I've done this in some previous years but due for an update. People who are coming to the rally for the first time often ask about this. So here goes:
Simple stuff:
An open mind
A pad and paper
Casual clothes such as T-shirts and jeans
A sweatshirt such as a hoodie in case the weather gets cool and also because the main ballroom can be very chilly
Notes about food:
The hotel restaurant, The Daily Grill, has great food but is pricey. I suggest at least one dinner there to enjoy it.
Less expensive food options include Denny's, a long block down and Subway just down the street.
Also, the Thai restaurant, next door to the hotel, has good & reasonably priced meals.
There is free coffee in your room.
There are gas station convenience stores not far away. You can stock up on things like cracker packs, protein bars, soft drinks, etc. I usually have a protein bar and in-room coffee for breakfast to save a few bucks. The same items are more expensive in the hotel gift shop.
BUSINESS CARDS
A must. The card should have a QR code with a link to your music, a tag line or descriptor for what you are (e.g. "Composer For Film/TV"), your phone number & email address. Keep in mind that your music might not be listened to for a long time so make sure what's on that QR code link stays active with what you want to show. A photo of yourself is also a good idea. Folks get tons of cards and a photo will help them recall who they spoke to at the bar, etc.
Also, keep in easy to read!! The worst is when the text blends in to the color of the background or is in a ridiculously small font.
MUSIC
Things have changed a lot since the CD days. You should have your music on a personal device. If your device requires an adapter for standard headphones, bring it! When I say have it on your device, I recommend it being local to your device, if possible, and not depend on an internet link. There IS WiFi service there but you never know. A mentor session is only 15 minutes. No time to fumble around for your music! Make sure you test things before you leave for the rally.
There may be some classes about lyrics where having some lyric sheets with you could be helpful. So bring a few of your best just in case (if you care about lyric writing).
You might bring a few CDs in case the opportunity comes up to give one to someone but I wouldn't make a ton of them like we did in the old days. Most of mine became drink coasters when I got home. When it comes to CD packaging, keep it light and simple! A full size or even slim jewel case is harder for someone to take home in their crowded suitcase. A CD envelope is more convenient for the folks you give the CD to. Make sure you put a track list on the envelope or case, not just on the CD! People like to glance at the track list while listening and they obviously can't if that's in the player. And your contact info should be on everything as things can get easily separated.
OTHER
Registration usually opens late Thursday afternoon. A line forms early so you may want to get on line as soon as you can. Hanging out on the line is actually a good way to make new music friends. The advantage of registering as early as possible is getting a better choice of mentor for your 1:1 mentor session.
Prepare early, going through the materials before such as on the plane ride. There are a lot of events taking place at the same time, circle the ones you are interested in. You can't do everything so prioritize. Also circle your first few choices for mentor. Planning ahead can keep you from getting too overwhelmed when you get there.
For your 1:1 mentor session, be very prepared as far as lining up the tracks you want to play for the mentor, what questions you might have, etc.
After a panelist event, NEVER rush the stage to force your CD or card on one of the panelists.
If you meet an A&R person at the bar, don't start talking about yourself and trying to force your music on them. Just talk to them as you would anyone else you meet. If they ask about you and your music, you can respond accordingly.
Well, that's all for now. I'll come back as I think about more. Feel free to ask questions or add to my info on this thread.
See ya there!
Casey
