Instead of hunting for an elusive dream job...
Welcome to the ArtsBound Newsletter. Every Tuesday, I share three thoughts or insights meant to help performing arts students and young professionals flourish in their life and career. Today, we’re talking about creating your own gig rather than hunting for ideal employment.
- 4-minute read -
(NOTE: I started ArtsBound because I believe the world would be a better place with more people living their true calling. If you know a student or young professional who is searching for their niche in the performing arts world, consider forwarding this email to them. If this email was forwarded to you, you can sign up to receive my newsletter every Tuesday. It's free, and I’ll never share or sell your data.)
1. Reasons for creating your own gig, and ways to do so.
Full-time employment has many perks. It can be very nice to know that you have a regular salary, benefits, and a steady stream of work.
But oftentimes, creators are led into territories not yet developed by institutional structures, and the fulfillment of their calling requires them to generate their own work venues and opportunities. This could take on a number of different forms, including but not limited to the following:
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Developing on online audience for your art
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Founding your own education programs, arts organization, or production company
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Partnering with a venue to produce your own performances
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Building a studio of private students
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Starting a business to offer arts-related goods or services
There are several reasons for and benefits to creating your own gig:
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You can present your art on your own terms.
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You can promote a cause or philosophy you are passionate about.
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If you also work a full-time job, you have control over how much time you give to a project.
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You are your own boss.
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You can develop your own credibility in the industry.
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You will bolster your confidence in your ability to achieve your goals and take on new projects.
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You can choose who you work with.
As you might guess, deep self-knowledge is one of many prerequisites (and perhaps the most important) for success in self-created endeavors. If you’ve ever felt called to create your own gig, working with a coach is a great way to hone in on the type of project you will find most fulfilling and offer the focus needed to get off to a solid start.
Exposing yourself to the stories of others who have created their own gigs is also a great way to build your confidence for undertaking your own endeavor (as long as you can avoid comparing your journey to theirs) and build a virtual ‘tribe’ of other creators from which to draw encouragement.
The other two items in this week’s newsletter are all about guests on the ArtsBound Podcast who have, in one way or another, created their own gig. They may not know who you are, but the wisdom they share is for you - because we all want to see you flourish in your life and career.
I hope you check out an episode or two. :-)
2. Conversation with a founder.
The newest episode of the ArtsBound Podcast features the Founder, CEO, & Artistic Director of Hill Dance Academy Theatre (HDAT) - Dr. Ayisha Morgan-Lee.
In our conversation, Ayisha recounts her experiences as the only Black student in her dance classes. Knowing that she didn’t want a 9-to-5 job and passionate about creating an environment in which Black youth can develop a belief in their ability to enter the dance world, she started offering classes in Black dance traditions and later founded HDAT at the age of 22.
When she started HDAT, Ayisha was teaching all of the classes in addition to wearing the hats of Founder & CEO and managing all the work associated with those roles. HDAT is now in its 15th year and boasts a staff of fourteen teaching artists.
Ayisha’s story is inspiring and our talk is also revealing of the work that goes into running your own organization. You can listen to our complete interview HERE.
3. Other ‘gig-makers’ on the ArtsBound Podcast.
There are several other episodes of the podcast that feature performers who have created their own jobs. If you are looking for more wisdom, insight, and inspiration in this arena, check out the interviews with any of these enterprising artists:
Jason Cook, shortly after joining the staff of a music store started by his friend and bandmate, assumed the role of manager and took it upon himself to learn as much about guitar repair as possible. He built such a reputation in repair that he was able to transition the business, which he eventually bought from his friend, to solely repairs and studio space for lessons after market conditions no longer favored the maintenance of his retail space.
Emily Wertz, after teaching public school for a short time, earned her master’s degree and built a robust studio of voice students in addition to her work as a college professor. She also started her own health & fitness coaching business as a coach for BeachBody.
Meg McQue, in addition to teaching public school music, built a solid studio of piano students. When she decided to resign from the public school to stay home with her children, she was able to continue teaching piano as a reliable source of income as well as starting community music classes for toddlers.
Walt Straiton, after teaching in the public school for over two decades, transitioned into work as a music merchandiser for Yamaha and then Conn-Selmer. Since making the shift, he has tapped his broad network of connections to produce ad hoc symphonic performances, giving him the chance to still conduct an orchestra every so often.
Gerald Savage, in addition to his full-time work as a music educator for the Pittsburgh Public Schools, started his own practice as a sound therapist.
If you or someone you know might benefit from guidance as they aim to make the most out of 2021 - artistically, personal, professionally, or otherwise - don’t hesitate to reach out.
Best wishes for the New Year!
Lee
PS - I started ArtsBound because I believe the world would be a better place with more people living their true calling. If you know a student or young professional who is searching for their niche in the performing arts world, consider forwarding this email to them. If this email was forwarded to you, you can sign up to receive my newsletter every Tuesday. It's free, and I’ll never share or sell your data.