It’s Never Crowded on the Extra Mile
December 14th, 2010
Quote of the Day:
“No one ever attains very eminent success by simply doing what is required of him; it is the amount and excellence of what is over and above the required, that determines the greatness of ultimate distinction”.
- Adams, Charles Francis
Do you know what one of the most important ingredients to success is? Is it being the most talented female musician around? Is it having the better connections? Is it having a lot of money?
Add G.E.M.s to Shine Brightly
All these things can be very helpful in anyone’s career, but I believe that to become successful as a female musician, (or in any area in life) you need to develop the habit of G.E.M − going the extra mile.
“That’s sounds great” you may say, but what exactly does it mean to go the extra mile? Read the rest of this entry »
The Reason I Am a Musician
December 9th, 2010
Quote of the day:
“Passion is universal. Without it religion, history, romance and art would be useless.” – Honore de Balzac
Every once in a while I get into an “introspective zone”. This is when I take a look at my life and ask myself if I still want to pursue being a musician. At this time there are a few questions that usually run through my mind. What is it about being a musician that drives me? Why should I not just pack it in and pursue a career where I can make the big bucks and just do music as a hobby?
Music is a privilege
Since most of my work is done at night, I tend to have lots of free time during the day that I can do whatever I choose.
Let’s see. First of all, I consider the musical life a privilege. Since most of my work is done at night, I tend to have lots of free time during the day that I can do whatever I choose. This free time is a very important fringe benefit that most musicians take for granted. Most of my non-musician friends work during the entire day and only have a few hours at night to do the things they really like or need to do. Read the rest of this entry »
Diva is a FOUR Letter Word
November 25th, 2010
Today’s Quote:
“Women are the real architects of society”. Harriet Beecher Stowe
Have you ever been called a diva? Do you know a female musician who is considered a diva? When we think diva, we usually imagine a narcissistic woman who believes the world revolves around her – expecting everybody to act as her own personal genie, instantly satisfying her every desire.
Flipping the Diva Coin
In my opinion, you can actually be a good diva. You can be what I call a “fabulous diva”.
I’ll be the first to admit that I have met many women musicians who fall into the diva category. I have also met other women who were labeled divas and really weren’t divas at all, but were simply self-enlightened. These women, who tend to be a little older, don’t seem to be threatened by labels. They know how to wield their power and rise above criticism. They understand that in order to be a powerful person you will at times be misunderstood by individuals who cling to outdated beliefs. These so called divas have developed an inner strength that either demands respect or brings out insecurities in others.
In my opinion, you can actually be a good diva. You can be what I call a “fabulous diva”. Below is an acronym that I feel best describes this amazing woman. Read the rest of this entry »
The Art of War for Women in Music
November 15th, 2010
Quote of the Day:
“…and having acquired enough power and success, you may be able to call the shots and shape the future direction of your corporation so that it capitalizes on your own strengths.”
– Pat Heim – Hardball for Women
Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” was written over 2,000 years ago. His philosophies and strategies for conquering enemies have been used by generals, businessmen, and politicians around the world. It hasn’t been until recently that the concepts from his writings have been rewritten for women.
In her book “The Art of War for Women –It’s about the Art not the War”, author Chin-ning Chu examines these ancient philosophies as they apply to women in today’s world.
I thought it would be interesting to view some of Chin-ning Chu’s interpretations of this masterpiece and how it applies to female musicians today. Read the rest of this entry »
How to Instantly Connect With Your Audience
November 3rd, 2010
Today’s Quote:
“One of the reasons you go to the theatre is to be transported to a different time and place and experience something magical”. –Peter Fogel
What is the secret to connecting with your audience?
If you haven’t yet experienced those magical moments when you and your audience are one, you are missing one of the most amazing aspects of performing. Your fans want to experience something that moves them when they are watching a live performance. As a musician it’s your job to make this happen. Read the rest of this entry »
The Quickest Way to Further Your Career
October 11th, 2010
Today’s Quote:
“If God wanted us to think just with our wombs, why did He give us a brain?” – Claire Boote Luce
Time for a quickie
Want to learn the quickest way to grow in your music career?
Want to know how you can leap from one goal to the next in the quickest possible way?
Open yourself up to criticism.
That’s right. Listening to an objective point of view about your abilities is one of the greatest ways to gain tons of momentum toward your objectives.
Find ways to get people to critique your talent. This might mean asking a friend or colleague for feedback on the way you play your instrument, or the way you sing. If you’re a songwriter, find other songwriters who are better than you and ask for tips on your songwriting style. Read the rest of this entry »
