Two New Venues, One Big Weekend of Lessons

Showcasing My Music: A Big Weekend of Live Performances

Last weekend was a significant one for me — I performed at two brand-new venues in just two days.

Friday night: Cypher Brewery, Gungahlin (7–10 pm)

Sunday afternoon: Jerrabomberra Hotel (1–5 pm)

It was one of those weekends where everything came together — new venues, new audiences, and plenty of learning along the way.

Gearing Up for Success

For both shows, I ran the same compact setup:

• JBL EON MK2 tower — battery-powered and rock-solid

• Wireless mic and guitar systems for a clean, cable-free stage

• iPad with all songs in setlist order

• PAR lights and my Richard Ings neon sign for a touch of stage colour

  
  

Setup took about 30 minutes, while pack-down only took 15. Having a consistent rig helps me walk into new venues with confidence. I know my gear, how it all connects, and that it will just work.

My simple but reliable setup for both gigs — clean, quick and portable.

Cypher Brewery — Friday Night Energy

Cypher Brewery was buzzing. The staff were great, the crowd was lively, and the warm Friday night vibe made me want to dig in and play hard. The PAR lights and neon sign added a nice visual glow that suited the brewery perfectly.

Cypher Brewery — great crowd, great vibe, and a lesson in vocal pacing.

I’ll admit, I was eager to impress. I went all out vocally — full energy from the first song. It felt fantastic at the time, but by Saturday morning, I could barely talk.

Songs that really landed:

• Big Yellow Taxi (new and well-received)

• Love Really Hurts Without You

• She Will Be Loved

• Pink Pony Club

• I Still Call Australia Home

• The Gambler

  
  

It was a strong night, and it served as a gentle reminder to balance enthusiasm with taking care of my voice.

Jerrabomberra Hotel — Sunday Afternoon Reset

Sunday had a different feel. The Bathurst race and the end of school holidays meant a quieter crowd. However, quieter gigs are perfect for refining tone, pacing, and phrasing.

After Friday’s strain, I came armed with honey and lemon, vocal warm-ups, and a revised setlist that was kinder on my voice. I used the same gear, but focused on smoother energy and control rather than sheer volume.

Songs still in progress:

• Torn

• I Want It That Way

  
  

I’m so close but slightly astray melodically in sections.

Sunday afternoon at Jerra — quieter crowd, valuable lessons.

What I Learned About Performing

• It’s not about pushing — it’s about pacing.

• Smart setlist design protects your voice during long shows.

• Reliable gear keeps focus on the music, not the tech.

• Even a quiet room can teach something new.

  
  

Two new venues in one weekend taught me as much about restraint as performance.

Next Steps in My Musical Journey

Next major show:

To All My Friends, Cook Shops ACT

Saturday 25 October, 5:30 – 8:30 pm

Next up — To All My Friends, Cook Shops, 25 October.

Back at Jerrabomberra Hotel:

Saturday 7 December

Thanks to both venues for supporting live local music — two gigs, two lessons, and plenty more to come. I look forward to showcasing my music to venues and booking agents looking for solo acoustic musicians for their venues, functions, and corporate events.