It has been almost a decade since I graduated with a masters degree in Jazz Studies from UART's. I remember my time in Philly being a whirlwind! I had never felt as challenged and pushed to the edge of my abilities until that year. As the semester was coming to a close I began to feel that fear of the unknown. My wife had already secured a full time graphic design position and although I was hoping to stay in Philly, I had a feeling that I would be leaving to find some sort of position closer to Cincinnati.
Graduation took place in May and as soon as I came back to the Cincy area I began searching for positions as a private instructor. How? I opened the phone book and began finding a multitude of music academy's. There were two that were looking to hire (keep in mind that means you are considered self employed and receive 1099's) Of the two, I was brought in as a sub and then transitioned into a regular. The beginnings were tough because I did not have a full schedule. It took some years to build to where I am now. Of course that made me nervous due to the fact that I was going to be married soon and my wife and I were already living in an apartment. In order to compensate, I began searching other teaching opportunities and had the privilege of venturing into local schools and community centers. Some of those positions have come and gone. Currently I am with one music academy, a professor at MSJ, and I teach online.
On top of the teaching I had met with a local vocalist that was searching for a guitarist to accompany him for a weekly church gig. Of course I accepted! I'm still there every week.
You may wondering, "How did you approach finding gigs?"
I have often been told and have talked with other musicians that have said you need to go to jam sessions and check out gigs of those you may want to perform with. I do agree that this is one of the ways to approach finding opportunities. I took a different approach. Not because I want to isolate myself, but because I felt the pressure of finding performing opportunities as soon as possible.
For me, just like finding a teaching position I had opened the phone book. I looked for any restaurant, cafe, art museum, etc. I made several phone calls and was rejected many times. Some of the venues I had contacted have had me back many times over the years. All of this because I have developed relationships with the owners.
Once I had the gigs then I would contact any musician I wanted to perform with. Over the years I have developed personal and musical bonds with certain individuals and contact those individuals first.
As my career continues to evolve so has my personal life. Being a Husband, Father, home owner, dog owner, etc. helps put many facets of life into perspective. Though the ups and downs persist, I often pause to consider where I have been and what lies ahead.
