Matthew's Story : Musician

Matthew before practice with his band mates.

How about an introduction?

Well, my name is Matthew Freeman, and I'm a musician.

How did you get into music as a career choice?

I guess I got started in high school by joining the marching band program. From there I got into the jazz band where I learned to play on a drum set as well as started learning keyboards and some brass.

What kind of training do you have?

I think I already kinda answered that, but the beauty of music, or any art form really, is outside of some natural talent there are plenty of ways to learn the skills you need to be successful. As far as music there tends to be three main ways people learn. There's the self taught, the Internet makes this a lot easier. There's how I started out which was through a school program. Finally, there are private lessons, the most expensive of the options but worth every penny if you find the right tutor.

What do you like about it?

What's not to like? I get to look however I choose, make my own schedule, be creative, and for those who like to be the center of attention, like yours truly, I get to be on stage. Oh, and if you're playing bars, clubs, or catered gigs, you get free or discounted food and liquor, always a good thing.

What are the downsides, if any, to your line of work?

As with any creative or artistic job you have to find someone to buy what your selling. This can be difficult to do in some areas and for certain personality types. Also unless you are phenomenally talented, playing non melodic instruments (non-keyboard percussion, bass, low brass) you are usually playing in a group. While I would never say being in a band is worse than playing solo, it does add complications.

How do you combat the lack of paying work?

Finding someone to pay you to play quite simply is leg work. Make some decent recordings of you or your band playing and start talking to places you know have live music. There is another option and that's street performance. Before you take that route check your local laws. I'd hate for your readers to get arrested for something they didn't know was illegal. As far as groups being complicated, communication is key. If you and your band mates aren't on the same page then things will never mesh and the audience can always tell if you aren't feeling it.

Describe your typical work day for me:

That's kind of a complicated question. There are several different "typical" days for me, there are practice days, performance days, and then there's promotion days. Practice days are spent building chops, developing new techniques, and meeting with band mates to run through finished material and creating new songs. Performance days are full of ritual and habits, each musician is different. For me, gear is packed the night before, if I'm not out of town I go to my favorite music shop and chat with the owner and buy a new pair of sticks (sometimes several). I usually show up to the venue an hour early and eat (Yay discounted food!) then get my gear set up, listen to music, warm up, get hyped with the band, then SHOW TIME! Promotion days are when I will make sure websites, blogs, and Facebook pages are up to date. Go to venues and talk to other bands about upcoming shows.

Is this your only job?

No, I'm also a carpenter.

What resources would you recommend to a new person getting into this line of work (books, websites, classes, etc)?

Well as your readers are well aware, you can learn a lot on the Internet. Your local music store is also a great source of information and advice on books, classes and tutors. I really suggest find a locally owned shop, they appreciate loyalty more than the national chains and usually more plugged into venues and good tutors. As far as private tutors are concerned, I've used them from time to time to learn a particularly difficult style or technique. Look for someone who you are compatible with. Everyone learns different, so find someone who teaches to your needs. Also it's not a bad idea to check their credentials. If the tutor said he attended Julliard, ask to see the diploma (If I went I'd have that thing on prominent display).

Do you have a website, book, or portfolio you'd like to share with Alt Cash?

Unfortunately, not at the moment. I have a new project in the works and will update you when its ready.

I look forward to that. I'm always happy to do follow up interviews, especially if you end up famous.

The band during a performance, with Matthew on drums.