Have you ever wondered what to do with all those guitar scales and guitar chords you’ve been working so hard to master? The answer is simple. Turn your experience into income. In short, playing the guitar for money. That’s right, turn your hard work into good old-fashioned bucks. Think of it this way, yeah you no, someone else will.
The professional guitarist already knows how to make a good living playing the guitar. Also, most high end guitarists spent years and years playing local clubs and show houses before moving on to higher paying gigs. However, it is heartening to know that even the best had to pay their fair share in the early years. Therefore, this article is dedicated to the guitarist trying to find his way to musical success. Generally, this is the middle player.
Right now, all over the world, and in every city and in 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 theory. These guitarists are ready to progress. But where and how? These questions, for many guitarists, are unsettling until they are resolved.
Learning to play the guitar is difficult enough for many, not to mention reaching a good level of mechanical proficiency and then being confused about what to do next. This confusion has protected the careers of many potential guitarists. However, these days there should be less confusion due to the vast amount of educational material available on the internet etc. There is a lot of education for everyone.
It’s important to remember that playing the guitar should always be fun. Learning a new guitar chord should always be fun. In fact, everything you do with the guitar should be fun (except smash it). So what is the answer to progressing in a paid situation as an intermediate guitarist? Let’s examine some possibilities.
First, consider what kind of game scenario you want. Are you a solo act? Prefer to play in duo? in trio? Do you want to be part of a full-fledged band? Your decision is imperative to be able to move forward in a timely manner. Remember, we are trying to prepare for an income situation, not a friendly neighborhood. So, how do you imagine yourself as a working guitarist? Once you’ve answered this question, the rest is pretty simple. Surround yourself only with like-minded musicians. In other words, get associated and build your band or perform around those who want to generate income.
There are literally thousands of paying Gigs out there. One just needs to dig and find them. Make a demo of your band or yourself as a guitarist before you start looking. A good promotional package goes a long way. Don’t leave home without one if you expect someone to take you seriously.
The truth of the matter is that while there are thousands of guitarists (and musicians) who are capable of playing the guitar for their income, few will actually take the steps necessary to make it happen. Because? Lack of motivation is probably very high on the answer list. In addition, many simply do not know how to start. This is great news for those who are really motivated to make a living playing the guitar.
Potential paying gigs 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. , many more. Networking is essential.
For the intermediate guitarist, there is a whole world waiting for you, which could turn out to be quite prosperous. After all, why spend hundreds of hours learning guitar chords, guitar scales, songs, and music theory if you’re not planning on playing the guitar for a living? Of course, the exception is the guitarist who is perfectly content playing simple tunes around the campfire. This is a lot of fun, and for some, this is as far as it gets. Once again, this is fine.
Looking back, I can honestly tell you that all those years I spent playing clubs in the US and abroad really paid off. Those years were preparation for bigger stages, bigger venues, and bigger audiences. Those years were the fun years and very profitable. The trick is to plan your work and work your plan. Not everyone can do that. Once again, this is good news for you.
All aspects of playing the guitar should be fun. No matter how successful one is, it is important to love your chosen profession. Eliminate people who are only there for the ride. Never waste time, because time waits for no one.
The next time you’re practicing the guitar, playing songs, learning a new guitar chord or scale, and wondering if there’s a place for you, remember that there is. However, you will have to take action. No one can sit back and wait for a result. The desired result can only be achieved with the implementation of the appropriate steps. So, get up, get to work, and get out there today. You’ll be glad you did.
© 2008 Michael E. Fletcher. All rights reserved throughout the world.