To create a presence on the Internet, you should be thorough in designing your website. Some sites allow you to build your own website but it may be worth the extra expense to have it done by a professional. Check out designers before you hire them. Ask to see samples of their work or a design portfolio. Talk to other clients about their experience with your potential designer. If you decide to build your own website, check out all of the "build your own" sites (available templates and website packages) before choosing one.
Regardless of whether you build your own site or go with a designer, there are several things to keep in mind. Consider what type of image you want to project with colors, font types, pictures, and layout. Make your group's name and contact information prominent on your home page. Be sure that your website pages flow logically, that information is clear and concise (i.e., rates, packages and deals) and that any links work correctly. Use pictures that show your group in action in addition to professional shots. The finished product should reflect the personality and mission of your group.
Include music samples on your website. If you have a live performing group, put audio samples on your site. Composers and recording specialists can also include samples of their work in the same way. If you specialize in selling sheet music, include a link to a sample page of music. Live performing groups should keep an updated itinerary posted on their website. Blogs are a good way to keep your content fresh and updated and spread the news about performances, awards and other notable events in the life of your music group.
Once you have established your own website, register with search engines. Also, consider joining other websites, especially those dedicated to musicians. These sites are a hub for making your group accessible to people doing searches for music groups, like Gigmasters and Weddingwire. These sites facilitate contact with people looking to hire musicians and help you get traffic to your personal website, which in turn boosts search engine rankings. Once you establish yourself as a music presence on the Internet, you will find that your music business will begin to grow tremendously.