Here are some tips for the solo wind musician.
If you play woodwinds, brass, strings, or any single line instrument.
You can make a substantial amount of money using your play-a-long library.
That is right!…Your play-a-long library can be a gold golden of income.

I know it works because I’ve done it.
If I can do it, anybody should be able to do it.
Here’s the plan…

First,…You have all these wonderful play-a-longs that you used to practice with.
You’ve spent many, many hours learning these songs, and perfecting your talent.
A lot of these play-a-longs are really great accompaniment, and most are recorded by professional musicians.

Well,…Why not put together a nice sounding PA, or sound system, whatever you can afford.
Use all those wonderful play-a-longs you’ve had for years. Put together some 30 to 40 minute song sets.
Go out and target all the venues in your area that would be great for a solo musician such as you to perform in,…and make some easy money.

Sounds crazy!…Think again!
You will be surprised to find out just how many establishments want live entertainment.
But, do not have the room, or the budget to hire a full band.

Here’s an example from my own experiences.
I have played a coffee shop in the morning.
A restaurant in the afternoon.
And,…with my regular band that night.
The result,…Three times the income I would have made in one day.

I charge $50 to $100 for small establishments and parties.
$100 to $200 for larger establishments, and private functions.
$200 and up for high pallor functions.
You have to be the judge of how much you need to charge per gig.
Also, do not forget about your expenses.
Oh!…I forgot to mention the tips!
That is extra gravy, or icing on the cake.

So…Go ahead…Make that money!
Put those old dusty play-a-longs to work.
Get off your butt!…get out there and find those venues!
Be your own boss, put forth the effort, and be persistent.
It’s all up to you!

Since I play mostly jazz, I recommend:
“Jamey Aebersold Jazz”
This is a great source for jazz play-a-longs.
Another source for all kinds of music is:
“Music Minus One”
Just type, that phrase in your browse and Google it.

Tags: Instruments, Music General, Musical Performance