BE WILLING TO PUT THE WORK IN

“My advice to anyone wanting to pursue a career in the music business would be to expect to have to work VERY hard, be as versatile as possible and learn to cope with the inevitable setbacks... it’s worth the struggle!” Anne Macdonald, Examiner

“Be hungry and passionate about what you do and be willing to put the work in. The right attitude and work ethic will open the doors to the opportunities you’re seeking but, in the words of Guvna B, “If you don’t put the work in, how’s it gonna work out!” Matt Brooks, Session Drummer

TRY NOT TO BE TOO COMPETITIVE

“Work at being the best you can be and don’t worry about comparing yourself to other people. Just because someone is a better player than you, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are better qualified for a certain gig than you are. Relax and enjoy doing what you do!” Rosa Ullman, Session Keyboards Player

“The most important things to keep in mind as you embark on a career in the music industry are to learn and hone your craft to the best of your ability; remember why you fell in love with music; and stay humble! Music is not a competition.” Brendan Reilly, Session Singer

BE PROFESSIONAL

“Know your instrument, keep it in good working order, be fastidious about tuning and always carry spare leads, batteries, strings, drumsticks etc. Arrive with enough time to set up, warm up and sound check.” Moira Hartley, Examiner “Always know the music inside out, be on time, always be professional, and sing backing vocals!” Ellen O’Reilly, Session Bassist

KEEP LISTENING AND LEARNING

“Listen to ALL music and really understand the fundamentals of your craft. Be able to play any style authentically and don’t assume certain beats are simple – it’s all about feel.” David Dyson, Session Drummer

“Listen to lots of different artists, work hard and enjoy making music!” Ross Brennan, Examiner

BE AUTHENTIC

“My advice to anyone wishing to enter the music business is to be yourself. There is only one of you in the world, and what you have to say through your musical voice is unique.” Clara Charlesworth, Examiner

“I would advise any aspiring musicians to be true to themselves – don’t play or write what they think others will think is cool. It will never be truly authentic.” James Arben, Examiner

“Develop your own sound and style and don’t spend too much time trying to sound like other people.” David Weston, Examiner

BE FRIENDLY AND RELIABLE

“The best advice I can give anyone who is considering becoming a professional musician is to be punctual, organised and friendly. Musicians rely on word of mouth recommendations to get work and you can easily get a bad reputation if you don’t turn up on time or let people down, haven’t got your gear together or have a poor attitude or a big ego. Remember, someone is hiring you to do a job and it is their gig. It doesn’t matter how good you are if you can’t get along with anyone!” Anders Rye, Examiner

TAKE EVERY OPPORTUNITY

“Be prepared to work incredibly hard, take every opportunity and don’t give up. It’s so easy in such a tough industry to get affected by the knocks and competition but you have to know what you want, stay focused and see beyond that.” Charlotte Lubbok, Session Singer

“The best advice I could give is to meet as many people as you can, play in front of as many people as you can, and above all always be nice! You never know who you’re talking to and what work they could offer you.” David Kyle Payne, Session Bassist

“I would urge aspiring rock and pop musicians to grasp every opportunity you are offered, you never know where it might lead!” Ellen Foster, Examiner