I did it! I’ve taken the first step in building something new: a Public Relations firm and, with it, a blog. It’s been a long time since I’ve blogged on a regular basis, but I’m excited to dive in!
I’m no stranger to building a new business or freelancing. For the better part of a decade, I worked as a freelance musician, cobbling together a career of teaching, gigging, and random part-time jobs to support myself as I pursued my music degrees. But, to get the gigs and the students, I had to create things I barely knew I needed and really didn't know how to make well: a bio, curriculum vitae, website, social media presence, etc. Not only that, I had to start interacting with people outside the practice room to network!
All of this seemed so different than the music school experience, where how much and how well you practiced felt like the only factor determining your success. Then, once you finished school, it was time to audition. The rest would fall into place (this is a very simplified version of reality). However, what I never really heard much about was how to hold your life together between school and winning that big audition (if that would even happen!). It just wasn’t built into my studies. Of course I don’t blame my teachers and musical mentors. Far from it in fact! They gave me wonderful skills to express myself artistically and teach effectively. Plus, not even the internet can make up for a lack of practice and excellent technique...
A decade ago, the internet wasn’t what it is today, and the classic model of how musicians create a successful career was still viable. However, with the rise of an open internet and social media, people were suddenly able to freely share more about themselves and what they can do. Many music schools just couldn’t keep up. The great news today is that many have, particularly the well-known conservatories and large university programs, but countless others aren't quite there yet.
That’s where I come in! Since I had to teach myself how to carve out my place, much of my blog will be focused on helping young musicians build their own personal public relations and marketing skills.
So, get ready! I’ll be bringing you a series of blogs and other content designed to help you craft an outstanding resumé/curriculum vitae, create a polished professional bio, get online with a stunning website, figure out what works on social media, and more!
Comments are more than welcome, so let me know what you want to learn more about!