by Courtney Carlson, staff writer

Screaming fans rarely realize that their favorite bands don’t just appear on stage.

A lot of work goes into booking a gig, preparing the band, selling tickets, and advertising for shows.

Cal High senior Lizzie Krause began her career filling these roles in July 2011, when she became band manager of the Pinstripe Dropouts, a band of Granada High School students.

“My two best friends were in a band, and ready to get started with playing shows,” said Krause.

She helped get the band a kick start during the summer by pushing them to rehearse so they could play in shows.

Only months later, their fan base grew incredibly and they began to perform live.

Krause works hard to manage her friends’ bands, as well as promoting the Piedmont High punk band Emily’s Army.

“It’s awesome working with Lizzie, she’s like the glue that keeps us together,” said Pinstripe member, junior Mason McGeorge.

It’s true. Although the band has experienced many changes, such as rotating band members and different styles, Krause has stayed constant, acting as the foundation of the band.

“I’m thankful to have someone so motivated and productive to work for us,” said junior Dyllan Castia, the Pinstripe bass guitar player.

She’s worked hard to get the band gigs at local venues.

Their most recent show was on  March 30 at Walnut Creek’s Red House Studios.

It was a big hit, with new fans that were thrilled with the performance.

Besides setting up shows, Krause sells T-shirts, wristbands and other merchandise.

She’s also in charge of advertisement, which includes endorsing the band’s Facebook page and making posters for upcoming shows.

“Managing Pinstripe has taught me that there is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes,” said Krause.

Even though Krause does not earn a salary, when the band sells tickets or T-shirts, the revenue is divided between the band, Krause, and the band’s savings account.

“Lizzie is an awesome band manager, she puts her heart into what she does,” said junior Jeff Rosenberg, the Pinstripe drummer.

The band has really prospered because of  Krause, who has helped increase its fan base and arrange shows.

“I think it’s awesome that she’s working so hard to do what she loves,” said sophomore Jessica Ramsey, a close friend of Krause. ”It’s great that she’s following her dreams, especially in college.”

Krause plans to attend Berkeley City College in August, and she’s found an internship at a local punk venue, 924 Gilman. She’ll work as a sound tech, which entails checking equipment and making sure the sound system is set up correctly for the bands.

“There, I’ll get a more in-depth education about management,” said Krause. ”And hopefully then transition to work in producing music,”said Krause.

Krause has followed this dream for three years.

As a producer, she wants to help make solid albums with her bands, and help them recognize their talent.

She’s adamant about keeping from over-synthesizing her band’s  music.

“You can’t go too over the top,” said Krause, “or else it’ll sound unnatural when you go to see the band live.”

Lizzie wants to make sure that the talent of her bands will shine through, while shying away from the “pop” vibe.

“What I want,” said Krause. “is straight up, hard core punk.”

Her inspiration to work in the music industry has come from her favorite bands, Green Day, Sublime, and Gunpowder.