These Two Will Meet

Many aspiring artists and musicians dream of being the greatest at his or her gift, but unfortunately, it is not enough to just dream. It is common to hear opportunity will meet preparation, and those who are prepared receive major opportunities. Discipline and practice set apart artists who want to achieve the dream from those who just talk about the dream.  Oftentimes, many people quit his or her dream because it became too hard or it was not happening fast enough. Which one are you?

Artist House Music posted a video of a Loyola University professor interviewing Kirk Whalum who is a professional saxophone player. In the video “Constantly Improving your Craft as a Musician," Kirk shared how important it is to continuously improve your gift. Before Kirk became famous, he practiced every chance he received. One day, he received a call from a friend who played for Whitney Houston and asked him if he wanted to play for her as the saxophonist. This was an opportunity of a lifetime, and he did not let it pass him by. However, Kirk understood touring was not what he wanted to do for the rest of his life because it would not challenge his gift. Therefore, he went on to be a solo artist and became very successful.

As an artist or musician, take these key points into consideration:

1.     BE PREPARED: A musician or an artist should constantly practice everyday. Take vocal and instrumental lessons from professionals who can teach the individual the fundamentals of their instrument.

2.     STAY CURRENT: An artist NEVER stops learning his or her instrument. Every day the artist should research new music trends, artists, instrumentalists, and business practices in the industry.

3.     DON’T GET COMPLACENT: Always find the opportunity to try something new with your gift. If you are on tour, swallow the hard pill of quitting the tour and become a solo artist once you build a fan base.

Remember, OPPORTUNITY WILL MEET PREPARATION. Will you be ready?