http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/forum/gigs-038-other-income-sources The Community for Working Musicians en-US Sat, 11 Feb 2012 10:10:51 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/search.php http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/pircy-in-regards-to-the-group-blog-event-approaching#post-55 Mon, 13 Apr 2009 17:15:06 +0000 GuitarSdmn 55@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>Hey guys, hope you're stayin' busy. Half the time they talk like the sidewalks are getting rolled up here in Vegas (and elsewhere), but somehow some of us are still able to make it as freelancers thank God.</p> <p>I wanted to post my brief little take on the piracy issue, I just simply can't wait long enough for the blog event. So here goes:</p> <p>Of course I want all of us to get paid for our work, too many of us can't even demand what we're actually worth. I buy CDs, pay for concert tickets, and do anything else that a rabid music fan does to support the artists that I love. I go out of my way to insure that they see my money.</p> <p>As to the piracy concerns, I am adamantly opposed to it...</p> <p>.... when it comes to the average "civilian", or non-musician.</p> <p>As for myself and others I know in our line of work? I want to get anything I can get my hands on for free. Why? For several reasons, the main one being for learning and growing purposes. I myself am a collector, and I collect music and other media that I know I can grow from as a musician. But the biggest reason for me?</p> <p>I've earned it. I've been screwed over so many times by this business that the least I should get is some free music. It doesn't make it legal, but it makes it right. I'll keep my mouth shut about how fucked up this business is as long as the free tunes keep showing up.</p> <p>Okay... lemme hear it. </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/%e2%80%9ctip-jar%e2%80%9d-enhancement-technique-do-you-have-a-tip-to-share#post-1617 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 20:17:45 +0000 keyz88 1617@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>“Tip Jar” enhancement technique... do you have a tip to share?</p> <p>I'm not posting this article debating the pluses and minuses of using a tip jar... I'm simply seeing what (tip jar) tools work best for your particular type of venue... where is is traditionally allowed.</p> <p>Where tip jars are allowed, recommended or otherwise mandatory... does anybody have any tips (pun intended) on their ways of enhancing their revenue (via the “jar”)? </p> <p>I either utilize a small plastic brandy glass (available at the larger party warehouses) or a ($10.00 US) plastic wine carafe tip jar with a removable bottom (amazon.com ASIN: B003NY0WZI ) </p> <p>I just wanted to pass along a suggestion regarding tip jars and tip jar signs since I recently purchased a Neon BlackBoard from amazon.com to help potential “tipsters” toward my tip jar. </p> <p>Here's my amazon.com review on the ($7.50 US) UV Led Neon BlackBoard Stands on its Own Easel (ASIN: B005KSW3QG ) <a href="http://www.amazon.com/review/R1457LDBSW1D1D" rel="nofollow">http://www.amazon.com/review/R1457LDBSW1D1D</a> or you can read it below:</p> <p>PROS - Inexpensive, Battery powered (with optional AC power capability), Acrylic plastic writing surface is recessed to prevent (most) accidental scratches. Highlighter is included and is made to clip (on the included mounting clip) on back - pen is always at the ready. The easel leg props up the frame very nicely.</p> <p>CONS - None, but please note that the acrylic needs to be wiped off with a "wet" (not dry) cloth. It's not exactly the same as wiping off a whiteboard.</p> <p>I play solo piano (full-time) and needed a unique yet elegant (ie: non-cheap) way to designate my tip jar...on a grand piano. This exceeded my expectations. It paid for itself the first minute with the first tip I got. Talk about a ROI! It also affords anyone to effortlessly look through the clear acrylic (to whatever is visible behind it), so as not to block anyone view. Sure beats a tacky tip jar sign or a large 2' x 3' blacklight enhanced acrylic sign. When the BlackBoard is turned off, all that is visible to the black frame. When it is turned ON, the fluorescent highlighted bright yellow words (mine is "TIPs") can be easily seen from over 100 feet. Draws the tipping audience over like a moth to a flame!! </p> <p>I CAN'T BELIEVE I'm writing a review for something so inexpensive (hint: single digit price before taxes &amp; shipping)! The "Neon BlackBoard" has me that impressed. </p> <p>The fluorescent highlighter (included) was a very nice bright yellowish orange... one of the brightest (fluorescent highlighter) markers that I have owned for writing on these types of signs. And the frame holds the clear acrylic writing surface so that the acrylic is "recessed" on both sides, preventing any accidental scratches or smudges when packed tor transport. I was surprised that even in bright office light - this writifg on this puppy still stood out.</p> <p>I bought 2 initially since I didn't want to take a chance on the units failing out of the box. Both worked fine. Haven’t tried the 4.5v DC power option yet, but the 3 AA's last for a decent amount of time. NOTE: I experimented and tried NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) rechargeable batteries, but they seem to only last for about 2 hours before getting the signage dim. So Alciline (or DC power) might prove the best choices. At least this device gives you 2 power options.</p> <p>GREAT CONVERSATION PIECE for the bartender or working musician in your life that works on "tips" to supplement their wages. GIVE EM AS A GIFT!!! </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/back-to-work-after-yrs-away-with-health-probs#post-1183 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 17:11:21 +0000 MissusTurner 1183@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I am posting this because I am actually feeling pretty confused about how to get myself up and gigging full-time after losing years to a disability that I now have under control. I was wondering if anyone might have any tips- I don't know. </p> <p>I used to know most of the local cats, and had a handful of contacts. I feel kind of weird about the thought of tracking them down and "going crawling back" to the studio where I saw most of them most often. I don't know whether I should consider those people as burned bridges at this point, or what- would they give me the cold shoulder for having been away? I am really clueless about where to start making new contacts, too.</p> <p>I don't even know how to dress for auditions these days, or whether to make up some kind of resume, or just do business cards and flyers. I am trying to break into church organist gigs, synagogues, wedding bands and club/bar bands, even sessions, although I know how locked-up most session work is nowadays. Ship work is not out of the question.</p> <p>Not to slam teachers; but I am really trying to focus as close to 100% on FT performance as possible. I am willing to give private lessons pretty much as a last resort, and as little as possible. It's just not for me. I've done it before, and am not really cut out to teach.</p> <p>I am a pianist/organist, classical and prog rock. I am currently trying to learn some blues and jazz chops, to increase my skills and opportunities.</p> <p>Any advice for somebody who has been out of the game for way too long? </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/solo-pianist-trying-to-find-gigs#post-823 Thu, 21 Apr 2011 10:40:08 +0000 Redhead 823@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>Hi Dave,<br /> I've been enjoying this page a lot.</p> <p>I was wondering if you could give me some tips, or maybe even tell me what I've been doing wrong. I've been a pianist for years, but just in the last two years have been seriously trying to market myself as a solo pianist to play at events, weddings, background music, etc. </p> <p>Over the past two years I've built a website and put a listing on Gigmasters. I made photo postcards with my website address on it and did two mailings -- one in September and one in March -- each time to over 150 catering directors at hotels and country clubs, facility owners, wedding planners, and food and beverage managers.</p> <p>I've played at two charities at no charge, requesting my name and website to be in their program and on their Facebook page. I've played at two small bridal shows.</p> <p>But after two years of this, I'm discouraged that I'm getting very little momentum. I've had a few jobs (almost all of them through Gigmasters). </p> <p>I always follow up a job with a hand-written thank you note with a business card enclosed. I also always have cards and my photo postcards by the piano when I do play somewhere.</p> <p>Am I just being impatient? Am I doing something wrong? Should I quit doing the mailings, since nothing came of it either time? Or does it just take a while?</p> <p>Thanks for any input! </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/good-city-for-working-musician#post-85 Sun, 26 Apr 2009 19:49:30 +0000 Chris89 85@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I will be graduating from music school around winter of this year, and am I trying to figure out where a good place to live/work would be. I am looking for a city with a good music scene where I could get work, but not somewhere that is extremly hard to break into and already has a very established list of first call players/teachers (want to stay away from NY and LA for now). I am a drummer who is looking to gig around, possibly do some session work, teach, and things of that nature. Any suggestions? </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/10-restaurant-sales-for-4hr-gig#post-1083 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 16:08:33 +0000 bloozer 1083@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>Hi, I looked around in the forums for a bit but didn't come across an answer. Let me know what ya'll think:</p> <p>A new BBQ/blues restaurant just opened downtown and their hope is to have live music every evening during the dinner hours. On weekends the music starts after the dinner crowd thins out and the place becomes more of a bar-with-live-music joint. It's a nice, clean place in a popular, safe location for night time entertainment. It's the only BBQ place downtown, and one of the only places for live blues music in the city. The owner has a few other successful restaurants in the area and I am confident the place will be popular for both the dinner crowd and nightlife.</p> <p>I played there a last week, had a good time, and made a nice chunk of money, so naturally I'm looking forward to playing there again. Today, I was asked via email if I'd be interested in playing a weekly spot. They've offered me Thursdays 6-10pm for <strong>10% restaurant/bar sales with a $100/night guaranteed.</strong> However, in the three or so years I've been playing gigs, I've never played for a percentage -- only for a flat rate. By comparison, the show I did for them last week was for <strong>$200 for 3hrs</strong> (Friday night, starting at 10pm) and I made an additional ~$40 in tips/CD sales. This month I'm getting <strong>$100</strong> to open for a touring blues band (1hr set) and <strong>$375</strong> to perform at a blues festival with nationally known headliners (50min set).</p> <p>My questions:</p> <p>1) For restaurant gigs, does 10% seem fairly standard?</p> <p>2) What steps can I take to ensure I'm getting the agreed payment when it comes time to collect? That is, if the manager says they only made $500 that night so I'm only getting my minimum $100, how can I be sure he didn't actually make $1500, in which case he'd be shorting me? Not that this place seems sketchy or anything, but I've heard about this sort of thing happening a lot.</p> <p>3) 4 hours, even with a couple breaks, is a long time to play solo. My style includes a lot of shouting, moaning, stomping, etc and it'll take a lot of energy (plus a few repeat songs) to play the full 4hrs. Anyone have experience with a long set like this?</p> <p>(sorry for the long post, thanks for reading! advice/opinions much appreciated) </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/reading-versus-improv-on-keys#post-1078 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 14:58:51 +0000 Jana 1078@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I am a pianist and have interest in playing keyboard in the orchestra pit as part of a broadway show-type gig. i am an excellent sight reader and have subbed on keys for different performing groups, but all have been situations where the part was completely notated and all i had to do was play it. i'm not as confident in my improvisational skills. so my question is, is how much of the playing for a broadway show sort of thing is reading music and how much is improv? could i get away with being a good reader and not as good at improv or would i need to really work on my imrov skills to be able to even consider doing something like that? </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/will-mix-for-free#post-968 Sat, 28 May 2011 16:11:16 +0000 brianblanda 968@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>Hey guys,</p> <p>I'm currently a college student and already graduated from SAE institute in London, UK for audio engineering. I'm just trying to get a portfolio of some kind, and steady practice. So, I'll mix for free, just want to receive credit and permission to use it in my portfolio. You don't have to use my mix by any means, just would like to make a name for myself while in school. Thanks!</p> <p>Also, just discovered this site and love it. Already used the great recommendation to make an account on esession.com. </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/looking-to-get-connected-with-live-and-studio-musician-jobs-in-las-vegas#post-842 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 08:31:28 +0000 mhepner 842@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I am a multi genre keyboardist that can play live and studio and have professionally for 35 years. Anybody know the best way to get connected as I am moving to Las Vegas this year.</p> <p>Thank you,<br /> <a href="http://www.hepnermusic.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.hepnermusic.com</a> </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/gig-at-the-whiskey-a-go-go#post-802 Sat, 16 Apr 2011 03:41:52 +0000 brian 802@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I just wanted to share a bit of what's been going on with me lately. I just moved to LA a couple months ago and I've been doing a lot of the things that are talked about on the site here. Trying to network, gig, find other keyboardists and musicians, music directors, etc. It's been hard but I've had a bit of success so far. I've met some really cool people and I'm starting to get some cool opportunities. Tomorrow (saturday night) I have a gig with a band I've been playing in at The Whiskey a Go Go here in LA. It's a famous place on the west coast and a good step up for me in terms of experience. I'm excited and very glad to be apart of this.</p> <p>Anybody here play places like the Whiskey or the Roxy or places like that? What were your experiences? </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/how-do-i-start-performing-at-concerts#post-793 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 12:10:09 +0000 Rob 793@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I have a 7 piece jazz combo playing tenor sax in it and up until now, all my combo has done are gigs we've been hired for like parties, bars, etc. We would like to perform a concert since we've built a large fan base and are some of the top call guys in our area and our area has a thriving music scene so I'm pretty sure people would come to see us. The problem is, none of us know how to go about getting a concert and selling tickets and all that, since like I said we've always been working for someone else. So my question how would we start our very own concert? </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/how-many-studio-recodring-gigs-can-i-expect-to-get#post-782 Thu, 24 Mar 2011 20:31:52 +0000 AspiringProTrombone 782@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I want to work in studio recording for movie sound tracks, jingles, TV, backing other artist, etc. I've just graduated from college, but say by the time I'm 30 and will have had a good 8 years of playing professionally behind me and will have gathered a good amount of respect in my area, how many session recording gigs can I expect to get annually playing trombone? Also, I minored in french horn performance, for session recording and musical theatre pit orchestra gigs can I play both 'bone and horn and get doubling fees or is that only a woodwind and percussion thing? </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/do-you-have-to-be-religious-to-take-a-church-gig#post-727 Sun, 27 Feb 2011 11:53:50 +0000 David J. Hahn 727@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>Is it unethical to take a church job if you don't believe in what the church is preaching?</p> <p>This is a question I thought a lot about before I took my church job, and I'm not sure I've ever come up with a good answer. I'd like to hear other people's thoughts. </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/show-bandlive-entertainment-companies#post-729 Sun, 27 Feb 2011 23:38:30 +0000 brian 729@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>So I've been researching and becoming more aware of these kinds of groups and I'm not exactly sure one would call them. But I just wanted to get some people talking about this to better understand it.</p> <p>There are groups that I guess you would call Show Bands or Orchestras (not traditional symphonic orchestras), or whatever. They're like cruise ship music groups but not involved with cruise ships. They have a ton of musicians on staff and put together all kinds of different band and ensemble arrangements and do all manner of weddings and corporate events etc. Has anyone had any experience with these types of companies (other than cruise ship gigs)? I've been interested in cruise ship gigs before but I think I'd be more interested in these kinds of companies because they're on the mainland. </p> <p>Here's some major ones I've found so far in the LA area. They do major events like celebrity's parties and such.<br /> <a href="http://www.westcoastmusic.com/html/index.php" rel="nofollow">http://www.westcoastmusic.com/html/index.php</a><br /> <a href="http://www.waynefoster.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.waynefoster.com/</a></p> <p>This one seems slightly more run-of-the-mill.<br /> <a href="http://www.themusicconnectionorchestra.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.themusicconnectionorchestra.com/</a></p> <p>Would you say that these companies are just like the ones on cruise ships which are talked about extensively in this blog already?</p> <p>I'm going to try to apply to these places, but I wonder if I'm even of high enough caliber to compete.</p> <p>Anybody know of any others like these in their city? </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/subbing#post-748 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 21:08:32 +0000 brian 748@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>David gave some awesome links recently about John Miller who talks some about subbing as a way into getting your own gigs. I'm just wondering if anybody out there has had some experience getting in touch with players of their instrument and asking to sub. What was your experience like?</p> <p><a href="http://www.musicianwages.com/the-working-musician/career-advice-for-musicians-from-broadway-contractor-john-miller/" rel="nofollow">http://www.musicianwages.com/the-working-musician/career-advice-for-musicians-from-broadway-contractor-john-miller/</a> </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/get-new-gigs#post-646 Fri, 29 Oct 2010 01:53:19 +0000 Cameron21 646@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>Hey Guys</p> <p>Well if artists, musicians, bands or performers are looking to get some great gigs then you can register yourself with <a href="http://www.entertainoz.com.au/" rel="nofollow">http://www.entertainoz.com.au/</a>. I was working with a couple of guys who registered them selves with this website and it was a real help. Ya initially it was a little slow, but now things have really picked up speed. So thought of spreading the word. Its a great booking agency in Australia and have a great community for artists who not only come together for the music and gigs, but also end up making great friends..</p> <p>Cheers</p> <p>Cameron </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/direction#post-614 Sat, 02 Oct 2010 17:01:52 +0000 Gordon 614@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I play very well by ear, and have trouble reading music. This puts me in a disposition. However, the music I write (not literally) is heard through dreams, or just inspiring moments. There is no shortage of music to record- which I have done for almost all of the songs. </p> <p>However, a lot of these jobs and gigs require the ability to read and arrange. Some things I have been interested in, are jingles, songs for movies, music for other artists, and anything else I may be able to do.</p> <p>What could I do with this unique ability? Where can I take this? Ideally I would love to make a living writing music. Though as a student at North Park, my major is in Youth Ministry and non profit management, I would like to go far with the music. So many ideas, and inspiring times, that I really wish for my own orchestra or group. </p> <p>What are yalls suggestions? What sectors would I thrive in? What can I DO TO thrive?</p> <p>Thanks- Gordon </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/schoolschurches-looking-for-accompanists#post-487 Sat, 10 Jul 2010 10:30:07 +0000 adecipulo 487@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>Hi, I&#39;m new to the site, and I&#39;m finding it very helpful just reading everyone&#39;s comments and feedback. </p> <p>A question for you Dave or anyone who might be able to help. Do you know where/or how to find schools or churches that are looking to hire accompanists? Is there a listing like Craigslist or is the only way going to Google and finding a list of schools/churches and emailing the music director? </p> <p>I currently work in the city as an accompanist, but finding the work I&#39;m doing, not quite stable. (i.e. I accompany for a few vocal coaches who have a small studio and sub for a few vocal classes at BDC and HB studios). Other than that, income is not always guaranteed. Can you somehow point me in the right direction?! </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/surpriseing-6-figure-jobs#post-546 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 20:27:05 +0000 Ron 546@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I came across this on Forbes&#39; surprising 6-figure jobs. Music directors in the top 10% making $107,280 and up. </p> <p><a href="http://www.forbes.com/2009/05/28/surprising-six-figure-careers-leadership-jobs_slide_13.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.forbes.com/2009/05/28/surprising-six-figure-careers-leadership-jobs_slide_13.html</a></p> <p>I was surprised to see it that high. So how much does one really have to work as a musician to make it happen? Are those making 100 grand and up composing all day and conducting concerts all night? Is that salary realistically attainable as a regular music director and composer or are those just the John Williams and Gustavo Dudamels of the world? </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/funeral-home-musician#post-506 Tue, 20 Jul 2010 20:57:29 +0000 jonwil78 506@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>As morbid as it sounds I&#39;m looking into possibly contacting local funeral homes to see if they need a musician for memorial services. Does anyone have any experience in this? I&#39;m sure much of the work would come in at last minute and I would need to be prepared for a rate, etc. Any advise is appreciated.</p> <p>Thank you! </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/legal-issues-with-pop-arrangements#post-473 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 23:49:10 +0000 Ron 473@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>Hello!<br /> Does anyone know if I would come across any legal issues if I were to arrange the latest pop tunes for a group and get money for it? I mean people do it all the time right? If issues could potentially arise, how can they be avoided? </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/music-director-internships#post-457 Sat, 12 Jun 2010 13:40:12 +0000 schaker10 457@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I&#39;m currently a college music student looking for theater companies that have some kind of internship program for musicians/MDs. Im a trained keyboardist and love being part of the theater. I&#39;ve played in numerous pits and done a little music directing at college and my small community theater group. I think an internship would be a great way to start learning the business. Anyone know of any bigger theater companies that have a good reputation and offer such a program? I want to learn about music directing, being a pit pianist and even the technical software/hardware used to program keyboards and make the pit sound great. </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/choral-music#post-453 Wed, 09 Jun 2010 03:16:33 +0000 erwin96 453@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>Hi Jonwil78. Really This is very wonderful site about the music.<br /> The pioneering electro-punk project led by American producer James Murphy returns with a third album seeped in splurging synths and frantic beats. Opener Dance Yourself Clean is a thrilling highlight, all ecstatic bleeps and irresistible rhythms, while Pow Pow is a piece of hypnotic genius. The haunting piano of Somebody&#39;s Calling Me is also compelling. The formula is less effective though when veering towards the Bowie-lite Drunk Girls and the leaden All I Want. However, this is an energetic and excellent return to the fray. Well worth a listen. </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/getting-a-part-time-job-at-a-local-piano-store#post-400 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 12:04:55 +0000 brian 400@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>I&#39;m trying to get a part time job at a local piano store that is well known in this area and is now the only one left as the other one went out of business. I&#39;ve talked with the owner several times he seems very eager to hire me to help out in the sheet music dept. But mostly he wants me to work in the electronic keyboard and pro audio section which doesn&#39;t do much business right now because they don&#39;t have anybody who knows all that stuff very well. But things are slow right now and the summer is coming which is a slower time and we&#39;re just waiting till it would be more feasible to hire a new employee. </p> <p>I really want to get a job there. I&#39;m a keyboard nut and would love it there. How crazy would it sound if I were to offer to him to work for free at first like one day a week for a couple hours just to start getting some training and possibly build up the pro audio section of the store and thereby create a job for myself where I would get paid? Does that sound like something a store owner would be open to? </p> http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/topic/summer-stock#post-382 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 23:25:06 +0000 Emiemipoemi 382@http://www.musicianwages.com/forums/ <p>Does anyone have any advice on how a music director can find summer stock jobs? I&#39;ve been searching on BackstageJobs.com and Playbill.com but so far not much as popped up. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! </p>