Musicians just want to make music. We get it. Even so, it usually takes some funding to do the music. That means sometimes, you have to put down the instrument for a bit and apply for a grant. It can be a laborious process, and frustrating when your application efforts don’t result in financial support for your career or project. The good news is that there are probably more grant-giving organizations out there than you can imagine and you can learn how to prepare grant applications to increase your chances of being awarded. It just takes some practice. You can do that.

 

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When performers approach a piece of music, they must decide how they’re going to interpret it. The notes may be there on the page, but a lot artistically has to happen for those notes to come into life.  A music arranger is often an integral part of this artistic process.

 

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Have you applied for your summer job yet? If you haven’t – get going; times a-wastin’.

 

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Professional networking can be uncomfortable for a lot of people. Even socially-inclined folks feel networking can be a bit mercenary at times. It can feel like everyone’s constantly assessing how another person can benefit his or her business and career interests.

 

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If you’re a regular reader of the StringOvation blog (and you should be), you may have seen our recent post on the “Top 5 Jobs for Musicians.” One of the top five jobs is music journalist, which can be a great career option for anyone who loves writing as much as they love music.

 

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A sound engineer is one of those great jobs for people interested in both technology and the arts. It requires a lot of technical expertise, but also requires a creative bent that helps musicians and performers realize their artistic intent.

 

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Music students preparing for college know that the essay portion of the application is crucial. If you’ve been reading the news lately, you know that one high school senior, Kwasi Enin, was recently accepted to every school he applied, including eight Ivy League schools. Granted, he scored 2250 on his SAT and was in the top 2% of his class, but his essay (which you can read here) is being touted as a major influence. In fact, many admissions board members say that your application essay has the power to solidify your approval or scuttle your chances.

 

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The summer job is a rite of passage. They make movies about summer jobs. But you don't need to get lost in a summer job that doesn't excite you. There are numerous music jobs for student musicians you need to check out that can enhance your music skills and just all around gives you skills you didn't think you had.

 

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Don't you ever wonder how you can make a good living doing the thing you're most passionate about - music! As a string musician, there are so many different avenues open to you for having a successful and rewarding career. Not everyone wants to be the next Joshua Bell or John Williams. Take this quiz and find out. You may discover the dream job you never even thought about!

 

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Budding and experienced musicians have a range of job options available to them. That's the good news. The challenge arises in getting attention from the right people to get the job you want. According to at least one study, people spend around six seconds looking at a resume before deciding if it goes on the "no" or "second look" pile.

 

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