🎹 Checklist for keyboard players: How to be perfectly prepared for every performance

🎹 Checklist for keyboard players: How to be perfectly prepared for every performance

A performance needs to run smoothly – confidently, securely, and without any unpleasant surprises. To make sure you don't forget anything, here's a handy checklist. Further down you'll find detailed explanations for each point.

📝 The quick checklist (to tick off)

• Keyboard(s)
• Tripod(s) & iPad/tablet holder(s)
• Audio cable (including spare)
• DI boxes
• MIDI & USB cables (including spares)
• Power supplies & power cords
• Power strip & extension cord
• Headphones & headphone amplifier (monitor)
• Rack with all accessories (computer, interface, controller, tested & ready to use)
• Cases/bags (+ possibly rain cover)
• Backups (USB stick, sounds, projects)
• Setlist (iPad) + pad & pen
• Gaffer tape, power bank, drum key for the drummer
• Multitool, screwdriver
• Towel, deodorant, flashlight, spare batteries
• Water, snacks, headache tablets
• Umbrella, change of clothes, brush, hand cream

✅ The detailed explanation

1. Instruments & Stands

Take the keyboards you actually play – no more, no less. We'll cover a backup in a separate article. Is it necessary? Don't forget your keyboard stand, and ideally a second tablet/iPad holder as well: small, lightweight, and a good backup plan in case the first one breaks.

2. Cables & electricity – the lifelines

No cables, no sound. So pack audio cables, MIDI and USB cables, power supplies, and IEC power cords. This also includes power strips and extension cords. Important: Always carry spare cables – experience shows they're the ones that break most quickly at gigs. And every technician appreciates having their own high-quality DI boxes.

3. Monitoring & Soundcheck

Your headphones are your lifesaver. You absolutely need a headphone amplifier for them; otherwise, you won't hear yourself the way you're used to. Only then will your setup run stably and without surprises.

4. Computer, Rack & Software

If you are working with software or additional technology, your entire rack must be brought along – including computer (e.g. Mac mini or laptop), audio interface, controller and all accessories.

Very important: Check beforehand that everything is actually connected, tested, and ready to use. Many errors occur because people switch between studio and live computers or because a cable was left in the rack.

Rule of thumb: If you have a rack, then get it with everything that belongs to it – and in such a way that it is ready to play immediately.

5. Transport & Protection

Your cases or bags are essential. For open-air gigs, also consider bringing rain protection. Equipment must not get wet – everything simply has to run smoothly.

6. Backups & Emergency Plan

A secure computer is essential. Keep your sounds and projects backed up on a USB drive as well. Think of a plan B: What will you do if your main computer or a device fails? Nothing is worse than being helpless on stage.

7. Organization & Notes

The setlist on the iPad ensures clarity. A notepad and pen are essential – you can quickly jot down changes to the setlist, spontaneous ideas, or new song sequences.

8. Small helpers – inconspicuous, but indispensable

Duct tape, a power bank, and a tuning key ;) belong in your standard kit. They're not big, not heavy – but you'll be annoyed if they're missing.

9. Everyday life on stage

Pack a towel, spare batteries, and a flashlight. Especially in dark backstage situations, you'll be glad you're not fumbling around blindly. Even your phone can double as a flashlight.

10. Personal well-being

Don't forget yourself. Water, small snacks, headache tablets, an umbrella for the journey, a change of clothes, a brush and hand cream – it sounds trivial, but it makes the difference between stress and professionalism.

Conclusion

A keyboardist going on stage should be perfectly prepared, not only musically but also organizationally. Your setup must be stable, secure, and reliable – no loose cables, no forgotten power supplies, no chaos. This checklist will ensure you're on the safe side.

Make it a routine to go through the list before every gig. This way, you'll not only play with ease, but you'll also project exactly that: confidence.