Being out of school can be both helpful and difficult when it comes to maintaining an active performing schedule and teaching. There is more time to practice, that is if you have enough students to pay the bills. I think it is important to not teach too much, this can be very draining and result in diminished practice hours, or fatigue that prevents one from getting “good” practicing done.
The solo musician must treat their craft as a 40+ hour per week job. It doesnt stop once weve finished practicing or teaching for the day. We have to constantly be updating our websites, contacting local newspapers, schools, libraries, arts organizations, etc. I was always told that the squeeky wheel gets the grease, and I think this is definately true in the arts. It also helps to have a marketable product that people will enjoy! This all looks easy on paper, but to actually do it ; be both an artist and a manager/agent, takes an almost schizophrenic personality to get it all done.
My goal for the next month is to churn out an attractive EPK or “electronic press kit”, and distribute this info to at least 5 different places. Ill let you know how it turns out! my EPK will also be available on my website for download. Ok now that Ive said that I would do this, I guess I really have to!
Love,
Jon
