Small gigs, big impact: presence in late summer

I still remember a late summer gig somewhere between fields, drinks trolleys and a stage on pallets. There were maybe 40 people there, and I knew: no lights, no big technology, no glamor. And yet - I loved every second of it.

Because presence is not created by size. It is created through connection.

Many people think that small stages are "worth" less. But they can be a real game changer for your development. This is where you practice closeness, respond directly to your audience and learn to trust yourself - without a safety net.

So if you're out and about at smaller summer festivals, street music spots or open airs over the next few weeks, don't underestimate it. These gigs give you something that you often don't get on big stages: real feedback.

Here are a few things I've learned from these experiences:

1. You can start small - but make a big impact
   Presence does not mean volume. It means clarity, focus and emotional honesty. When you are there, really there, people feel it - no matter how many there are.

2. It's not about applause, it's about connection
   I once said: "I love living and would like to live like this forever." This is exactly the feeling you get when you really embrace the moment on stage. The energy that flows there is priceless.

3. Practicing under real conditions is priceless
   Small stages are like training camps - with a real audience. No coach or video can replace this experience.

And you might learn more about yourself at a mini festival in the open air than at an elaborately planned showcase.


Here is my personal list of helpers for outdoor gigs:
Compact, portable amplifiers

Small music stand to take away

Field Recorder

Kind regards