We were delighted to speak to vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Charlie Barnes from indie rock band Bastille as part of our Summer Academy back in August 2020. Here, he shares his own experiences of being a touring musician and what an average day typically looks like when he’s on tour with the band. Our Foundation Year Curriculum Manager and Senior Lecturer Chris Quick interviews Charlie below.
Activity: Planning a World Tour
Watch the above interview video with Charlie Barnes from Bastille about what it’s like playing with a world renowned band and touring the world.
Task
Your record label is about to release your band’s next album and would like you to do a 20-show world tour to promote it. They need to decide with your Agent and Management team where in the world and what venues you want to play. Your team would like your input to plan it. Use the accompanying ‘World Planning Sheet’ to complete the task below.
Things to think about:
- When in the year should/would you like to tour to avoid clashing with some of the big UK festivals?
- Where in the world would you like to play?
- What venues would you like to play at? Big stadiums, famous venues or cool outdoor locations?
- When should you have days off and what could you do?
- How will the band travel between the gigs and where will they stay?
- How far apart are the shows and how long does it take to get there?
- How many days will you need, including days off and travel days?
Download the Activity Instructions sheet here
Download the World Planning Sheet here
