Career as a session musician
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Roy Baker works as a session musician for many pop groups at gigs and in recording studios. His writing and playing skills have taken him around the world.
What instruments do you play?
I play bass guitar, keyboards and drums. It helps to be able to play a variety of instruments. Sometimes in a recording session I could be playing a number of instruments on a track, although not all at the same time.
Where do you play?
I play as a session musician at pop concerts and gigs around the world. I play a lot with bands in Germany.
What type of music do you compose?
Mainly R&B, gospel and soul. Most of my compositions concentrate on a strong beat and rhythm. Also, I write jingles for TV and for various local commercial radio stations.
How do you get your music played?
I work out my music using drums, guitar and keyboard, making notes as I go along. I then record it onto a tape using a multi-track recorder, which enables me to play the different parts on top of each other like layers to build up the final track. The tape is then sent to a variety of publishing and production companies who try to place the music with selected artists or with TV and radio shows.
How did you get into this job?
I grew up in a musical family, singing gospel music in church and trying out various musical instruments. After leaving school, I became involved with a variety of young music groups and bands, eventually deciding to turn professional and earn my living playing and composing music.
Do you work regular hours?
No. I work unusual hours depending upon the people I am working with. On some days, I may have to travel to rehearsals or to late night gigs. On others, I may be at home working on my music. I am usually working when most people are enjoying themselves in the evening.
What are the pros and cons of the job?
I get a lot of pleasure out of making music and even more satisfaction when people get enjoyment from my work. I meet a lot of interesting people and get to play with them as part of their backing group of musicians. The big disadvantage is the amount of time I have to spend away from my family.
What skills and qualities are needed for work as a session musicianmusician?
You must have musical talent – not just ability but something that develops naturally on which you can work. You must be hard working, determined and persistent in the face of disappointments and failure.
Roy's route
- GCSEs.
- Various music courses and examinations.
- Work at dance school.
- Work with local bands.
Roy's tips
- Study music theory to supplement your natural ability.
- Always be passionate about what you are doing.
Session musician related jobs
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- Music teacher
- Singer
- Stage manager
Salary of a session musician
- Session musicians are paid at a variety of rates negotiated by the Musician's Union.
- Hourly rates can vary enormously up to £500 a session.
- Minimum gig rates are set at around £60 for a three-hour engagement.
- Many musicians supplement their earnings from other work.
Getting in
- Formal study from GCSE/S level is recommended. This will enable you to learn the fundamentals of reading and writing music as well as playing instruments.
- There are a variety of NVQ/SVQs available at college and music schools and study can lead to the BTEC HND in rock and pop music.
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