Build a Websta Profile as a Musician in the United States

What to include on your profile page

Your profile page is where potential clients learn who you are and how to work with you. Start with a clear description of what you do. Say whether you perform live music, teach lessons, compose, arrange, produce recordings, or offer another service. Name the instruments you play and the styles or genres you work in. If you play classical, jazz, rock, pop, folk, country, or something else, say so.

Add photos that show you in action. Include images of you performing, teaching, or at an instrument. These help people picture working with you. You can also add photos of your setup, your studio space if you teach from home, or any other relevant images.

List your services as separate items with descriptions. For example, if you teach guitar, you might have one service for beginner lessons, another for intermediate, and another for advanced. If you perform, list the types of performances you take on: weddings, corporate events, private parties, or church services. Add a service for any other work you do, like session recording or music production.

Set your own price for each service. You can offer hourly rates, flat fees per performance, or per-project rates depending on what makes sense for your work.

Booking and quote requests

Your profile includes a contact form and online booking. Decide which services you want clients to book directly and which ones you want to receive as quote requests. For lessons or coaching, direct booking works well if your schedule is regular and predictable. For performances and custom work, a quote request lets you discuss the details with the client before confirming.

When someone requests a quote, you receive their message and can respond with more information, availability, and your rate for that specific job. This is how you handle wedding performances, special arrangements, or any work that needs discussion first.

Language on your profile

Write your profile in English. Websta operates in English in the United States, so your profile will reach clients who search and browse in English. If you work with communities that speak other languages, mention that in your description - for example, 'I teach Spanish-language songs' or 'I perform at events with multilingual audiences' - but keep your profile itself in English.

How people find musicians on Websta

Websta has a marketplace where people nearby search for musicians and music services by location and type of work. They can browse your profile, see your services and photos, and send you a message or booking request. They can also post a task - for example, 'I need a guitarist for my wedding in October' - and you can make an offer on it.

People search for musicians in their area, so your location matters. Websta shows your profile to people near you who are looking for the service you offer. If you are willing to travel for performances, say that in your profile description.

Business setup as an independent musician

As an independent service provider in the United States, you need to handle your own business setup and taxes. The basics are these: decide whether you will work as a sole proprietor, form an LLC, or set up another business structure - this affects your taxes and liability, so check with a local accountant or your state's business office to decide what is right for you. You will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS or a Social Security Number to receive payments through Stripe. Keep records of all income and expenses for tax time.

You are responsible for setting your own rates, managing your schedule, and keeping clients happy. You handle all communication, scheduling, and follow-up. Websta connects you with clients but does not manage your business for you.

Check with your city or county about any licensing or permits required for music instruction, performances, or recording in your area. Some places have specific rules for home-based music lessons or outdoor performances. Some venues require proof of insurance or other permits. Laws vary by location, so confirm what applies to you.

What to write in your first hour

Start simple. Write a clear one- or two-sentence description of what you do. For example: 'I teach guitar lessons for beginners and intermediate students' or 'I perform as a jazz pianist for weddings and private events.' Add your instrument or instruments and the main genres or styles you work in.

Upload a recent photo of yourself with your instrument or performing. This takes just a few minutes and makes your profile real to potential clients.

List your main services. You do not need to get everything perfect right away - you can edit your profile later. Start with the services you offer most often and add more as you settle in.

Add a location. Websta uses this to show your profile to people nearby. If you teach from home, use that address. If you perform throughout a wider area, list the city where you are based.