Beyond the Frets
THINGS THAT DON’T TAKE TALENT
Don’t make stupid mistakes…
I don’t care how talented you are, it truly only goes so far when you have professional considerations like writing emails, booking and coordinating musicians for a high-paying event, knowing how to deal with problems efficiently (like what happens when a venue doesn’t provide sound like they said they would?), and much more. The following list is just the tip of the iceberg on things that DON’T. TAKE. TALENT. And will surely save your ass someday, because trust me, I’ve MADE the stupid mistakes and am here to make sure you don’t do the same. Now read the list, write down your own, and start being the professional musician that you’re all capable of.
THINGS THAT DON’T TAKE TALENT:
Responding to emails/texts/calls
Upkeep of instruments
Emergency gig bag
Paying musicians upfront when you can
Coordinating rehearsal schedules
Coordinating your own schedule
Thinking ahead
Bringing the right tools for the job
Keeping records of your income and expenses
Understanding your taxes
Doing paperwork accurately and on time
Showing respect
Writing professionally
Going to support the local scene
Having pencils and pens everywhere
Making sure you have a damn pick
Showing up EARLY is showing up on time
Speaking clearly and audibly
Knowing when to listen
Knowing when to speak
Saying YES
Saying NO
Dressing appropriately
Remembering why you make music!
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