Ever wonder what to do with all the guitar scales and guitar chords you’ve been working so hard to master? The answer is simple. Turn your experience into income. In short, play the guitar for the money. That’s right, turn your hard work into well-fashioned bucks. Think of it this way, then You No, someone else will.
A professional guitarist already knows how to make a good living by playing the guitar. On top of that, most elite guitar players spent years and years playing local clubs and show houses before advancing to higher paying gigs. However, it is heartening to know that even the best had to pay their dues in the early years. Therefore, this article is for the guitarist who is trying to find his way to the path of musical success. In general, this is the intermediate player.
Right now, all over the world, in every city and every country, there are thousands and thousands of guitarists wondering what to do with their developing talent. They’ve practiced some guitar chords, guitar scales, and most likely learned a few songs on the guitar. In some cases, many have studied some music theories. These guitarists are ready to step up. But where and how? These questions, for many guitarists, remain troubling until they are resolved.
Learning to play the guitar is difficult for many, let alone reaching a good level of mechanical proficiency and then confused about what to do next. This confusion has shelved the careers of many would-be guitarists. However, these days, there should be less confusion due to the huge amount of educational materials available on the internet, etc. There is a lot of education that everyone can do.
It is important to remember that playing the guitar should always be fun. Learning a new guitar chord should always be fun. In fact, everything one does with a guitar should be fun (except for breaking it). What, then, is the answer to advance to a paid position as a middle guitarist? Let’s examine some possibilities.
First, consider what kind of gameplay scenario you want to play. are you single? Do you prefer to play Duo? tripartite? Would you like to be part of a whole squad? Your decision is unreasonable in order to move forward in time. Remember, we’re trying to prepare for the income situation, not the friendly neighborhood crowd. So, how do you envision yourself as a working guitarist? Once you have answered this question, the rest is actually very simple. Surround yourself only with like-minded musicians. In other words, associate and build your band or business around those who want to generate income.
There are already thousands of paid gigs out there. One just needs to dig and find it. Get a demo for your band or yourself as a guitarist before You start searching. A good promotional package goes a long way. Don’t leave home without someone if you expect someone to take you seriously.
The fact of the matter is that while there are thousands of guitarists (and musicians) who are able to play the guitar for their income, very few of them will actually take the necessary steps to make it happen. Why? Lack of motivation is probably high on the list of answers. Moreover, many do not know how to start. This is great news for those who are genuinely motivated to earn an income playing guitar.
Potential paid performances include dance clubs, weddings, festivals, community events, church events, beach parties, business events, city-sponsored events, fashion shows, high school dances, college dances, and many more. Communication is essential.
For the average guitarist, there’s a whole world out there waiting for you, which can be very thriving. After all, why spend hundreds of hours learning guitar chords, guitar scales, vocals, and music theory if you don’t plan to actually make a living playing guitar? Of course, the exception is the guitarist who is completely content with playing simple songs around a campfire. This is great fun, and for some, this is as far as you can go. Again, that’s fine.
Looking back, I can honestly tell you that all those years of playing clubs all over the US and abroad really paid off. Those years were preparation for bigger stages, bigger venues, and bigger audiences. Those years were very interesting and profitable. The trick is to plan your action and act on your plan. Not everyone can do that. Again, this is good news for you.
Every aspect of playing the guitar should be fun. No matter how successful a person is, it is important to like the profession you have chosen. Get rid of the people who are just there to ride. Never waste time, because time waits for no man.
The next time you’re practicing guitar, playing songs, or learning a new guitar chord or guitar scale, and wondering if there is a place for you, remember that there is. However, you will have to take action. Nobody can sit around waiting for a result. The desired result can only be achieved by carrying out the appropriate steps. So, get up, get busy, and get out there today. You’ll be glad you did.
© 2008 Michael E. Fletcher. All rights reserved worldwide.
