4 answers
Evan
Student
Leola, PA
1
Question
Updated
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How many auditions did it take you to get your first actual professional music job/gig ?
I’m currently an undergrad vocal performance major and I know the industry can be brutal. How difficult is it exactly and how much rejection should I expect to receive?
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4 answers
Kyran McShaw
3
Answers
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Kyran’s Answer
I would say don't necessarily expect rejection but have a plan should you happen to be rejected. Honestly everyone experiences it to some degree as being a musician is a field that is generally left up the the listeners interpretation. But the more important thing is to not allow a few "NOs" to keep you from striving for the yes. There can be plenty of factors keeping you from a role/part, but as long as you accept constructive criticism and learn from that opportunity you will eventually get a YES. And if all else fails don't be afraid to create your own lane tastefully.
Kyran McShaw
3
Answers
Updated
Kyran’s Answer
I would say don't necessarily expect rejection but have a plan should you happen to be rejected. Honestly everyone experiences it to some degree as being a musician is a field that is generally left up the the listeners interpretation. But the more important thing is to not allow a few "NOs" to keep you from striving for the yes. There can be plenty of factors keeping you from a role/part, but as long as you accept constructive criticism and learn from that opportunity you will eventually get a YES. And if all else fails don't be afraid to create your own lane tastefully. Remember art is all about perspective and creativity. There's generally no wrong answer.
Craig Colley
Professional musician, songwriter & composer
2
Answers
Laguna Niguel, California
Updated
Craig’s Answer
Fortunately I only needed one and landed my first professional gig. The reason is I had been studying and preparing for years and had done hundreds of gigs solo or with a band along with becoming a music major in college. I started playing gigs at age 11 and landed my 1st full time music gig at 22. During those early years I visualized, rehearsed and performed everywhere I could to emulate what I ultimately was trying to achieve. The end result - when the right opportunity arose I was ready. I have been a full professional musician ever since. There are no short cuts. You have to work hard and be able to deliver on call so to speak. Since that time I have done over 12,000 gigs, 35,000 hours on stage and never missed the performance. Staying healthy is another big part of it.
Kyle Mattingly
Pianist, Music Director
18
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Kyle’s Answer
Instead of asking "how much should I expect?" try thinking about "what do I really want to do?" or "how much do I want this?" No matter where you are in your career, it's better to keep your eyes on your goals rather than worrying about avoiding pain or counting how many times you've been rejected. It's normal to lose focus sometimes, and tough times will happen, but keeping a positive, goal-focused mindset can help you through both the good and bad times.