There are many levels of sideman work, from playing in a small-town cover band to backing up Sting, and lots in between. Regardless of the size of the gig, the skills needed are mostly the same. Musicians who master these skills are among the most sought-after working sidemen and women in the business.
Guitarist Gary Melvin offers some excellent pieces of advice that can apply to just about any sideman gig, big or small, and help you become an in-demand working musician.
Read the Guide to Being a Successful Sideman.

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Traveling can be a big part of a sideman gig. Drummer Elliot Jacobson prepares you for the road, from learning the music to living with your bandmates.
Once you’ve landed a job as a sideman, do you have what it takes to keep it? Bassist Trevor Coen shares 5 tips to become a reliable bandmate.
To make a living as a sideman, musicians must constantly learn new material. Here, veteran sideman and guitarist Matt Baldoni describes his method to the rest of us.
What is life like for a musician in the U.S. Army Band? Read stories about Josh’s life in the Army and ask questions in the comments.
SFC Joshua DiStefano has played piano with the U.S. Army for 14 years. He is currently stationed in Belgium as a pianist and arranger with the NATO band.
Learn where to sell your album online, what distribution means, how digital music distribution works, and the basic essentials required to release your album.
Learn how to make a basic production schedule, the basics of manufacturing, and some legalities you may need to sort out before releasing your music.
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