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Industries2025-12-26
11 min read

Building Your Digital EPK: Modern Electronic Press Kit for Musicians

By Amadeus Webdesign

Create a professional Electronic Press Kit (EPK) that gets you bookings. Everything agents, venues, and festivals need in one downloadable package—or better yet, on your website.


Digital EPK for Musicians: Your 24/7 Booking Agent


A festival director is considering you for next season. It's 11 PM. They want to review your materials NOW.


What happens?
Musician A: "Let me email you my bio and some links tomorrow..." Musician B: "Everything's at myname-music.com/epk"
Who do you think gets remembered?

Your Electronic Press Kit (EPK) is your digital audition. It needs to be professional, complete, and instantly accessible.


In this article, I'll show you exactly how to create an EPK that booking agents, venues, and festivals actually want to use.


What is an Electronic Press Kit (EPK)?


The Digital Evolution of Press Materials


Old way (Physical press kit):
  • Printed bio
  • CD with recordings
  • Physical photos (8x10 glossies)
  • Press clippings (photocopies)
  • Mailed in folder

  • Cost: €20-50 per kit Delivery: 3-7 days Updates: Print new materials
    Modern way (Electronic Press Kit):
  • Digital bio (multiple formats)
  • Audio/video links or files
  • High-res photos (downloadable)
  • Digital press clippings
  • Accessible instantly online

  • Cost: €0 per "kit" Delivery: Instant Updates: Change once, updated everywhere

    Two EPK Formats (You Need Both)


    1. Website EPK Page
  • Lives on your website
  • Always accessible
  • Always current
  • Professional presentation
  • Individual downloads + preview

  • Best for: Quick access, sharing link
    2. Downloadable PDF EPK
  • Complete package in one file
  • Offline access
  • Easy to forward
  • Print-friendly if needed

  • Best for: Email attachments, applications
    Ideal: Both formats available on your website

    Essential EPK Components


    1. Professional Biography


    You need THREE versions:
    One-Liner (25-40 words):

    > *Salzburg-based violinist Anna Schmidt performs internationally as soloist and chamber musician, specializing in contemporary Austrian composers and baroque repertoire.*


    Use for: Social media, program notes, quick introductions
    Short Bio (100-150 words):

    Full paragraph covering:

  • Current position/activity
  • Notable achievements
  • Education highlights
  • Unique specialization
  • Current projects

  • Use for: Festival applications, concert programs, website
    Long Bio (400-600 words):

    Comprehensive narrative including:

  • Musical background and training
  • Career highlights and milestones
  • Notable performances and collaborations
  • Repertoire specializations
  • Awards and recognition
  • Artistic philosophy
  • Current and upcoming projects

  • Use for: Press releases, detailed applications, media features
    Format requirements:
  • PDF (printable)
  • Word doc (editable for organizers)
  • Plain text (web copy-paste)
  • All three lengths in all three formats

  • 2. High-Resolution Photos


    What you need:
    Professional Headshot:
  • Resolution: 300 DPI, minimum 2000x3000 pixels
  • Format: JPG (and RAW if you have)
  • Versions: Color AND black & white
  • Orientation: Both vertical and horizontal
  • Professional quality (hire photographer: €200-400)

  • Action/Performance Photos:
  • 3-5 images minimum
  • You performing (solo and/or ensemble)
  • Various settings and angles
  • Professional quality
  • Properly lit and composed

  • File naming convention:

    ```

    Schmidt-Anna-Violin-Headshot-Color-300dpi.jpg

    Schmidt-Anna-Performance-Chamber-2024.jpg

    Schmidt-Anna-Salzburg-Festival-Action.jpg

    ```


    Organization:
  • Separate folder: "Photos - Anna Schmidt"
  • Include photo credits file
  • File size: Full resolution (5-15MB) AND web-optimized (200-500KB)

  • Copyright note:

    Always include photographer credits:

    > *Photos by Maria Photography © 2025. For press use only.*


    3. Audio Samples


    Selection strategy:
    Quality over quantity:
  • 3-5 tracks maximum
  • Your absolute best performances
  • Variety of styles/periods
  • Professional recording quality

  • What to include:
  • Flagship piece (your signature)
  • Contrasting styles (baroque + contemporary)
  • Solo and collaborative (if relevant)
  • Recent recordings (last 2-3 years)

  • Format options:
    Streaming links (easiest):
  • SoundCloud
  • Spotify
  • YouTube (audio)
  • Bandcamp

  • Direct files (professional):
  • MP3 (320kbps) for quick download
  • WAV/FLAC for highest quality
  • Named clearly: "Schmidt-Anna-Bach-Partita-No2.mp3"

  • Include:
  • Track listing with details
  • Recording date and venue
  • Ensemble/collaborators if applicable
  • Engineer/producer credits

  • 4. Video Materials


    Essential video content:
    Performance Highlight Reel (3-5 minutes):
  • Best moments from multiple performances
  • Professional editing
  • Various repertoire
  • High quality video and audio

  • Full Performance Videos (2-3 pieces):
  • Complete movements or pieces
  • Unedited or minimal editing
  • Professional recording quality
  • Recent (last 1-2 years)

  • Video format:
  • 1080p minimum (4K if available)
  • YouTube or Vimeo (private or public)
  • Downloadable files: MP4 (H.264)

  • Production quality matters:
  • Professional lighting
  • Clear audio (separate recording synced)
  • Stable camera work
  • Good framing and composition

  • Budget option:
  • Concert recordings (permission from venue)
  • Colleague with good camera + editing skills
  • University recording students

  • 5. Repertoire List


    Comprehensive but organized:
    Classical musicians:

    ```

    SOLO REPERTOIRE


    Baroque:

    J.S. Bach - Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin, BWV 1001-1006 (complete)

    G.F. Handel - Violin Sonata in D major, HWV 371


    Classical/Romantic:

    W.A. Mozart - Violin Concerto No. 3-5

    J. Brahms - Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 77

    P. Tchaikovsky - Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 35


    20th/21st Century:

    A. Berg - Violin Concerto

    A. Pärt - Fratres


    CHAMBER MUSIC


    String Quartet:

    Haydn - Quartets Op. 76

    Beethoven - Quartets Op. 18, 59, 131

    Bartók - Quartet No. 4


    Piano Trio:

    Brahms - Piano Trio No. 1 in B major

    Shostakovich - Piano Trio No. 2 in E minor

    ```


    Contemporary/Jazz musicians:
  • Organize by genre or mood
  • Include original compositions
  • Note special repertoire (weddings, corporate, etc.)
  • Indicate flexibility for requests

  • Format:
  • PDF for download
  • Web page for quick reference
  • Indicate asterisk (*) for pieces available on short notice

  • 6. Reviews & Press Clippings


    What to include:
    Media reviews:
  • Newspaper/magazine reviews
  • Blog features
  • Radio mentions
  • Online press

  • Format:
  • Quote with attribution
  • Publication name and date
  • Link to full article (if online)
  • PDF scan (if print)

  • Selection:
  • 5-10 best quotes
  • Variety of sources
  • Recent (last 3-5 years)
  • Highlights different strengths

  • Example:

    > *"Schmidt's interpretation of the Bach Partitas displayed remarkable technical prowess and deep musical insight."*

    > — Die Presse, January 2024


    Permission:

    Ensure you have rights to use press materials.


    7. Technical Rider (If Applicable)


    For solo recitals/concertos:
    Stage requirements:
  • Preferred piano (make/model)
  • Chair specifications
  • Music stand preferences
  • Acoustic requirements

  • Equipment needs:
  • Amplification (if needed)
  • Microphones
  • Special instruments
  • Technical setup time

  • Format:
  • Clear, concise PDF
  • Flexible where possible
  • Contact info for questions

  • 8. Contact Information


    Essential details:
    Direct contact:
  • Email (professional address)
  • Phone (with country code)
  • Website link

  • Management (if applicable):
  • Agent name and agency
  • Agent contact details
  • Booking email

  • Social media (optional):
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • Facebook (if professional page)

  • Response time indication:

    > *I respond to all booking inquiries within 24-48 hours.*


    Organizing Your EPK: Website Version


    Structure for Maximum Impact


    EPK landing page layout:

    ```

    ANNA SCHMIDT - ELECTRONIC PRESS KIT


    [Professional headshot photo]


    QUICK LINKS:

    [Download Complete EPK PDF] [Contact]


    BIOGRAPHY

    [Short bio visible, with expand/collapse for long bio]

    [Download Bio - PDF] [Download Bio - Word] [Download Bio - TXT]


    PHOTOS

    [Thumbnail gallery of professional photos]

    [Download All Photos] [Individual download buttons]


    AUDIO SAMPLES

    [Embedded audio player with 3-5 tracks]

    [Download Audio Files]


    VIDEO

    [Embedded video player or linked to YouTube/Vimeo]

    [Full performance links]


    REPERTOIRE

    [Organized list - expandable sections]

    [Download Repertoire PDF]


    PRESS & REVIEWS

    [Selected quotes with sources]

    [Links to full articles]


    CONTACT

    [Contact form and direct contact details]

    ```


    User Experience Best Practices


    Make it effortless:
  • Everything on one page (or organized tabs)
  • Preview content before downloading
  • Download buttons clearly labeled
  • All downloads in one "EPK Package" zip
  • Mobile-friendly layout
  • Fast loading (optimize images)

  • Professional presentation:
  • Clean, elegant design
  • Consistent branding
  • High-quality media display
  • Error-free text
  • Current content (dates visible)

  • Creating the Downloadable PDF EPK


    PDF Structure


    Cover page:
  • Your name
  • Instrument/voice type
  • Professional headshot
  • Contact information
  • Website URL

  • Page 2: Short bio + photo
  • Short bio (150 words)
  • Another professional photo
  • Social media handles

  • Page 3-4: Long bio
  • Comprehensive biography
  • Performance photo

  • Page 5: Repertoire
  • Organized repertoire list
  • Formatted for easy reading

  • Page 6: Reviews & Press
  • Selected quotes
  • Press photos
  • Media logos (publications)

  • Page 7: Photos
  • Thumbnail gallery
  • Note: "High-resolution photos available at website.com/epk"

  • Page 8: Audio/Video
  • Links to streaming audio
  • QR codes to videos
  • Note: "Full recordings available upon request"

  • Back page: Technical rider
  • Stage requirements
  • Contact info again

  • Design tips:
  • Professional template (Canva, Adobe InDesign)
  • Consistent fonts and colors
  • High-quality images
  • 8-12 pages total
  • File size: Under 5MB (for email)

  • File naming:

    `Schmidt-Anna-Violin-EPK-2025.pdf`


    Special Musician Discount


    As a fellow musician, I understand the importance of professional materials.


    Mention code MUSICIAN15 when you contact me for 15% off website packages that include professional EPK pages.

    Perfect integration of your press materials into your website, making booking agents' lives easier and increasing your booking potential.


    Distribution Strategy


    Where to Share Your EPK


    Include EPK link everywhere:
  • Email signature
  • Business cards (QR code)
  • Social media bios
  • Concert programs
  • Applications and submissions
  • Networking conversations

  • Proactive outreach:
  • Festivals you want to play
  • Venues in your target area
  • Chamber music organizers
  • Recording labels
  • Media contacts

  • Email template:

    ```

    Subject: Performance Inquiry - [Your Name], [Instrument]


    Dear [Contact Name],


    I am writing to inquire about performance opportunities for the 2025/2026 season.


    I am a [instrument/voice] based in [city], specializing in [your niche].


    My complete Electronic Press Kit is available at:

    www.yourname.com/epk


    I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I might contribute to your programming.


    Best regards,

    [Your Name]

    [Phone]

    [Email]

    ```


    Following Up


    If they download your EPK:
  • Follow up after 1 week
  • Reference specific program fit
  • Offer to send additional materials
  • Suggest phone call or meeting

  • Stay organized:
  • Track who you sent EPK to
  • Note follow-up dates
  • Record responses
  • Build relationships

  • Maintaining Your EPK


    Regular Updates


    Quarterly reviews:
  • Update bio with new achievements
  • Add recent performance photos
  • Replace older recordings with better ones
  • Update repertoire list
  • Add new press clippings

  • Annual refresh:
  • New professional headshots (every 2-3 years)
  • Review entire EPK for outdated info
  • Update design if needed
  • Ensure all links work

  • After major events:
  • Add significant new performances
  • Include major reviews immediately
  • Update featured video/audio
  • Announce on social media

  • Version Control


    Date your materials:
  • EPK updated: March 2025
  • Bio written: January 2025
  • Photos taken: December 2024

  • Keep archive:
  • Previous versions of bio
  • Older photos (still useful)
  • Past press materials
  • Track your evolution

  • Common EPK Mistakes to Avoid


    Mistake 1: Outdated Materials


    Problem: Last update was 2021
    Impact: Looks inactive, unprofessional
    Solution: Review and update quarterly minimum

    Mistake 2: Poor Quality Media


    Problem: Blurry photos, low-quality recordings
    Impact: Undermines professionalism
    Solution: Invest in professional materials—it's your career

    Mistake 3: Too Much Content


    Problem: 20 audio tracks, 50 photos, 10-page bio
    Impact: Overwhelming, nothing stands out
    Solution: Curate ruthlessly—best 3-5 of everything

    Mistake 4: Difficult Access


    Problem: Downloads broken, requires login, slow loading
    Impact: Frustration, abandoned review
    Solution: Test on multiple devices, make it effortless

    Mistake 5: No Clear CTA


    Problem: No obvious way to book you
    Impact: Interest without action
    Solution: Clear "Book Now" or contact button

    Let's Build Your Professional EPK


    What I Provide


    Complete EPK solution:
  • Dedicated EPK page on your website
  • Professional layout and design
  • Media integration (audio/video)
  • Downloadable materials organized
  • PDF EPK creation (optional add-on: €200)
  • Mobile-optimized presentation

  • Included in Professional Package (€1,650, or €1,402 with MUSICIAN15):
  • Full website with EPK section
  • Training on updating materials
  • 3 months support

  • Contact for free consultation:

    📧 info@amadeuswebdesign.com

    📱 +43 650 7964955


    Remember: Code MUSICIAN15 = 15% discount

    ---


    *Written for professional musicians who want to be taken seriously | December 2025*


    *Your EPK is your calling card. Make it professional, make it accessible, make it work for you 24/7.*


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