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FITS & BURSTS | 7 Professional Habits For Musicians to Learn Before They’re 30

By Michael Vincent on May 1, 2015

SuperMusicMan

You’re in your twenties and finally out of school, or close to it. Now is the time to hustle your butt-off and start climbing the career ladder towards realizing your goals and dreams as a professional musician.

So here are a few skills that will help distinguish yourself from the pack.

Show Up Early

There is something to be said for people who are always 5 – 10 minutes early. It shows you are dependable and have mastered the elusive skill of time management – a knack some never get the hang of.

You’ll also look like you’re on the ball, and most importantly – a consummate professional.

Gig as Much as You Can

Whether you are an opera singer or a composer, gigs represent valuable opportunities to hone your skills and make new contacts. This is especially true for those in their twenties, because when you get out of music school (if you haven’t already) you will learn that good gigs are few and far between – especially if you haven’t yet acquired the extensive professional networks that more established musicians have.

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Make To-Do Lists 

Making a daily list of tasks may seem obsessive compulsive, but the truth is, lists help keep you on task and efficient. They also help you get in the habit of setting priorities. Even if you don’t get everything done on your list, it’s an important process to get in the habit of doing everyday. Learn how here.

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Read Up On Your Community

Take time to keep up with the news and issues going on in opera or classical music world. The community is small, but spread out. Learn about the communities not just in your local vicinity, but in other cities and countries well. This will help you spot opportunities and keep you in the loop. The fact that you are reading Musical Toronto is a good start. 😉

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Make Time For Yourself 

The ironic thing about technology was that it was supposed to make our lives easier and give us more leisure time. We all know that didn’t happen, and made us busier than ever. You absolutely must take time for yourself. Go for a walk. Meet up with friends. Go to the gym. This will keep you fresh, and vibrant. Work-life balance is key.

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Keep Learning

For those just recently out of university, the thought of continued education is the last thing you want to be thinking about. But the truth is, the learning never stops. Keep reading, keep training, keep mastering your skills. It never stops.

Coffin-Masterclass

Learn How to Talk About Money

Talking about money is a tricky topic for a lot of people – especially musicians. Art and money are like oil and water sometimes – but don’t be afraid to ask to be paid. In fact, demand it. If you don’t know how to negotiate money then learn.

If you have something of value to offer, then there is no shame in expecting to be commentated for it.

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Michael Vincent
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