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How to make a concert program

You need four things: the running order, correct titles and names, a layout that fits your paper, and a way to print it. Here is the order that saves the most retyping.

1. Get the running order final first

Collect the pieces in a spreadsheet: performer, piece, composer, and (for planning) minutes. Add up the minutes; most audiences are happy with 60 to 75 minutes of music, with an intermission if it's longer. Fix the order before you design anything.

2. Check titles and names

• Use the title as printed in the music, then tidy it: "Minuet in G major, BWV Anh. 114".
• The composer's full name and years: Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750). Living composers: "b. 1970".
• Check the spelling of every performer's name with them or their family. This is the mistake people remember.

3. Choose the format

• Single sheet (letter or A4): short recitals, up to about 12 items. Can be printed front and back.
• Folded booklet (half-size pages): more room, a proper cover, notes and thanks. Pages come in fours: 4, 8, 12 or 16.
• Phone version and QR sign: no paper; families scan a code at the door.

4. Lay it out

Cover: presenter, title, subtitle, date and time, place. Inside: sections with headings (Program, Intermission, second half), then notes and thanks. Keep each piece and its performer together on one page.

5. Print a test copy

For a booklet, print one copy two-sided with flip on short edge, fold it, and check that page 2 faces page 3. Then print the rest. Full printing help.

6. Plan for last-minute changes

Someone will drop out or swap pieces. Keep the program editable until two days before, print a few extra copies, and keep a pen at the door for a late correction. In Program Fold you edit the list and download again; the booklet order is redone for you.

Examples you can open

Made with Program Fold from made-up programs. Each one is a real PDF: open it, print it, or copy the layout.