Become a Jazz Musician
Traditionally, being a jazz musician meant dedicating yourself to it and living in poverty. Jazz is a tough sell because musicians generally don't fill arenas and sell millions of CDs like rock bands. That doesn't mean you can't make money, but you have to love the music more than the money.
Instructions
1. Learn about the history of the music. Jazz is more like classical music than rock or country. The rhythms, techniques and sub-genres are all tied up with its history. You must understand it to be an effective jazz musician.
2. Find others to play gigs with you. It's best to start in a band so you have their support and inspiration. Once you've got experience with a band, you can do solo gigs and record your own work.
3. Practice at least four times a week. You should set aside at least one day a week to play with others, as the challenge of keeping up with other instruments will help you grow as a musician. You still need some time alone, though, to experiment and perfect your technique.
4. Play any local gigs you can find. Weddings and parties are a good place to start since the venues are relatively small and the guests less critical. Once you and your band can give references, check out local clubs.
5. Build a website to give you and your band a professional image. Include information about your experience, interest and musical philosophy. Offer free MP3 downloads and a page for gig dates.
6. Network with other jazz musicians to learn about opportunities and exchange ideas. Yahoo! has the Jazz Players group that's been around since 2001. All About Jazz has message boards where you can talk shop.
7. Create your own jazz CD and market it. Music software makes it easy to produce something you can sell at local gigs and on your website.
8. Market to agents, record labels and larger venues once you've got some experience. Keep records of your CD sales and make sure your website looks professional.
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