Beyond the Practice Room: Building Professional Relationships

“It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you.”

In the same way that building a career involves becoming acquainted with marketing techniques and an understanding of social media, it is just as important to build social and professional relationships. There is a lot of truth to the old adage, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.”  Another, and perhaps even more precise version of this phrase however is “It’s not who you know, but who knows you.”

 Every concert, festival, masterclass, competition, lesson, rehearsal, and social gathering is an opportunity to meet someone and learn something new. Do not simply attend an event, perform, and leave immediately afterward. Introduce yourself to other musicians, speak with teachers and presenters, thank the people who organize concerts, and take a genuine interest in the work of your colleagues. When you meet someone whose work interests you, follow up with a short, courteous message. Connect professionally on social media, congratulate colleagues on their achievements, attend their performances when possible, and stay in touch without contacting people only when you need something. Musicians should also seek out opportunities to perform in community venues, participate in festivals, collaborate with singers and instrumentalists, and volunteer for projects that introduce them to new audiences and professional circles. Carry business cards if they are useful in your environment, keep a concise biography and a good performance video readily available, and learn how to introduce yourself and describe your work clearly. Never underestimate the importance of kindness, reliability, punctuality, and gratitude. Your reputation is built not only on how you play, but also on how you treat people, and how consistently you fulfill your commitments.