we can build a successful Live Music Venue that will be a popular destination for music lovers and performers alike.

Management Team Gaps

At this stage, we do not have suitable candidates to fill certain positions and areas of expertise required for the smooth running of our Live Music Venue Business. We intend to undertake a rigorous recruitment process to find suitable candidates who meet our requirements.

Specifically, we are currently seeking experienced individuals to fill the following positions:

  • Marketing and promotions manager
  • Operations manager

We are committed to finding the right individuals who will bring unique skills and experience to our team.

Personnel Plan

In order to run our Live Music Venue business effectively, we anticipate requiring a number of positions to be filled. Here is a table outlining the potential positions:

These positions will play an integral role in the success of our Live Music Venue and we plan to carefully select and train each team member to ensure high-quality service and customer satisfaction.

Company History and Ownership

We have developed a detailed roadmap in a table format of specific goals and objectives, which will help us manage and steer our business effectively:

Key Metrics

Tracking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) is an important way to gauge the overall performance and health of your Live Music Venue business. Here are a few KPIs that can help you evaluate your success in this industry:

  • Total ticket sales
  • Revenue per gig
  • Percentage of sold-out shows
  • Cancellation rate
  • Cover charges and ticket prices
  • Average spend per customer

Monitoring these metrics will help you stay on top of trends and identify areas for improvement, ultimately leading to greater success for your Live Music Venue business.

Financial Plan and Metrics

Sales forecast.

The financial plan for our Live Music Venue business includes two separate tables – one for startup costs and another for operational expenses. The startup costs include all expected or incurred expenses necessary to get the business up and running, while operational expenses are ongoing costs required to keep the business functioning.

Startup Costs

Operational expenses.

These tables provide a clear picture of the expected costs involved in starting and running a Live Music Venue business. Keeping track of expenses and staying within budget is vital for the success of any business, and we plan to monitor our finances closely to ensure we stay on track and reach our financial goals.

Projected Profit and Loss

Harmony Hall is expected to generate significant revenue through its live music and bar services. Below is a three-year projected Profit and Loss (P&L) statement for the Live Music Venue:

The cost of goods sold (COGS) includes expenses such as musician fees, rental of equipment, and bar inventory costs. The gross margin and gross margin percentage are calculated based on the difference between revenue and COGS.

The net Income for Harmony Hall is projected to be positive, with a profit of $1,350,000 in the first year, $1,950,000 in the second year, and $2,550,000 in the third year. The profit percentage for Harmony Hall is expected to be 54% in the first year, 56% in the second year, and 57% in the third year.

Projected Cash Flow

Below is a projected cash flow statement for Harmony Hall for the next three years:

Inflow includes ticket sales, bar and beverage sales, and any additional event-related revenue. Outflow includes operational expenses such as rent, utilities, employee salaries, equipment maintenance, and marketing expenses. Net cash flow is calculated by subtracting outflow from inflow. Cumulative net cash flow represents the accumulation of net cash flow over time.

Projected Balance Sheet

Below is a projected balance sheet for the Live Music Venue business for the next three years. The balance sheet provides an overview of the expected balances for business assets, liabilities, and equity.

Based on the projected balance sheet, the Live Music Venue business is on track to increase its assets and equity over the next three years. However, it is important to closely monitor liabilities to ensure financial stability and continued growth.

Use of Funds

The estimated funding of $5 million for Harmony Hall will be used for securing the ideal location in Atlanta, hiring talented musicians and staff, procuring state-of-the-art equipment, and executing an effective marketing and promotion strategy. With this funding, Harmony Hall will be able to establish a strong brand identity and offer an unforgettable live music experience to its customers. This breakdown of the use of funds will be shared with investors and lenders to provide transparency and assurance of the startup's financial planning and management.

Exit Strategy:

Our exit strategy for the Live Music Venue business will be to either sell the business to a larger corporation, transfer ownership to a family member or key employee, or take the company public through an initial public offering (IPO). We will regularly review our financial metrics and adjust our exit strategy accordingly. Our goal is to maximize the value of the business for all stakeholders.

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72 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Moscow

fun things to do in Moscow

Sure, Moscow is the Russian political capital and the nation’s most populous city, but describing it as such couldn’t be any further from the truth. More accurately, Moscow is a city of contrasts.

It exudes history — its Kremlin dates back centuries, nodding to royalty and leadership old and now, while the famed Red Square, the poster child of the city, blends striking color with ancient tradition and religion.

On the other hand, it’s a city of modern pop culture and towering skyscrapers; a place where you’ll come across new-age museums, arts centers, manmade parks, and an efficient transportation system that’s one of the most beautiful in Europe.

It’s a city of longstanding culture — the Bolshoi Theater is an international symbol for excellence in classical dance, while Russia’s National Ballet Company remains renowned worldwide — as well as upbeat nightlife, with some of the world’s most celebrated rooftop bars and nightclubs.

While it’s a city filled with opposites, there remains no shortage of things to do in Moscow for all types of travelers — from those who want cultural immersion to those looking for an epic night out, you’ll be spoiled for choice. And if you’re not sure where to start, here’s a list of suggestions!

The Moscow Kremlin

If there’s any particular district begging to be the first place you visit on your trip, it’s the Kremlin.

Built in the 16th century by Ivan the Terrible, the UNESCO-listed area has since become the heart of Russia’s capital city, where you’ll find several churches, palaces, and other noteworthy buildings.

We’ll dive into each of its main attractions in a second, but regardless of what you visit, try to make it to the Kremlin in time for sunset — because seeing its golden domes glinting in the late-afternoon light makes for one spectacular tourist photo!

Click here to learn about Kremlin tickets prices .

1 – Admire the abundance of Kremlin towers | the Kremlin

Kremlin towers, Moscow

As your eyes dart down the towering red-brick Kremlin wall, the first thing you’ll notice is its large towers of all different styles and sizes.

With a whopping 20 separate minarets towering above the historic area, each with its own name, colors, features and history, a guided tour to learn each of their fascinating stories is a must.

To give you a little taste, the Konstantin-Yeleninskaya Tower once housed a torture chamber. Saviour’s Tower at the main entrance boasts a famous chiming clock, the Secret Tower houses a secret escape tunnel, and the Trinity Tower is the tallest of them all.

  • Moscow Kremlin tours

2 – Visit the enormous Grand Kremlin Palace | the Kremlin

Grand Kremlin Palace, Moscow

A remarkable attraction in terms of both beauty and history, the Grand Kremlin Palace is an ornate rococo-style building that was commissioned during the reign of Nicholas I, and today acts as the official residence of none other than the Russian president, Vladimir Putin.

Perched atop Borovitsky Hill, its 125-meter-long facade is unmissable, making for impressive photos.

Take note: guided tours are few and far between, so you’ll have to book a few weeks in advance if you want to check out the decorated inner sanctum.

Directions in Google Maps

3 – People-watch in Cathedral Square | the Kremlin

Cathedral Square, Moscow

One of the most popular areas in all of Moscow (sometimes called Sobornaya Square), with multiple massive churches at its heart, Cathedral Square is flanked by several historic buildings and is never shy of a tourist crowd.

The three main churches — each spectacular works of architecture in their own right — are the Cathedral of the Assumption (the oldest and the biggest of all Kremlin churches), the 16th-century Cathedral of the Archangel Michael (known for its beautiful Corinthian gables and turrets), and the golden-domed Cathedral of the Annunciation (which connects to the Grand Kremlin Palace’s main building).

Throw in the 60-meter-high Ivan the Great Bell Tower, the lesser-known Church of the Twelve Apostles , the Church of the Deposition of the Virgin’s Robe (underrated yet famous for its marvelous stained-glass windows), and the medieval residence-turned-museum that is The Patriarch’s Palace, and you can see why this square is regularly number one on any visitor’s list of things to do in Moscow.

4 – See a show at the State Kremlin Palace | the Kremlin

State Kremlin Palace, Moscow

Just like the Grand Kremlin Palace , this theater and prestigious concert hall — with its grandiose facade and multiple sculptures — is another ornate building that’s worth admiring.

A popular place to hold conferences, the State Kremlin Palace was originally built as part of a larger complex for Communist Party meetings, but today hosts some of the biggest events in Moscow — we’re talkin’ sold-old ballet performances, world-famous concerts, opera shows, and festivals.

Check the website to see what’s on the calendar for your visit!

5 – See centuries worth of national treasures at the Armoury Chamber | the Kremlin

Armoury Chamber, Moscow

For anyone with an interest in historical weaponry and armor, this museum — which dates back to the early 1500s when it was created as the royal armory — is a must-see.

The Armoury Chamber (as well as the Diamond Fund Exhibition) is home to some of the most valuable objects that were originally owned by Russian monarchs — from jeweled heirlooms and intricate boxes to ornately decorated pistols and swords — many of which are centuries old.

Within the armoury chamber, you’ll also find the Russian historical regalia, a collection of artifacts that belonged to Russian tsars and emperors between the 13th and 20th centuries, highlighted by the Ivory Throne and the Monomakh’s Cap.

  • Armoury Chamber tours

6 – Step inside the Palace of the Facets | the Kremlin

Palace of the Facets, Moscow

The Palace of the Facets is one of the most underrated buildings in all of Moscow, largely because it’s not as widely promoted or photographed even though its exterior adorns some postcards.

From the outside, it blends in with the crowd. But step inside and you’ll discover a world of beauty and wonder — its frescoes, golden columns and enormous rooms are a sight to behold

The Palace of the Facets is not only a piece of art (literally, with painted walls), dating back over 500 years, but also acted as the dining hall for the Tsars.

7 – Feel small next to the Tsar Bell | the Kremlin

Tsar Bell, Moscow

Making Philadelphia’s famous Liberty Bell look diminutive in size, this monument , which never actually functioned as a bell due to its immense size (at 205 tons and standing 20.1 feet high!), has found fame in recent years for being the heaviest attraction inside The Kremlin.

With the bronze landmark’s claim to fame of being the biggest bell in the world, it presents as a great, quick photo op when roaming through the Kremlin.

8 – Check out the Senate Palace | the Kremlin

Senate Palace, Moscow

Another architectural masterpiece that’s tucked away within the Kremlin, this palace is famous for being one of Moscow’s most beautiful buildings — its yellow façade curves around to face inward and truly engulf anyone who stands near it.

Built back in the late 1700s, today it houses the Russian presidential administration and, unfortunately for us, is off limits to the general public.

Still, admiring it from outside, with the nearby Tsar Cannon, is certainly good enough.

9 – Grab a photo in front of the Tsar Cannon | the Kremlin

Tsar Cannon, Moscow

One of Moscow’s most iconic symbols, Tsar Cannon (or Royal Cannon) is a cannon that was manufactured in 1586 and resides — yep, you guessed it — within The Kremlin.

Following the theme of the enormous Tsar Bell, it weighs a whopping 39 tons — making it one of the world’s largest cannons even though it has never been shot.

And while its size may be impressive on its own, what makes this cannon so special is that it’s adorned with intricate carvings, ornaments, inscriptions, and a figure of a horse-riding Tsar Feodor the Bellringer.

  • walking tours in Moscow

10 – Join a tour of the Terem Palace | the Kremlin

Terem Palace, Moscow

A stunning, fairytale-like palace that’s steeped in history and detail, the five-story Terem Palace is one of the most underrated attractions within The Kremlin. However, as part of the official residence of the Russian President, much of it is off-limits to snap-happy tourists.

That said, there’s still plenty to be seen in the accessible areas by joining a group tour: a beautiful white-stone carved staircase; curved, decorated, and painted ceilings; and an enchanting low-vaulted Antechamber with lancet windows.

The Red Square

As we move away from the Kremlin, our next stop is the most photographed, picturesque public area in the country.

Flanked by gorgeous, colorful towers and buildings, the Red Square is the most famous square in all of Russia — and one that’s steeped in history, patriotism, and communist symbolism.

Home to some of Moscow’s greatest landmarks including St Basil’s Cathedral (featuring its iconic onion domes), Lenin Mausoleum, GUM department store (an architectural masterpiece that is the most famous shopping mall in Russia), The State History Museum, and more, it’s not just a sight to see in Moscow but also one that has been seen by hundreds of millions from around the world.

11 – Make your way inside St. Basil’s Cathedral | Red Square

St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow

Built back in the early 1500s, this quirky-looking, 65-meter-tall Orthodox church is so unique and detailed that it’s earned its place as one of 16 UNESCO cultural sites in Russia — and, thanks to many Hollywood productions like Bond: Skyfall (2012), has only continued to increase in fame.

Its exterior boasts multi-colored domes crowned with golden onion top spires. Meanwhile, inside, you’ll find nine small, separate chapels, and plenty of decorated walls and windows — all best viewed as part of a walking tour of Red Square.

  • Red Square tours in Moscow

12 – Visit the State Historical Museum | Red Square

State Historical Museum, Moscow

One of seven museums that can be found around the expansive Red Square, the State Historical Museum is one of Moscow’s most revered.

Housed in a neoclassical building (the same as GUM), it features more than 4 million items relating to Russian history — making it so vast and incredible that you’ll need at least two hours inside to see just a fraction.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Marshal Georgy Zhukov Monument, a towering horse-riding statue of arguably the most famous and heroic Soviet military commander of WWII, which can be found in front of the museum.

13 – Shop till you drop at GUM | Red Square

GUM department store, Moscow

The official state department store of Russia, having opened in 1893 and become one of Moscow’s most iconic attractions for shopaholics over the years, is known for its gorgeous architecture that looks more like a palace than anything else.

Entering through its massive golden doors, you’ll be surprised to find an extensive shopping center with more than 100 luxury and world-renowned brands of clothing and accessories for men, women, and youngsters.

Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, stop into the Gastronom №1 for a bite to eat or take a stroll through its corridors to appreciate the building’s history and beauty.

14 – Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum | Red Square

Lenin's Mausoleum, Moscow

Another iconic Red Square attraction is Lenin’s Mausoleum, a small yet foreboding building that houses the embalmed corpse of Communist leader Vladimir Lenin (who led Russia through the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917).

Opened in 1930 after his death and standing at more than 12 meters tall, it presents as both a unique and macabre site — and, considering the life-like nature of the body, certainly isn’t for the faint of heart.

Note: Entrance is free of charge, but expect to be searched by security before being allowed in.

15 – Ride the Moscow Metro, enjoying the beautiful stations along the way

Moscow Metro, Russia

As we leave the Red Square, the next cab off the rank is Moscow’s unbelievable artistic Metro network (rivaled only in beauty by that of Stockholm). Constructed between the 1930s and 1950s, its stations were built by hand with a wide range of artistic themes — from socialist realist to Slavic pagan.

Tips: The best way to experience them is as part of a Moscow Metro tour, which can be booked online. However, if you prefer exploring solo, then make sure to visit the Mayakovskaya Metro Station which is known for its seemingly endless archways.

You may also check out Dostoyevskaya, named after a famous writer with murals depicting his stories. The Ploshchad Revolutsii Metro Station is another option where a handful of Socialist statues provide a wonderful contrast to the red marble arches.

  • metro tours in Moscow

16 – Spend the afternoon exploring the State Tretyakov Gallery

State Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow

Boasting the reputation of being one of the world’s leading art museums, the State Tretyakov Gallery is home to a stunning collection that features well over 100,000 works from Russia and around the globe.

Featuring everything from ancient Russian icons to Soviet-era artifacts and contemporary pieces, the museum also houses a charming green garden perfect for recharging.

Visitors are advised to allocate at least three hours inside to properly appreciate everything on show — or consider booking a private VIP tour to skip the lines and focus on the best sections.

  • Tretyakov Gallery tickets

Click here to find out the best Moscow tours .

17 – Get out of town to the Tsaritsyno Museum & Nature Reserve

Tsaritsyno Museum & Nature Reserve, Moscow

Located a short drive from the hustle and bustle of the Red Square, this incredible attraction is both a palatial museum and cultural center, with an enchanting open-air garden to boot — spread across 405 hectares altogether.

Boasting beautiful 18th-century baroque architecture, it was originally built as a country retreat for Catherine the Great. However, it has since been transformed into an outdoor museum with several museums inside — including exhibits dedicated to Russian history and culture.

18 – Tick off the main haunts with a hop-on hop-off bus ride

bus tours in Moscow

Short on time or just can’t be bothered walking around anymore? Then make sure to check out the double-decker Hop-on-Hop-off Bus, a convenient and cheap way of seeing all the main attractions in one go.

With unlimited-ride tickets lasting between 24 and 72 hours, there’s plenty of flexibility to soak in must-see areas like Red Square, the Kremlin, Arbatskaya Square, Theatre Square, and the Red October neighborhood — and with a free audio tour (in English) throughout the ride, you’re sure to learn a thing or two as well.

Busses usually run every 15 minutes, with the full city loop taking roughly an hour — of course, you can disembark and reboard to your heart’s content.

  • bus tours in Moscow

19 – Learn about military history on Poklonnaya Hill

Poklonnaya Hill, Moscow

For an up-close and personal experience with the past, make sure to check out Poklonnaya Hill — a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 20 minutes out from the city center that’s home to several relics from Russia’s pre-revolutionary era.

It has everything from Great Patriotic War memorials dedicated to fallen soldiers of the Russian military forces, to the Eternal Flame and the Museum of Great Patriotic War. This is an unmissable opportunity for history buffs.

Hot tip: While you’re in the area, be sure to stop into the Victory Museum (the nation’s biggest military history museum) and check out the gold-tipped Church of St. George the Victorious .

20 – Get artsy at the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts

Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, Moscow

Home to one of the finest and most significant art collections in Russia, the highly-regarded Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts showcases everything from medieval icons and paintings. With over 500,000 pieces of works by renowned artists like Rembrandt, Renoir, Picasso, Matisse, Karl Bryullov and Rubens, the museum is undeniably one of the best things to do in Moscow for art lovers.

The museum also houses impressive exhibits dedicated to ancient Greece, archaeological collections, decorative arts and a 200,000-item Numismatic library.

21 – Take a charming stroll down Arbat Street

Arbat Street, Moscow

Boasting everything from galleries and craft stores to souvenir shops, cafes, and some of Russia’s finest restaurants and hotels — as well as top-notch street performers (like jugglers and caricaturists) — Arbat Street is one of Moscow’s most famous pedestrian hubs for good reason.

The entire walkway, flanked by colorful buildings, stretches about a kilometer through the historic district, making it the perfect start to any day of inner-city exploring.

22 – Lounge around at the Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure, Moscow

One of Moscow’s biggest and most beloved green spaces, Gorky Central Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to soak in some fresh air.

The park boasts 45 hectares of picturesque grassland, forests, Golitsinsky Ponds (home to squirrels and ducks), walking trails, fountains and the Neskuchny Garden. This place is also home to the wooden Olivkovy beach, a hot spot for photographers looking to appreciate the Moskva river.

Plenty of cafes line the well-manicured park, likewise public art projects and picnic spots and an open-air cinema in the summertime!

While a relaxing day in the gardens is never a bad idea, if you’re looking for something a little more interactive, there’s the 18-meter-tall Observation Platform and a handful of museums on site. The Gorky Park Museum , Muzeon Park of Arts , Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and New Tretyakov Gallery are all noteworthy stops within walking distance.

23 – Stare at the ceiling of the Christ the Savior Cathedral

Christ the Savior Cathedral, Moscow

On an easy stroll from the southwest side of the Kremlin, you’ll find a majestic memorial cathedral doused in history: the 5-golden-domed Christ the Savior Cathedral .

With a beautiful color-contrasting exterior that still falls short of the intricately painted inner walls and ceiling, this underrated (due to not being in Red Square with the other main cathedrals) attraction is a must for the bucket list.

24 – Zoom around town in a Soviet van

Soviet van tours in Moscow

If a hop-on-hop-off bus screams of cliche tourism, why not get a little more cultured by skirting around the city’s main haunts in a real, war-era soviet van?

Undeniably one of Russia’s most emblematic vehicles as both a symbol of a Soviet past and a comical cultural nod to its boring exterior (dubbed the “loaf of bread”), the UAZ-452 vans are iconic.

So whether you opt for a pub crawl, landmark sightseeing tour, or day of adventure with wintertime off-roading, be sure to ride shotgun in one of the loaves of bread at some stage!

  • soviet tours

25 – See sharks up close at the Moskvarium

Moskvarium, Moscow

The mightiest aquarium in Europe (by size), the Moskvarium is an impressive modern space dedicated to the beauty and diversity of aquatic life.

Located right on the outskirts of Moscow’s city center (about 20 minutes drive from Red Square), this huge complex encompasses over 70 interactive exhibits. These include live shows, and the chance to go swimming with dolphins — that are sure to impress the whole family.

26 – Go underground at the Bunker 42 Cold War Museum

Bunker 42 Cold War Museum, Moscow

In the depths of Moscow’s shadow-strewn streets, hidden 65 meters beneath the tourist crowds are a Cold War-era bunker and former secret communications center.

Bunker 42 was built in 1955 as a nuclear-proof hideaway, but today you can book tours that reveal its secrets and stories — a must for the common history buff.

  • Bunker 42 tickets

27 – Immserve yourself in the soviet culture at the VDNKh theme park and exhibition space

VDNKh, Moscow

Sprawling across the Ostankinsky District, VDNKh is a massive open-air museum and theme park paying homage to Russian industry and Soviet values.

The enormous complex is decked out with several gold-clad statues and palatial pavilions, each uniquely designed to represent different Soviet interests and endeavors, such as geology and the space race.

Hot tip: For a wonderful view of the Moscow skyline, be sure to jump on the Ferris wheel after riding the small roller coasters and merry-go-round.

28 – Take a trip to the Kolomenskoye Palace

Kolomenskoye Palace, Moscow

Overlooking the sparkling Moskva River about 20 kiometers south of central Moscow, the postcard-worthy Kolomenskoye Palace is a former royal estate. It’s now open to the public as an extensive park with carefully-kept gardens, including one of Russia’s oldest white stone churches (the tent-looking UNESCO-listed Ascension Church ).

It has walking trails through peaceful wooded areas and gorgeous views out over the region from its high hilltop location. The park has long been considered one of the hidden gems when it comes to things to do in Moscow.

29 – Enjoy the view from the Ostankino TV Tower

Ostankino TV Tower. Moscow

With the coveted claim to fame of being the tallest free-standing structure in Europe (and 11th tallest in the world) — standing above the Empire State Building, for reference — the 540.1-meter-tall Ostankino Tower is picturesquely located next to Park Dubovaya Roshcha, not too far from VDNH, the Moskvarium, and the widespread Park Ostankind.

So long as you’re not left lighthearted by heights, the 337-meter-high observation deck is the go-to spot for panoramic views.

30 – Blast off at the Museum of Cosmonautics

Museum of Cosmonautics, Moscow

One for the space nerds and future astronauts, the Museum of Cosmonautics is dedicated to the history, present-day relevance, and future possibilities of space exploration. It provides a spectacular insight into the Soviet perspective of the 1960s space race.

Located on a lovely green site in one corner of VDNKh, the museum features an outdoor planetarium, interactive displays for children, as well as inside exhibits that showcase original spacecraft parts.

For the best experience, consider a pre-arranged tour that includes access to both the Museum and VDNKh.

31 – Complete your Moscow culinary experience with a food tour

food tours in Moscow

Foodies, listen up! Moscow has gained a reputation for being one of the finest cities in Europe for foodies, with an excellent range of restaurants and bars.

For those looking for a complete Moscow culinary experience that includes some of the best hidden gems and experiences, food tours are an ideal way to go.

Depending on your tour of choice, expect to sample a few Pelmeni (dumplings), Blini (wafer-thin pancakes), and world-famous Ponchiki doughnuts. Then wash it all down with some locally-distilled vodka or Nalivka (a sweet berry-infused liquor).

  • food tours in Moscow

32 – Smell the flowers at the Main Botanical Garden — the largest botanical garden in Europe

Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow

Constructed in 1945, the Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences is a 340-hectare space of plant collections and lakeside walkways to explore.

It’s one of those places that gets better as you make your way around it on foot (or even rollerblades). There are many well-kept gardens, beautiful ponds filled with turtles and waterfowl, a charming Japanese Garden and some very rare trees.

33 – Wander around the Novodevichy Monastery

Novodevichy Monastery, Moscow

The Novodevichy Convent and surrounding Kremlin-style walls combine to be one of Moscow’s most picturesque sites — a UNESCO-listed complex that was founded in the 1500s and includes an interweaving of churches, cathedrals, bell towers and a cemetery.

After admiring the buildings, check out the monastery which is surrounded by green spaces perfect for a stroll and a snack.

To learn all about its architecture and history, opt for a guided tour as recommended by most travelers.

34 – Ride the coasters at Family Park SKAZKA

Family Park SKAZKA, Moscow

If you’re traveling with youngsters who seem to never be able to burn off their energy then make a beeline for the Krylatskoye District neighborhood, home to the popular SKAZKA adventure park.

Kids can enjoy everything from bumper cars to the petting zoo, while parents might want to pop into one of the cafes or restaurants.

Even if you don’t have kids in tow, the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters invite thrill-seekers of all ages.

35 – Understand the deeper meanings of “Soviet Jew” at the Jewish Museum & Centre of Tolerance

Jewish Museum & Centre of Tolerance, Moscow

Opened in 2012, the Jewish Museum and Centre of Tolerance is a fascinating institution dedicated to exploring and honoring the diverse complex Russian-Jewish history and culture.

Explore every facet of the role of Russian Jewry throughout the centuries — including food, artifacts, religious beliefs and cultural traditions. Visitors can also see an array of exhibits made from testimonial footage, as well as a large collection of works of Jewish artists.

For history buffs, the museum dives into the intriguing role that Jewish soldiers played during World War II.

36 – Cruise down the Moscow River!

boat tours in Moscow

For those looking for a unique perspective on the city, there are stacks of tours (romantic, sightseeing, luxury-themed or party-vibed) that explore Moscow from its riverfront.

Take in some of the most iconic landmarks around the Kremlin and Gorky Park on a boat. Cruises can also take you underneath bridges, entertain you with live music and offer insights into the landmarks that pass by with live audio narration.

  • boat tours in Moscow

37 – Grab a table at Café Pushkin

Café Pushkin, Moscow

A favorite of many Muscovites, Cafe Pushkin on Tverskoy Boulevard is an intimate spot to enjoy some authentic Russian dishes.

It’s hand-picked by locals for its traditional décor resembling a nobleman’s house and charming atmosphere (thanks largely to the rustic bookshelves). You’ll find that the menu consists mainly of classic European cuisine mixed with a few local favorites. It’s complemented by a wooden bar with a fine collection of vintage wines and regular live music.

38 – Spend the day at the Karibiya Aquapark

Karibiya Aquapark, Moscow

After a hard day exploring the city, why not spend some time out to relax and unwind at one of Moscow’s largest water parks?

Karibiya has a handful of pools (including a heated salt-water spa) and fun but not too wild slides, plus a bowling alley for the kids, a fitness center and bar for the adults. There’s something to keep everyone entertained.

39 – Take a day trip to Sergiev Posad

Sergiev Posad day trips from Moscow

A photographer’s dream with blue-and-gold cupolas contrasted by snow-white walls, the ancient town of Sergiev Posad (just over an hour’s drive from Moscow) is a quaint tourist favorite. It’s famous for being home to one of Russia’s most important and sacred monasteries — the free-to-visit Trinity Lavra St. Sergius monastery complex.

Founded in 1340 AD by Saint Sergius, today it serves as an active monastery where visitors are free to attend daily services. Admire its truly remarkable artworks and historic museum collections.

  • Sergiev Posad day trip

40 – Spot starfish (and monkeys?) at the Crocus City Oceanarium

Crocus City Oceanarium, Moscow

One of the latest attractions in Moscow, Crocus City Mall’s iceberg-shaped  Oceanarium is a vast three-floor aquarium. It has more than 5,000 species swimming gracefully under one roof — not to mention the reptiles, birds, and monkeys that also call this place home.

Since the mall also boasts shopping centers, a pair of concert halls and a skating rink, there’s no shortage of activities on offer to whisk away a rainy day.

41 – Button-mash at the Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines

Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines, Moscow

Where are the gamers at?

For anyone curious about the video games and technology of Russia’s yesteryear, there’s no better place to visit than this retro museum (complete with Soviet-era soda).

Filled with an impressive collection of more than 100 vintage arcade machines dating back as far as the late 1970s (like ”Pull the Turnip”), it’s sure to take you on a trip down memory lane.

42 – Take a walk through the Alexander Garden

Alexander Garden, Moscow

While the majority of Moscow’s other top attractions require a ticket or entry fee, there is at least one gem that doesn’t. It happens to be right on your doorstep if you’re staying anywhere near the Kremlin.

Alexander Garden (also known as Alexandrovsky Sad) is an expansive park that stretches the entire western wall of the Kremlin (nearly 1km in length). It’s filled to the brim with colorful flower beds, winding walkways and calming fountains.

Don’t miss the tomb of the Unknown Soldier while you’re there.

43 – Sign up for a dog sledding adventure!

dog sledding in Moscow

Cliche? Sure, maybe a little. Seriously fun? You better believe it!

Winter is coming, and that means it’s time to get out there and experience Russia the way only locals can — by dog sledding.

Typically lasting seven or eight hours, these outdoor adventures (which include hotel pick up and drop off) are a wonderful way to experience nature and immerse yourself in ancient Russian traditions — and hang out with a handful of adorable huskies, of course!

Seriously though, this is one of those things you’re going to want photos (and videos) for when you get back home because, really, words just wouldn’t do it justice.

44 – Walk beneath the Iberian Gate and Chapel

Iberian Gate and Chapel, Moscow

Facing away from the Red Square and linking Manezhnaya Square, the Iberian Gate and Chapel (sometimes called the Resurrection Gate) is overflowing with history. It acts as the spiritual entrance to the Red Square and the home of the wooden chapel that houses icons of the Iberian Virgin.

Many believe it is customary to kiss the Iberian icon before entering the gate and for boys to take off their hats. For an insight into the local culture, join a walking tour and learn more about the gate’s significance to religion and history.

To add to the importance, the gate is also the location of ‘Kilometer Zero’ — the official central point of Moscow.

45 – Play all day at the Dream Island theme park

Dream Island, Moscow

After opening its gates early in 2020, Dream Island earned itself the coveted title of being the largest indoor theme park in Europe (yep, that means it’s even open in the harsh winter).

It’s a delight for kids and adults alike. Throughout the park you’ll find an array of rides themed around classic cartoons like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Pinocchio, the Smurfs, Hotel Transylvania and Hello Kitty. It also has charming and well-arranged streets that transport you to bustling cities like London and Barcelona!

Throw in live performances, plenty of eateries, a cinema and a hotel, and you can see why it’s become all the rage recently.

46 – Race against the clock in an escape room

escape rooms in Moscow

An unmissable and quick activity for any budding Sherlock Holmes out there, escape rooms challenge your mind and require wit, teamwork, and logic. Figure out the puzzles and escape from each room before time runs up.

Moscow’s escape room games usually last around 60 minutes and cover a range of themes (like a USSR Nuclear Bunker or even an outdoor, app-led scavenger game) — perfect for the whole family.

47 – Chill out by the Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch's Ponds, Moscow

Surrounded by residential buildings in the fancy downtown Presnensky District, the enormous (9,900 square meters, to be exact) the Patriarshiye Prudy is a beautiful oasis. It’s frequented by dog walkers, picnickers, artists and musicians alike.

In summertime, you’ll find people picnicking on the grassy banks or sunbathing by the ponds. In the winter, it transforms into a magical wonderland of snow and ice, morphing into a popular public skating rink.

Directions on Google Maps

48 – Go behind the scenes at Luzhniki Stadium

Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

Moscow’s Lujniki Stadium is one of Europe’s biggest soccer complexes, capable of hosting some 80,000 fans with an electric-like atmosphere — as we saw during its phase as the main stadium of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Besides being the current home ground of Russia’s National Football Team, it also hosts concerts by some of the biggest international acts and was also the focal point of the 1980 Olympic Games.

If your trip doesn’t line up with any sellout matches, you can still join a backstage stadium tour that explores the dressing rooms, press conference room and the field.

49 – Head to Suzdal and Vladimir for a day

Suzdal and Vladimir day trips from Moscow

A fantastic option for anyone who wants to get out of the chaos of Moscow for a minute, these two towns are parts of the Golden Ring of ancient Russian cities. They present as perfect day trips, thanks to their rich history, diverse culture and white-drenched architecture.

In Suzdal , the Kremlin fortress is the main event, with the Cathedral of the Nativity (and its 13th-century Golden Doors) captivating visitors year after year. In Vladimir , the awe-inspiring Assumption Cathedral (Dormition Cathedral) teaks center stage, with its five golden domes making for a wonderful photo backdrop

Don’t feel like hiring a car? Take the hassle out of your getaway and book a pre-arranged tour that visits both ancient towns on the same day.

50 – Escape the crowds at the Botanic Gardens of Moscow State University

Botanic Gardens of Moscow State University, Moscow

Wielding the title of Russia’s oldest botanic garden, the Botanic Gardens of Moscow State University (founded in 1706) is a fantastic place to escape the city and learn about Russia’s rich flora.

The beautifully arranged garden boasts more than 6,000 plant species that span various climates across the world, allowing visitors to see everything from roses and tulips to cacti and bamboo trees!

51 – Climb inside a tank at the Kubinka Tank Museum

Kubinka Tank Museum, Moscow

A must-see for any military history buff, the Kubinka Tank Museum showcases dozens of tanks and armored vehicles from across the globe, with a particularly heavy focus on Soviet Union models (to be expected, right?).

The collection includes everything from Polish TKS tankettes to the only remaining Panzer VIII Maus, a captured WWI British Mark V and the Object 172 — as well as plenty of cannons, weapons and missiles.

Serving traditional Russian military meals and national staples, even the cafe-restaurant is military-themed!

52 – Sit front row at the Moscow International House of Music

Moscow International House of Music

A world-renowned performance complex on the picturesque Kosmodamianskaya Embankment, this state-of-the-art venue is best known for hosting Vladimir Spivakov’s Virtuosi of Moscow Chamber Orchestra. It showcases everything from classical concerts to jazz, folk music and more!

The venue’s three magnificent concert halls welcome an array of local and international performers. Check the website to see who’s taking center stage during your visit!

53 – Drift through fresh powder on a snowmobile!

snowmobiling in Moscow

While it’s not always winter (though if you want to make the most of your snowy trip, come between December and March), as soon as that first snowfall hits, it’s time for snowmobile tours. Make for a fantastic way to explore the out-of-the-way locations and magical forests beyond Moscow’s city limits.

Even if you’ve never ridden a ski-doo or snowmobile before, the friendly expert instructors will be with you every step of the way, with safety and enjoyment always priorities.

54 – Crank your head skywards in Moscow City

Moscow International Business Center, Moscow

A stark contrast to the ancient and colorful onion domes in the Red Square, Moscow City’s skyscape (aka the Moscow International Business Center ) is full of towering, modern glass-heavy (even twisting) skyscrapers. Many of which are vying at the top of the list of Europe’s tallest buildings.

At 374 meters tall and with 95 floors — and a wonderful restaurant on its 60th floor — the Moscow Federation Tower is a popular choice for tourists. Meanwhile, the 85th and 86th floor of the OKO Towers play host to a Russian restaurant and skating rink respectively.

Be sure to walk through the modern Bagration Bridge and, for the shopaholics, check out the stores and IMAX theater inside AFIMALL City.

55 – Check out Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye Park, Moscow

Within arm’s reach of the famed Red Square, the peaceful slice of greenery that is Zaryadye Park is a breath of beautiful and natural air amidst the concrete jungle. It’s the first new city park to be opened in Moscow for more than half a century.

At various points around the 10-hectare park, you’ll find a few restaurant pavilions, a media center, a museum and a botanical collection housing over a million plants. It also houses the two-stage Zaryadye Concert Hall where thousands of passersby take a seat on the steps every day.

While you’re there, don’t miss the Chambers of the Romanov Boyars, an unusual museum above the northern side of the park.

56 – Stroll around the cozy Hermitage Garden

Hermitage Garden, Moscow

Small yet incredibly charming and found conveniently smack-bang in the middle of the city, the Hermitage Garden is a perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of learning about Russia’s vast history.

Surrounded by the Sfera Theatre and The Kolobov Novaya Opera Theatre of Moscow , this lovely, leafy garden can be both a relaxing oasis or the prelude to an entertaining evening out.

57 – Treat yourself to a ballet show at the Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow

With a reputation that precedes it, the impressive and world-famous Bolshoi Theatre is a must for any theater lover. Its rich history is making it one of the most iconic theaters in Europe.

While there are several performances to choose from throughout the year — from ballet to opera, classic dramas and even acrobatic shows — you can also get your own private backstage tour.

58 – Get artsy, then party at ArtPlay

ArtPlay, Moscow

This old tea factory turned cultural hub of Moscow’s creative arts is heaven on earth for rotating exhibitions by local artists.

Depending on what piques your interest, you can join in on everything from live music to dance classes, art studio workshops, flea markets and film screenings here. However, after the sun goes down, its alter-ego comes out to play.

So, if you’re feeling peckish, stop into the Domozhilov restaurant nearby for a shashlik. Then wash it down at the English pub with a beer before partying it up at Rodnya, a pumping techno club.

59 – Head to the PANORAMA360 Observation Deck

PANORAMA360 Observation Deck, Moscow

A surefire hit for the social media feed, the observation deck at the top of Moscow’s Federation Tower skyscraper — PANORAMA360 — is a must-see selfie stop for its killer views and … ice cream factory.

From the 89th floor, you can soak in the wonder of Moscow old and new from above. It has floor-to-ceiling windows providing 360-degree vistas, a rotating restaurant and mini-cinema to boot.

60 – Throw down a picnic blanket in Sokolniki Park

Sokolniki Park, Moscow

One of the largest green spaces in Moscow, Sokolniki Park is a very popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Spread across the northeastern Sokolniki District, it’s the perfect distance from the city’s main haunts where the crowds remain small but the accessibility stays high.

With its many activities — from sports to live music to festivals — not much beats this park when it comes to outdoor fun!

61 – Catch a traditional Russian dance show

Russian dance shows in Moscow

To get a true sense of the rich and diverse culture in Moscow, you can’t go past one of its many folk dance shows.

While there are several to choose from, “Kostroma” and “The Golden Ring” are two crowd favorite choices. Each is thoroughly unique with traditional music and costumes sure to make for a once-in-a-lifetime night of entertainment.

Of course, due to high popularity, be sure to book in advance.

62 – Book a table at the White Rabbit restaurant bar

White Rabbit restaurant bar, Moscow

Perched above the historical center of Moscow on the 16th floor of the Smolensky Passage building, this lavish restaurant is a must-visit for any foodie-obsessed traveler. Why? Because it continually ranks as one of the top 50 restaurants in the world.

The drool-worthy menu made by fifth-generation chef Vladimir Mukhin consists of creative, beautiful plated meals. The coveted eaterie also boasts 360-degree panoramic views of the city and a fine collection of wines and cocktails.

63 – Have dinner inside the Vysoko-Petrovskiy Monastery

Vysoko-Petrovskiy Monastery, Moscow

Whether you’re an architecture or history buff, while visiting Moscow, it would be a shame to miss out on the rare chance to eat in an actual monastery.

This one is particularly special as it dates back some 700 years. Not only will you get to dig into an authentic Russian menu, but learn about the history of the building and (depending on your booking package) get a guided tour too.

64 – Pass by the ‘Children Are the Victims of Adult Vices’ sculpture

Children Are the Victims of Adult Vices sculpture, Moscow

This free public art installation in Bolotnaya square was created by Mihail Chemaikin in 2001. A somewhat controversial landmark, it depicts how children are influenced by vices — alcohol, theft, ignorance, violence, addiction, poverty and war, to name a few.

The sculpture’s uniqueness and thought-provoking nature makes it an essential stop on any day of wandering around.

65 – Get wild on a pub crawl!

pub crawls in Moscow

You’re on vacation, so it’s time to let your hair down, mingle with some fellow thirsty travelers and party it up Moscow-style!

High-energy pub crawls are a great way to get acquainted with new friends while seeing Moscow’s unique nightlife scene first-hand. Let the locals lead you to hidden gems, tourist hot spots and quirky dive bars.

If you don’t feel like walking, why not join a Soviet minivan crawl instead (where you can drink Soviet champagne onboard!)?

66 – Roll up for the Nikulin Circus!

Nikulin Circus, Moscow

If you haven’t had the chance to see a live circus before — and especially if you’re traveling with kids — why not head over to the Nikulin Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard?

It blends traditional Russian acrobatics with modern-day technology, animals, and the classic circular circus stage. This beloved local entertainment is also considered one of the most enjoyable things to do in Moscow!

67 – Get romantic on a Moskva River dinner cruise

dinner cruises in Moscow

What better way to take in the city’s skyline than from a luxury yacht as you enjoy entertainment, fine dining, and (strong) specialty drinks?

Whether you’re looking for something large that can accommodate groups of friends or something smaller with a bit more VIP style, there are several dinner cruises available to suit any taste and budget.

68 – Explore the wonderful Izmailovo District

Izmailovo District, Moscow

One of the city’s best-kept secrets, Izmailovo ‘s focal point is its Kremlin, a colorful wooden complex. Built in 2007, it has had unique museums and flea markets pop up nearby in the years since.

Throughout the area, you’ll uncover museums dedicated to vodka, break and Russian folk art. The district’s charming open-air flea market has all kinds of crafts and souvenirs are haggled on the daily.

Don’t miss Izmailovo Park , which is an enormous 300-hectare space that plays host to souvenir vendors, forest walking paths and even an ice rink in winter.

With so much to see in the district, savvy travelers typically opt for a guided tour.

  • Izmailovo tours

69 – Sip on a cocktail at the award-winning City Space Bar and Lounge

City Space Bar and Lounge, Moscow

Self-dubbed as one of the world’s top 10 bars, with accolades like Luxury Travel Guide’s Bar of the Year 2018, this iconic and luxurious watering hole doesn’t need much of an introduction.

Perched sky-high on the 34th floor of Swissotel Krasnye Holmy, the circular lounge bar slings signature cocktails and dishes up truly stunning views of the city.

Hot tip: While there’s never a poor time to visit, aim to arrive an hour or so before sunset, that’s when the city will truly sparkle below.

70 – Pamper yourself at the Sanduny Baths

Sanduny Baths, Moscow

If you’re looking for something to ease that throbbing headache after a night of pub crawling, why not try the famous Sanduny Baths , a quintessentially Russian experience?

Famed as one of the world’s most beautiful public bathhouses, Sanduny’s steam rooms and pools are said to be some of the best in Moscow. But for something totally unique, you can’t go past the birch twigs massage (read: beating).

71 – Spruce up your social media feed at some Insta-worthy restaurants

insta-worthy restaurants in Moscow

While a good meal is always part of the restaurant experience, getting a good pic for Instagram is half the fun!

Luckily, there are tons of excellent eateries that combine great food with gorgeous aesthetics.

Big Wine Freaks has a fantastic drink selection (naturally), and its dark, classy rooms full of elegant light fixtures and plush furniture bring to mind a spy’s hideout.

Meanwhile, Sempre adopts more of a naturalistic approach, surrounding diners with ferns and greenery.

And at Black Market Moscow , you can choose between indoor and outdoor spaces, each featuring their own unique designs and dining experiences.

Take a bite and snap some pics!

72 – Unleash your inner party animal at the Night clubs

nightlife in Moscow

When the sun goes down, you’ll get to see a whole new side of Moscow: its amazing nightlife!

Head to Propaganda for a bite or a beverage, then dance to some quality club tunes.

Or get a little wild at Chesterfield , where you can pay a flat fee and drink as much as you want – the perfect recipe for fun!

And at Rock’N’ Roll , there’s a new form of excitement every day, from DJ sets to live bands, all playing a lively mix of rock music from across the decades.

With all this excitement, you won’t want to book anything early the next day!

How to get to Moscow?

Unless you’re feeling up to the challenge of a long train journey, you’ll most likely be flying into Moscow.

Luckily, it has three international airports to choose from: Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, and Domodedovo.

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be able to easily reach the city via the Aeroexpress train.

Where to stay in Moscow?

Golden Ring Hotel  will make you feel like you’re on top of the world, whether you’re getting pampered at the beauty salon or enjoying a meal in the rooftop restaurants.

Or check in to Radisson Slavyanskaya Hotel & Business Center , which boasts everything from riverside views and a gym to nearby shopping areas and relaxing Turkish baths.

At AZIMUT Hotel Olympic Moscow , the massages, international cuisine, sauna, and swimming pool will keep you happily occupied in between excursions.

And at sister property AZIMUT Hotel Smolenskaya Moscow , you can savor a nice meal or admire the scenery from the lounge, or stroll over to Gorky Park or roam along Stary Arbat Street.

Meanwhile, Oblaka Hotel blends simple charm and a convenient location, with charming red brick exteriors and easy access to historic sites and a metro station.

  • best hotels in Moscow

Visiting Moscow on a budget?

There’s nothing like seeing a city on foot… especially on a free walking tour !

These excursions aren’t just a way to save money while still learning a lot; they also offer a wonderful opportunity to gain local perspectives, courtesy of your guides.

But despite the name, they do accept tips for a job well done, so bring a bit of money with you!

Where to go next?

If you’re short on time but still want to see the best of Moscow, try some multi-day tours ; they’ll provide all of the coolest sights and experiences in an efficient format.

After that, it’s time to start exploring further afield!

Though it’s a bit of a trek, St. Petersburg is well worth the journey!

With its famously decadent buildings to its lively arts scene, this is the perfect place to soak up some culture; but there are also some more offbeat options, like folk shows, vodka tastings, and even an amusement park!

And from the jaw-dropping designs of the metro stations (yes, you read that correctly) to the glimmer of Faberge eggs, it showcases beauty at every turn.

Ready to go beyond Russia?

Dive into the best places to visit in Europe , a smorgasbord of art and history, nature and architecture, showcasing some of the most beloved cities and countries in the world.

Final thoughts

While Russia’s capital may seem imposing, its dynamic culture, live-wire entertainment scene, and remarkable history make it an unbeatable destination, with unique adventures that will linger in your memory long after you’ve returned home.

You may feel a little overwhelmed by all of the incredible things to do in Moscow… but that’s all the more reason to come back!

If you have any other must-see suggestions, noteworthy day trips or quintessential tours worth booking, feel free to write in the comments!

As always, happy travels!

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    September 15, 2021 For many, opening and managing a venue is a dream come true. However, as with every creative endeavor, it requires as much rational planning as passion. The most important part is building a business plan for your live music venue. It pays to take this part of the process seriously.

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    Your music business plan should include 10 sections as follows: Executive Summary Your executive summary provides an introduction to your music business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan. The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader.

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    1. Executive Summary 2. Company Overview 3. Industry Analysis 4. Customer Analysis 5. Competitive Analysis 6. Marketing Plan 7. Operations Plan 8. Management Team 9. Financial Plan Next Section: Executive Summary > Event Space Business Plan FAQs What Is an Event Venue Business Plan? What Are the Main Types of Event Venues?

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    Identify the unique selling proposition: Determine what sets the live music venue apart from the competition. Whether it's a focus on emerging local talent or a commitment to showcasing a specific genre, having a distinct niche can attract a loyal and dedicated audience.

  10. Starting a Live Music Venue

    What You Need to Start a Live Music Venue. From a purely business standpoint, some things you may need for starting your live music venue include: A name. A logo. A business license. A food and drink permit. Food and beverage options. A business bank account. A business credit card.

  11. Live Music Venue: The Ultimate Business Idea

    Key Takeaways John Smith, a renowned entrepreneur, is behind the innovative live music venue concept. The venue will be located in downtown Los Angeles, taking advantage of the city's vibrant music scene. The revenue-share model ensures a profitable business while incentivizing high-quality collaborations with artists and promoters.

  12. Music Theater Business Plan Example

    1.1 Mission Family Fair, Inc. produces high quality, affordable entertainment in the elegant Market Plaza Showplace. It brings family-oriented live entertainment in a private function facility accessible to those who would otherwise travel out of the community to enjoy similar activities.

  13. 5 Small Business Tips for Starting A Successful Music Venue

    Lessons for creating a thoughtful, successful music venue. While most entrepreneurs won't need to consider tuning a room for live sound, there are still many key lessons small businesses can take from the Tower's success and growth. Building a healthy brand focused on customer experience, expanding profit opportunities, a people-first approach ...

  14. A Straightforward Bar Music Venue Business Plan

    Here's an example: A handle of vodka costs you $20 You sell 40 servings from that bottle, at $3.50 each That's means you bring in $140 total ($3.50 x 40) In this case, your pouring cost is 20 (the cost of the bottle) / 140 (your profit) x 100, or 14.3%. Pouring cost will vary depending on your mark-ups on beer, wine, and liquor.

  15. Live Music Venue Small Business Idea and Business Plan

    Step 1. Your business information To develop a proper Live Music Venue business plan with the free business plan builder template, it is important to answer each of the questions about your business to the best of your abilities. What is your business? What are the products/services you provide? Who are your customers? What are your goals…etc?

  16. Event Venue Business Plan [Free Template]

    Create a Business Plan If you are planning to start a new event venue business, the first thing you will need is a business plan. Use our sample event venue business plan created using Upmetrics business plan software to start writing your business plan in no time.

  17. How to Write a Business Plan for a Live Music Restaurant

    3. Spell out your vision for your restaurant in the opening statement of your business plan. Use demographic studies to expand on the viability of live entertainment as a draw and show how ...

  18. Insanely Beautiful and Unforgettable Concert Venues in Moscow

    5. Izvestiya Hall - Moscow. Izvestiya Hall is considered to be one of the most popular music and event venues in the city, located in the Tverskaya neighbourhood, near the Pushkin monument. This special place hosts a variety of events that you wouldn't find at venues like the Tchaikovsky Concert Hall.

  19. Live Music Venue Financial Plan Ready to Convince Investors

    A Live Music Venue business plan requires careful consideration of various aspects to operate successfully, particularly with regards to revenue streams and expenses. Financial projections need to factor in venue booking fees, musician payouts, live performance revenue sources, ticket sales and pricing, bar and food sales projections, marketing ...

  20. Moscow International House of Music

    Also known as the Moscow International House of Music ( Dom Muzyki ), it is situated on the Kosmodamianskaya Embankment off the Garden Ring Road. [2] The architects were Yury Gnedovsky, Vladilen Krasilnikov, Dmitry Solopov, Margarita Gavrilova, and Sergey Gnedovsky of Krasniye Kholmy Russian Cultural-business Centre and Tovarishestvo Teatralniy ...

  21. What is MoSCoW Prioritization?

    MoSCoW prioritization, also known as the MoSCoW method or MoSCoW analysis, is a popular prioritization technique for managing requirements. The acronym MoSCoW represents four categories of initiatives: must-have, should-have, could-have, and won't-have, or will not have right now. Some companies also use the "W" in MoSCoW to mean "wish.".

  22. Create a Winning Live Music Venue Business Plan Template

    Yes, the Live Music Venue business plan template can be easily customized to suit specific needs or locations. As it is provided in MS Word format, users can edit and tailor the content to reflect their unique business requirements, local regulations, and desired market positioning. The template's flexibility allows entrepreneurs to adapt the ...

  23. 72 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Moscow

    52 - Sit front row at the Moscow International House of Music. A world-renowned performance complex on the picturesque Kosmodamianskaya Embankment, this state-of-the-art venue is best known for hosting Vladimir Spivakov's Virtuosi of Moscow Chamber Orchestra. It showcases everything from classical concerts to jazz, folk music and more!