Use these guidelines and suggested press release copy to get the word out about your performance as a part of the 2009 ITA "International Trombone Week."

Note: If you have a photo of your group, use it. Send along with the suggested release copy. Be sure to identify the name of the group and who is in the picture, as well as when you are performing. Attach that to the photo(s). This is in addition to the main press release. This will increase exposure and get better newspaper placements and usage. Some newspapers accept digital photos — check with your local press contacts.

Timing: It is suggested that performers/groups send this information to their local press as soon as possible. Follow up if possible with a phone call.

Maximize your press: Also send a release to your local arts/music/features editors and follow with a call to suggest a feature on your group and ITA's International Trombone Week. If you do this, be sure to use suggested ITA/ITW talking points. Save your clips—scan and send copies to ITA for archive purposes.

Press resources: You can get help with lists of press people from your college's press or information/pr director. You can usually obtain lists of local press contacts in your area by doing a Google search and insert these search terms [your local city or area+newspapers].

Your local library can help with this as well. Also, contact the PR person for a high profile musical/arts group in your area and ask for some help in the form of contacts to send concert listings info. Since this information will be helpful for future performance promotions, you may want to create a database and save.

ITA support: Henry Kavett, ITA member, media professional and bass trombonist, prepared this information. He can answer questions and provide basic PR help via email. Contact him if needed: kavett@aol.com