Concert Ideas is the largest and most succesful producer of college entertainment in the country. With over 65 years of combined experience, Concert Ideas consistently produces more collegiate music and comedy events than all of our competition combined. Regardless of your budget, location, or needs, Concert Ideas can help your school produce the event you want. Call us to find out why more schools, bands, agents, and managers contact Concert Ideas than any other company.
Believe it or not, spring avails are pouring in! Check out our up-to-date spring avails in the search page or on our facebook and twitter, and give us a call to discuss your event. Make sure you look out for our emails each week for news, highlights, and avails. Send an email to info@concertideas.com to subscribe to the Concert Ideas newsletter.
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There are many steps involved in producing a major concert event. And those of you coming into a programming position will undoubtedly be at different experience levels. With these ideas in mind, Concert Ideas has prepared this section of materials to help you along every step of the way through the event planning process.

Feel free to print off and read whatever you like. If you think there is an area we should focus more on in the future, just let us know.


Concert Ideas' Event Planning Guide
The big, 50-page guide to all you need to know

Comprehensive Event Checklist
Step-by-step, make sure nothing is left out!

Example Of A Student Volunteer Contract
An idea for volunteer retention throughout show day.

How To Do Online Ticketing
A great way to make it easy for the public to go to your show.

Effective Marketing
Ideas and resources for promoting your show.

Better Communication
How schools and agents can better talk to each other.

Example Of A Day Of Show Schedule
Good for carrying around on show day

Example Of A School Performance Rider
Often used in addition to the act’s contract.

NACA’s Top 13 Challenges for Schools Planning Major Events
A bakers dozen of common event planning challenges.

Industry Profile: Harris Goldberg
From CelebrityAccess MediaWire, July 2011
Who is Concert Ideas?

Concert Ideas is the nation's largest and most experienced college talent buyer/booking agency. For over twenty-five years we have been securing music and comedy talent for schools from Alaska to Maine and everywhere in between. We have booked concerts at over 500 colleges and universities across the nation, and each year we are able to assist more and more schools.

When choosing the right agency for you, take your time and ask questions that are important to you. Here is some information on Concert Ideas and what we offer to help you in your decision making process.


The Best List of Acts

  • Concert ideas has the most complete, accurate, and up-to-date availability list in the business, with the latest information on almost 1100 artists, from Comedy to Rock to Rap to Jazz. Our computerized database is updated daily.
  • Nationwide Buying Power

  • Many agencies are regional. Concert Ideas is a national company. In the past year we've Successfully booked over 400 shows across the country.
  • No Conflict of Interest

  • We are not a talent agency or promoter. We represent you. Our job is to save you money and negotiate on your behalf; not to sell you anything.
  • Advance Warning

  • Our inside knowledge can help you avoid booking the wrong act and give you information ahead of time regarding any act on tour.
  • No Hidden Agenda

  • Since we do not promote or represent acts, our only goal is to help you get the act you want, when you want it, for the best price possible.
  • Service and Support

  • 24 Hours A Day, 7 Days A Week. We can be reached anytime, anyplace, anywhere.
  • Toll Free Telephone Number 1-800-836-2000

    Best Reputation and The Most Personal Touch

  • Our best recommendations come from the schools we work with. We can provide names and number of schools upon your request.
  • Most Experienced Track Record

  • For 25 years Concert Ideas has consistently booked more acts at more schools than any of our competition.
  • Qualified and Knowledgeable People

  • Concert Ideas has an experienced staff of professionals ready to meet your specific needs, no matter where you are, what size school you attend, or what your budget is. We are here to help you.
  • Testimonials

    Carthage College:

    "Over the past ten years we have been working with Concert Ideas to assist us in the process of acquiring mainstream artists for our campus events. In those ten years, we have had the opportunity to work with such artists as Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds, John Mayer, Bob Dylan, The Fray, Dave Chappelle, Seth Meyers, Darrel Hammond, etc...  Concert Ideas staff has been instrumental in acquiring these artists.  Their staff are consummate professionals as they are both resourceful and knowledgeable in the entertainment industry.  Their ability to balance the needs of the institution and the talent are beyond reproach.  Our confidence and trust in Concert Ideas has continued to grow because of their abilities and reliability.  We enthusiastically recommend Concert Ideas and their services to any institution desiring to bring top tier talent to their events."


    Rowan University:

    "I have worked with Concert Ideas over the last few years. Adam Tobey has been such a tremendous help with planning and executing our events, whether it be our big comedian or our annual spring concert with three major musical acts. Adam and the Concert Ideas team are very professional and always willing to help. I sometimes feel that I am bothering them with so many questions/phone calls, however they always make time for the Students and myself. I will continue to work with Concert Ideas on all of my major programs."


    Valparaiso University:

    "I have been working with Concert Ideas for over 30 years and have thoroughly enjoyed the relationship. They are very professional and always negotiate the best deals possible. I have worked at 2 schools and in both occasions I have continued to use Concert Ideas. I find them to be very thorough and always looking out for us throughout the entire process. Adam is the most professional agent I have ever worked with and is always available when we need him. Even if that means contacting him on the day of the show at home. I have dealt with many direct and middle agents throughout the years and Concert Ideas is by far the best one I have done business with."


    Elon University:

    "Working with Adam Tobey and Concert Ideas has been a true pleasure. Advising a very active programming board, we interact with a lot of outside vendors and I can say, without a doubt, Adam is one of, if not the, best. He is incredibly responsive to any and all requests and has the knowledge to help students navigate the sometimes treacherous waters of negotiating contracts and managing the egos of big name artists and their staff. He excels at managing the needs of both the university and the artist and is unfailingly honest, which is a necessary attribute. I would recommend him without reservation for any school."


    University of Louisiana at Monroe:

    "Concert Ideas has been great to work with. They go above and beyond in helping you prepare for your event and making sure that everything runs smoothly. I have worked with them for the past three years and every concert has been better than the last. Concert Ideas will set you up to succeed and be  there to work through any problems so that you do succeed.  They care that my concert is a success just as much as I do.  I would recommend Concert Ideas to anyone."


    SUNY Delhi:

    "I have been working closely with Concert Ideas in my role as Director of Student Activities at the State University of New York at Delhi since 1992. Obviously, I have been well satisfied with the level of service we always receive to have had such a long standing business relationship. I can highly recommend Concert Ideas as a totally professional agency that is well equipped to deal with any concert related issues that may arise. They have always provided excellent service for SUNY Delhi no matter what the event, large or small."


    Missouri Western State University:

    "The service provided by Concert Ideas goes beyond artist negotiations and contracts, they are there for the school months before the concert and after to make sure the institution has a successful event.  Through the entire process Adam, Amanda, and everyone else at Concert Ideas are just a phone call or email away.  Or what usually happens, is they call/email US to see how they can help.  And this service is year-round, not just at "concert time".  Don Willis, Assistant Dean of Student Services, Missouri Western State University."


    Florida Gulf Coast University:

    "The concert business can be a difficult world for a University to mange. I am very thankful to have Concert Ideas on my side. There staff is professional, timely, and gives my students the attention they need. I’ve personally have worked with Concert Ideas for over 8 years booking shows. No matter what University I may work at Concert Ideas will always be my first choice for a middle agent."


    University of Rochester:

    "The University of Rochester has successfully worked with Concert Ideas for over three decades. I have personally worked with this company led by Harris Goldberg for over twenty years. Harris has assembled a top notch team which is 100% customer service oriented. We have had many exciting concerts over the years and they help with any detail with which we need. Harris himself will make himself available at any hour to make sure our needs are met. I highly recommend this reputable company."


    University of North Florida:

    "The University of North Florida and Concert Ideas has had a long standing professional relationship. We at UNF have come to rely on the staff of Concert Ideas for their professionalism and dependability. As a promoter, what I look for most in my Agent is someone who has my best interests in mind as well as is willing to give me an honest assessment of which ever artist I am pursing. Adam Tobey and the rest of the staff of Concert Ideas have not just become an agent for us, he has proven to be a trusted advisor of what will make us successful. I highly recommend Adam and the Concert Ideas staff for your middle agent needs."


    University of Georgia:

    "I have been working with Concert Ideas for the past 4 years and have always been extremely pleased with their services. No matter the size of the artist we are bringing, they put the same care and attention into each job. Working with CI definitely makes my life easier when I am juggling a variety of events on top of the concert we are planning; it's a relief to know that they are only a phone call away and able to help with any issue or answer any question that might arise."


    SUNY Geneseo:

    "When it comes to planning concerts and major events for campus, Concert Ideas is a wonderful resource.  Over the years, they've provided us with support and insight into the music industry that has been invaluable and really helped us through the process of selecting talent that's right for our campus.  They've helped us through tough times like low ticket sales and congratulated us during great times like sold-out shows.  It's nice to work with an agency that's not only knowledgeable but listens to the you, the customer, and what you need from them."


    University of Tennessee at Knoxville:

    "Adam served as our middling agent on the planning of our Homecoming Concert 2010 featuring the artist Big Boi. His insights, training, and support have been invaluable and allowed  for a successful program here at the University of Tennessee – Knoxville. In all of my dealings with Adam and the Concert Ideas staff, they have been well prepared, professional and helpful. On the day of the event, one of Adam’s associate came to Knoxville to make sure that our event went well and to serve as a liaison between the school and the artist representatives.   It has been a pleasure to work with Adam and I highly recommend him for future events that take place on college campuses."


    University of Connecticut:

    "The University of Connecticut has worked with Concert Ideas, of Woodstock, New York for all our major concerts for over 20 years. We have found the staff at Concert Ideas to be extremely professional, knowledgeable, and ethical. As the Advisor to the Concert Committee I have always appreciated their access to them by my students. They can call them anytime, answer any questions, research any act, and they do so in an open and friendly manner. I also appreciate their honesty. They are always upfront on things, don’t pull any punches, and always look out for our best interest. In my opinion Concert Ideas is a top notch, highly professional middle agent and we are very pleased to continue to work with such a dedicated group of agents."


    East Tennessee State University:

    "The entire Concert Ideas team, especially Adam Tobey, have always been available by phone at any hour of the day should a need or question arise and have always been able to provide professional, prompt, and efficient help. There has never been a time that I was unable to reach someone with Concert Ideas or to have a question answered. There have even been a few times when we have requested Adam to attend a particularly large event, and the support he provided on campus was top notch. The team at Concert Ideas has always been able to help us secure a top national act from our students’ rankings. We have never had to stray from our students’ preference list and have always been pleased with not only the quality of the performances booked, but with the contracting support, resources and expertise that Adam and the Concert Ideas team have offered us, including promotional materials and other additional general concert planning tools. Finally, they have been crucial in helping us research acts before booking and assisting us in getting a feel for how the day of a show will run based on their past experiences with the artists and their management. This knowledge has helped us avoid many potential problems before they arose."


    Rutgers University:

    "I just wanted to say THANK YOU for all of your hard work and assistance with our large events this year.  You have always remained supportive of Rutgers University's unique needs and extremely helpful in working with our students in thinking through the logistical details of our large complex events.  I appreciate the care and attention to detail that you provide in helping us to pick performers that build excitement at our university while being mindful of what entertainment works at RU.   I am also appreciative of the efforts you take to assist in the continuing education of our programming board student members.  I will encourage other Universities to contact your agency so that they can have the same positive and enjoyable experience that we have continued to have.  Thanks for your patience, professionalism, and constant support through all of the uncertainties of major event planning. I look forward to working with you in the future."


    University of North Florida:

    "The University of North Florida and Concert Ideas has had a long standing professional relationship. We at UNF have come to rely on the staff of Concert Ideas for their professionalism and dependability. As a promoter, what I look for most in my Agent is someone who has my best interests in mind as well as is willing to give me an honest assessment of which ever artist I am pursuing. Adam Tobey and the rest of the staff of Concert Ideas has not just become an agent for us, he has proven to be a trusted advisor of what will make us successful. I highly recommend Adam and the Concert Ideas staff for your middle agent needs."


    Ohio Wesleyan University:

    "I think the best part about working with Concert Ideas is the peace of mind because: 1) You continue to work with us from the time we start looking at acts until after the last tech truck leaves on show night, 2) Either in person or by phone, I know you are always available to troubleshoot any issue that may arise and 3) I feel like there is not a problem you and the rest of the staff have not already faced. We are always able to put out the best show possible.  Your tips and tricks have helped us boost ticket sales and your knowledge of artists and their acts is top-rate."


    Western New England College:

    "Concert Ideas is our partner in producing all of our larger comedy shows and music concerts. They help with all of the detail work that goes into producing shows: from contracting, to hospitality, to productions, the staff helps you make sure your show goes off without a hitch.  They are fantastic to work with and are very professional."


    Skidmore College:

    "We've been working with Concert Ideas for a few years now and have had nothing but good experiences. Taylor has developed a great rapport with our students and is able to help them from the brainstorming stage straight up to show night."


    Hobart & William Smith Colleges:

    "...delivered lightning-quick replies to my questions, helped me brainstorm solutions to issues that inevitably popped up, and often came ON-SITE to assist with major productions.  In my book, that is the definition of excellent customer service. If you want to ensure your next concert or major event runs smoothly, call Concert Ideas!  You'll thank yourself."


    University of Alaska:

    "Concert Ideas opens doors for us, they are the reason we are able to get great artists to Alaska. A concert in the Last Frontier isn't so scary with Dave Stevens and the Concert Ideas crew!"


    University of Southern California:

    "Being new to the presenting events on campus, Concert Ideas has been a great partner for me in securing top-notch entertainment within our budget and venue restrictions. Their expertise, insights and industry connections are invaluable!  Working with their staff, I feel confident that they will secure a great act for a great price."


    Central Michigan University:

    "Working with Dave Stevens and the rest of the Concert Ideas staff is incredibly helpful. Not only do they go the distance to help produce a top notch event, they are realistic and honest at helping us choose the right artists for our campus!"


    Minnesota State University Mankato:

    "Taylor at Concert Ideas has provided me and my students with strong support and sound advice in our planning and execution of concerts and speakers at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I value his assistance and perspective when reviewing potential performers, negotiating contracts, and conducting any necessary follow-ups with agencies. When I contact Taylor I receive professional, common sense and efficient help that helps each event go smoothly for our team."


    Saint Joseph’s University:

    "Thank you Concert Ideas! From October-April, you make one of my largest events during the year manageable! I feel supported, encouraged and I am thankful that you are always willing and able to answer even the smallest of questions. You are without a doubt one of the top businesses that I work with!"


    University of West Florida:

    "Your knowledge of the industry, negotiating skills and quick responses to all my questions made the entire process a fun trip. I'm looking forward to doing it again soon."


    Whitman College:

    "Our college has worked with Concert Ideas for years and we are never disappointed with the outcome. Their assistance in identifying and booking successful events for our campus is invaluable, and the quality of service and knowledge of the industry provided by the staff is unbeatable!"


    Georgia State University:

    "Adam's specialized experience in working with colleges made the entire concert hosting process not only possible, but plausible.  He handled all of the red-tape and unique issues that arise from college campus situations accordingly, and for that we are eternally grateful.  Not only was he with us every step of the way, but he actually anticipated problems and initiated their solutions.  There was never a moment that we couldn't get in touch with Adam, which was a key factor to the success of our concert.  Using Adam and Concert Ideas is definitely a step in the right direction toward throwing a great concert at your university."


    Virginia Tech University:

    "Concert Ideas is second to none! The care, attention, support, and professionalism they provide for each show from beginning to end is always outstanding. It's the reason why Concert Ideas is my first and only choice."


    Creighton University:

    "Concert Ideas, especially Dave Stevens, is incredible to work with.  From step 1 to step 101, they are with you all the way.  Their expertise is unmatchable; any question I have before, during and after a concert is taken care of in a professional, timely and thoughtful manner.  They are all about making the experience the best it can be for the student leaders, the students in attendance and the performer. We couldn't do it without Dave!"


    Florida Atlantic University:

    "I am so grateful for my experiences working with the staff of Concert Ideas. Everyone is knowledgeable, helpful and willing to go the extra mile to insure every one of my shows is a success. Working with Concert Ideas is like working with a trusted friend!"


    University of Maryland – Baltimore County:

    "Concert Ideas has helped to spoil our students!  We have hosted some of the biggest acts at their peak, and it has been through the hard work and creativity of Mike Russo.  We talk dates, routing, dollars, and ideas at length!  With Concert Ideas, I never feel like I am being "sold" something. They present options, give feedback, and ultimately work with us to come up with the best show possible.  As a state institution, our contract and payment process is cumbersome and they work to get in front of potential problems.  Our shows with Concert Ideas have been very successful and make me feel like I have a real advocate and partner throughout the process."


    Concert Ideas and UniversityTickets have teamed up to provide colleges and universities with online ticketing services, complete with social media integration, coupon codes, print-at-home and mobile tickets and other tools..

    Imagine it... Offering your customers the ability to print their own tickets, or mobile tickets straight to their smartphone, eliminating paper completely! Our portal will help promote your event with Facebook and Twitter integration, QR code generation, auto-creation of Facebook events and more.

    Through our partnership, you'll have your own ticketing website via a special Concert Ideas ticketing portal - reserved seating or general admission, 50 people or 50,000, we'll revolutionize and modernize your sales process... No more tabling in your student center!

    Contact us to learn more, or put your event on sale today!

    * some fees may apply depending on the nature of your seating needs. Per ticket service fees do apply.

    Contacting Our Offices

    Concert Ideas has 2 offices: the main is located in Woodstock, NY and we have a satellite office located in Indianapolis, IN.

    The main and Indiana offices deal with concerts and comedy. Each agent reps a specific grouping of schools. If you are new to us and unsure of who you should talk to, just give us a call at 800-836-2000 to find out.

    We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    Main Office

    73 Ratterman Rd.,

    Woodstock, NY 12498


    tel: 800.836.2000

    tel: 845.679.6000

    fax: 845.679.9022


    Harris Goldberg: harrisg@concertideas.com

    Adam Tobey: adam@concertideas.com

    Adam Taylor: taylor@concertideas.com

    Brett Pasternak: brett@concertideas.com

    Sarah Beinstein: sarah@concertideas.com

    Indianapolis Office

    4940 Haynes Avenue

    Indianapolis, IN 46250


    tel: 888.832.0808

    tel: 317.578.5351


    Dave Stevens: dave@concertideas.com

    Help Us Help You

    Doing research for an upcoming concert? Know what you want but need help making your dream show into reality? Fill out the form below to get in touch with us. Once we receive your email, we will contact you within 24 hours to discuss your specific needs.

    Name *
    Email address *
    Phone number *
    College *
    Expected Concert Date(s)
    Type of Venue
    Size of Venue
    Artist Budget
    Desired Artist(s)
    Email address: