"Empowering Classical Musicians: Navigating Your Professional Journey"
How many times have we thought "I just need to be the best and a manager will come and bring me where I need to be" during our studies? Unless you are the 1-2% of musicians who build that kind of career from (almost) the start of their artistic journey, chances are you are living a Disney version of happily-ever-after.
In the intricate tapestry of the classical music world, a couple of truths stand above all: the trajectory of your career rests firmly in your hands and nobody is coming to save you. As a classical musician, your artistic journey is not just about mastering your instrument or interpreting compositions; it's also about effectively managing your career and achieve your aspirations. Here's how you can take charge and steer your career towards success.
Embrace Ownership and Responsibility
The first step towards managing your career effectively is to acknowledge that you are the captain of your ship. Embrace the responsibility that comes with shaping your musical path and making strategic decisions that align with your goals and values. Ask yourselves "why am I doing what I am doing? What's the end goal?" From repertoire selection to promotional efforts, every choice you make contributes to the direction of your career.
Cultivate a Growth Mindset
In the ever-evolving landscape of classical music, adaptability and continuous learning are essential. Cultivate a growth mindset that thrives on challenges and sees setbacks as opportunities for growth. Stay curious, explore new musical horizons, and embrace lifelong learning to refine your craft and stay relevant in a dynamic industry. We pledge our lives to learning new music and repertoire, it's time we do that with our careers too.
Set Clear Goals and Prioritize
Define clear, actionable goals for your career, whether it's securing a certain number of performances, expanding your repertoire, or gaining recognition in a particular niche. Write it down without the constraints of "what is realistic". Break down these goals into manageable steps and prioritize tasks that will move you closer to your objectives. Setting milestones and tracking your progress will help you stay focused and motivated along the way. Start from your biggest goal 10 years from now and go backwards. I actually have multiple lists written down and hanging from a board in my kitchen which I see every morning when I drink my coffee. I divided my goals into monthly, weekly and daily. That way I can stay on top of all of my goals, even the biggest ones, one step at a time.
Network and Build Relationships
Networking is a powerful tool in the arsenal of any classical musician. Cultivate meaningful relationships with fellow musicians, conductors, managers, concert and festival organizers and industry professionals. Attend concerts, conferences, and networking events to expand your circle and seize opportunities for collaboration and mentorship. Remember, fostering genuine connections is key to building a robust support network in the music community. Your NetWORK is your NetWORTH.
Leverage Digital Platforms and Technology
In today's digital age, classical musicians have unprecedented access to a wealth of online platforms and technological tools to amplify their reach and visibility. Embrace social media, create a professional website, and leverage streaming platforms to showcase your performances and engage with your audience. Explore innovative technologies, such as AI-driven practice apps or virtual performance platforms, to enhance your skills and broaden your horizons. But remember that these are but tools which you can use to get closer to your overall goal. Don't rely on any one of these for a successful career.
Seek Guidance and Mentorship
Don't hesitate to seek guidance from experienced mentors or industry professionals who can offer valuable insights and advice based on their own career journeys. Whether it's navigating contractual agreements, marketing strategies, or artistic development, having a trusted mentor can provide invaluable support and guidance as you navigate the complexities of the classical music industry. Invest in yourself and in your knowledge. Consult with local or international artists' management agencies and always invest in yourself and your knowledge.
Conclusion
As a classical musician, the power to shape your career lies squarly in your hands. By taking ownership, fostering a growth mindset, setting clear goals and following up, building meaningful relationships, leveraging technology, and seeking guidance when needed, you can chart a course towards a fulfilling and successful career in the world of classical music. Remember, your career is a journey, and with dedication, perseverance, and a proactive approach, the possibilities are endless.
If you are unsure what what you should do next, book a virtual coffee with me ant let's discuss the options available to you ;)
