World-class professional musicians wouldn’t be where they are today without music teachers. — A few months ago, I received a comment on one of my articles, essentially calling me out for implying that I wasn’t as excited to teach my violin students as I was to play in the symphony. It certainly wasn’t my intention to come across that way, but I can…

Are they mere figureheads of the orchestra? — The average audience member often assumes that the conductor is the ultimate authority figure who runs the organization. However, it’s far more complex than that. While, yes, the conductor has a fair amount of artistic authority, they have relatively little control over the logistical aspects, such as hiring personnel or…

It should be common sense; keyword should. — If you’ve ever taken music lessons or played in some kind of band or orchestra at any level, you probably already know the importance of bringing your music, pencil, and instrument to every rehearsal. School teachers and conductors will kindly, or not so kindly if you’re a repeat offender, remind…

I forgot how busy pre-pandemic life was. — It’s been a minute, as the kids would say. I just finished my first season as an orchestral musician that wasn’t interrupted by any Covid-related lockdowns. It turns out that’s actually pretty intense! Over the past few months, I have been thinking about turning some of my experiences into Medium…

What a ride. — To say that this year has been quite a journey would be an understatement. I know I’ve established many times that I don’t owe an explanation or apology for not writing regularly. I merely haven’t been as interested in writing on Medium as I was in 2021. In some ways…

The symphony orchestra career path is not all sunshine and rainbows. — Since the start of the pandemic, I’ve mentioned that I’ve been a bit more stressed out than usual at my symphony job. As you might imagine, pandemic restrictions have not been kind to performing artists. At one point, we weren’t allowed to get together in small groups for live-streamed concerts…

Notice I said, “career” and not “audition”. — There are many online courses, summer music programs, masterclasses, and university classes dedicated to orchestral audition preparation. While these are important, there’s not nearly as much discussion about what actually happens if and when you win that audition. For instance, if you think playing in a professional orchestra will be…

This lifestyle is not for every musician. — A symphony orchestra musician is often presented as one of the default career options for music students. If you don’t get into a symphony right away, then you’ll teach and take freelance gigs until you win an audition. Generally, university professors tell their students to take every audition that comes…

No, it is not a collection of “failed” musicians. — As a young performing musician, it’s often expected that you attend summer music programs to hone your skills and make meaningful professional connections. While I’ve attended several summer programs and enjoyed my time there, I also feel they are overrated. Not only are they expensive, but the intensity and workload…