Author: DrewSorensenMusic
Date: 2013-06-04 16:15
I will play Devil's advocate and all around opinion you don't want to hear on the subject. It's important to have as full an understanding as possible.
Music just to perform is very difficult to make a living at. Those musicians that can do that in this world can be counted on two hands. Even then, they are involved helping to design new instruments or teaching or other things. From what I remember, Chris above repairs instruments as well as plays every woodwind under the sun. How he makes his musical living will be quite different from you. Very many of us here are hobbyists, playing in community or better ensembles, but it is not our main source of income. Some of us resell instruments, or make reeds, or have an oboe supply business. Some of us work in Computers, or are retired from jobs outside of music. All very admirable ways to supplement your life as a musician.
Step one, what music do you see yourself performing as a career?
Step two, if it is a historic style, who are the performers performing this style? If it is a new style, skip to step four.
Step three, how did these performers get their start? What are they doing now? Are they doing anything else to earn a living outside of this one act? Can you get in touch with them about helping you get started? Do you have any other links to the field that can help you get started?
Step four, understand that you are a paid performer because you can do something nobody else can do. If someone can do it better than you, than you will be replaced. Are you prepared for this? Do you have what it takes to be the best, in the world? Out of 7,120,934,995 people you will be top 10 in oboe playing (or classical guitar)?
I realize I may not be winning any friends by saying this, nor am I trying to be a jerk. If you got to step four and answered yes, then well done, I wish you good luck. If you have any doubt, well, maybe do a double major, something to fall back on or earn some money as you grow as a musician.
Consequently the folks on this board are a great help to those wanting to grow as an oboist. I encourage you to keep asking questions. They have been a great help to me.
Drew S.
http://www.youtube.com/user/DrewSorensenMusic
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