Josephus, Part Deux
Moving to a new city is tricky but filled with opportunity of you play your cards right.
Suggestions, in no particular order, include:
o Find out who the working musicians are in the new community and try to hear and meet as many as you can without being a nuisance.
o Consider calling a few of the above and ask for a lesson as a way to a) get a fresh take on the ongoing work that you're doing while b) giving them the opportunity to be introduced to both you and your work in a familiar, comfortable, environment.
o There's nothing wrong with taking a job if the salary (and benefits) warrant it. Time management is crucial, however. Protect your practice time. You haven't come this far to sell men's shoes at Kohls. Alternatives for health insurance are easily researched. Do it.
o Create a simple website (you control, and will constantly update, content) that includes a short biography and longer CV. Say a few things about your teaching philosophy and add lots of photos. Create business cards and a simple flyer detailing your teaching studio and make sure that your webpage is clearly and easily found on them. Bring this to every school, community bulletin board, music store, and church that you can find. Private music instruction is one of the few “growth areas” in our industry. The “No Child Left Behind” initiative has impacted music education in California public schools to the tune of almost 900,000 kids lost lat year alone (one of the “pleasures” of being a dean is reading reports like that). You will be doing young trumpeters-to-be a great service while making a few quid.
o Find a quiet place to practice that offers total access. I used to trade services (excluding High Holy Days) for a room in the basement of the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church (5th and 55th) when I was living in New York. Today my house is built on 6 acres surrounded by trees and I rarely practice. Go figure.
o Take every gig offered, even if it's a freebie. Remember that you're doing this to play music, meet fellow musicians, and get your name out there -- not to get rich.
Where is it that you plan to move?
Weigh in, everyone?
Best,
EC