While technical abilities and musical skills are obviously crucial for any musician, there are also non-musical qualities that can build your career in new and exciting ways. Our co-founders Bindu and Ambi Subramaniam share some essential skills that will go a long way in building relationships, managing your career, and creating the maximum artistic impact. Here they are:
1 – Effective communication
Communicate frequently and effectively. Clear and effective communication is key to successful collaboration and professional interactions. Whether it’s with fellow musicians on stage, technicians in the studio, producers, or audiences, clear and timely (and polite!) communication is your friend. Good communication helps in resolving conflicts, sharing creative visions, and building strong working relationships.
2 – Time management
Effectively managing your hours helps you get more done, while also giving you guilt-free down time. Musicians often have to juggle multiple commitments – practice, performance, recordings, teaching, and administrative work. With the help of tools like online calendars, task management apps, and setting clear priorities for yourself, you can allocate your time efficiently and avoid burnout.
3 – Organisational skills
It is a myth that creativity flourishes in chaos. When you have a structured approach to your work, and track your progress towards individual goals, your mind will be wired to be more disciplined and create more (and better) art.
4 – Financial Management
Understanding financial management is vital for sustaining a career in music. Musicians should be knowledgeable about budgeting, managing income, and planning for taxes. Creating a budget, keeping track of expenses, and understanding basic accounting principles can help you ensure that you’re prepared for the financial ups and downs of a music career.
5 – Consistency
It’s better to start small and build from there, instead of trying to do it all in one day and burning out as a result.
Like any other skill, these are built over time, and with many stumbles along the way. However, incorporating them into your life will help you better navigate the many complexities of the musical world.
