Beating the weather: Tips for Surviving Outdoor Gigs

There's nothing quite like playing an outdoor show. Fresh air, festival crowds, and a great atmosphere make them some of the most enjoyable gigs you'll play. The only problem? The weather doesn't care about your setlist. Whether you're baking in the summer sun or wondering if your kit needs a life jacket, every season brings its own challenges. Here are a few tips to help you stay prepared.

Hot and Sunny Gigs

Everyone loves a sunny festival... until you're sat behind a black drum kit for an hour. Drumming is physically demanding at the best of times, and high temperatures can quickly leave you feeling drained. Start hydrating well before your set rather than waiting until you feel thirsty. Even mild dehydration can affect your concentration, stamina and timing, so keep a bottle of water within easy reach and sip regularly before and after you play. Keep a towel nearby to deal with sweaty hands, wear sunscreen even under a stage canopy, remember that cymbals get surprisingly hot in direct sunlight, and always pack spare sticks as heat and sweat can take their toll.

Rainy Conditions

Rain is probably every drummer's least favourite forecast. Even with a covered stage, wind-driven rain has an annoying habit of finding your drums. Pack waterproof covers for your drums and hardware. Protect electronic gear as quickly as possible. Keep towels handy for wet drum heads, avoid rushing your setup on slippery hardware, and remember that no gig is worth risking electrical safety.

Windy Weather

Wind rarely gets much attention, but it can create plenty of problems. One minute your setlist is beside your hi-hat, the next it's heading towards the burger van. Tape or clip your setlist in place. Double-check lightweight stands, secure overhead microphones where possible, bring extra gaffer tape, and wipe dust from your kit before packing away after dry, windy shows.

Cold Weather

Playing in winter isn't impossible, but it does require a little extra preparation. Cold muscles don't move as well, and drum heads can react differently to lower temperatures. Warm up your hands before playing, stretch your wrists and shoulders, allow your drums time to acclimatise before tuning, and wear warm layers during setup and pack-down. Your fingers will thank you later.

Humid Conditions

Humidity is the sneaky one. Nothing looks wrong, but your sticks feel slippery, tuning starts to drift and everything feels just a little sticky. Carry spare sticks, keep a dry cloth nearby, expect to make small tuning adjustments, wipe down your hardware after the show and store your drums properly to prevent moisture damage.

Outdoor Gig Essentials

A few items are worth having at every outdoor show: water, towels, spare sticks, gaffer tape, waterproof covers, spare clothes, a drum key and gloves for winter setup. Of all of these, water is probably the most overlooked. Staying hydrated helps maintain energy levels, concentration and endurance, especially during long festival days when you're setting up, sound-checking and performing in the heat.

Final Thoughts

Every outdoor gig is different, presenting a unique set of challenges and experiences that can significantly impact the overall atmosphere and enjoyment of the event. Some days you'll find yourself battling against the relentless blaze of the sun, with its harsh rays beating down on you, making hydration and sun protection essential. On other occasions, you might spend the afternoon anxiously watching dark clouds gather ominously overhead, hoping they will pass by without unleashing their rain or wind upon your carefully arranged setup. Each of these scenarios requires a different approach and mindset, highlighting the unpredictability of outdoor performances.

The best advice for anyone involved in outdoor gigs is simple but effective: be prepared. Preparation is not just about packing your gear; it encompasses a comprehensive strategy that includes checking the weather forecast, understanding the venue's layout, and having contingency plans in place. A little planning goes a long way, ensuring that you have everything you need to face the elements, whether that means sunscreen and hats for sunny days or tarps and raincoats for unexpected showers.

Moreover, if you can adapt to whatever the weather throws at you, whether it be sudden gusts of wind that threaten to topple your equipment or a sudden downpour that requires you to cover your gear quickly, you'll find that you can minimize disruptions. This adaptability allows you to spend less time worrying about your gear and more time enjoying the gig itself, immersing yourself in the music, the audience, and the overall vibe of the event. By being proactive and ready for any situation, you not only enhance your own experience but also contribute to a more enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved, from the performers to the attendees.

In conclusion, embracing the unpredictability of outdoor gigs with a well-thought-out preparation strategy is key to navigating the various challenges that come your way. Whether facing the sweltering heat or the threat of rain, your ability to remain composed and adaptable will allow you to focus on what truly matters: the music.