Being a professional musician is hard work but at the same time, a blessing as it is ideal compared to being employed. However, it can at times seem impossible to make a living, no matter how much talent you have, how much experience you have, and how many years of studying you have done, as people increasingly try to take the achievements of musicians and pay them less and less. It isn’t right that musicians aren’t respected, but fortunately there is the Musician’s Union which is trying hard to make it known that it is a job that deserves fair pay. Many of us invest hours, years and a lot of money into our craft, and the least people can do is pay us to hear it. We do have to eat and live after all. This can seem out of our control, but there are some things that you can do to increase your chances of making a living from music. There are also some common mistakes that musicians make that can really hinder their career progression. Read on to find out what they are, as well as what to do instead.
- Not building a brand. It is absolutely essential that you build your craft before thinking of becoming a professional musician, but once you get there, you should build your brand. I know you’re in it for the art, but if you want to live from music and you want to make money from your music then this immediately makes it more than just about the art. It now turns your skills into a business, and the rules of business are a bit different from the freedom of playing music when you want and how you like it. No matter how much you try to resist creating a brand, it is inevitable that even if you don’t build one, one will be created for you. A brand is your image, and everyone has an image. Using this image to sell your music and advertise yourself is the best thing you can do to boost your chances of making more money. If you really have no idea where to start, you could use a Brand Strategy Agency who can help you come up with strategies to build your brand. You must look at yourself as a business if you truly want to sell, and this is the best way to start. Visit https://www.reallyhelpfulmarketing.co.uk/specialist-services/brand-strategy-agency/ to find out more about the brand strategy agency.
- Not having a website, or not using social media. No matter how much you may hate technology, it has revolutionised the world and how people in society connect and communicate. When you have such a resource as social media and the internet to reach potential listeners and fans of music worldwide, it seems foolish not to make the most of it. Websites have never been so easy to build but you can hire a professional to design it for you if you have the money.
- The last mistake musicians make is not supporting other musicians. Networking is incredibly important to create connections and get contact. The music industry is all about who you know. Going to gigs is a good way to make yourself known to other musicians and potentially their managers or agents. They may introduce you to people that can help you.
