Health

Air: The Life Blood of Wind Instrumentalists and Singers

June 23, 2015

Whether you’re a wind instrumentalist or singer, you have probably heard the phrase “use your diaphragm” many times throughout the course of your career from teachers and fellow musicians. This instruction concerns the constant flow of air supported by the group of muscles that musicians and singers employ for optimal sound in their performances.

Protect Your Songs with Copyright

June 17, 2015

The songwriting process is rarely easy. Giving life to that creative spark is a process that can take countless hours, the behind-the-scenes toil never known to the audience that finally hears the son

6 Tips on Nailing That Orchestral Audition Recording

June 11, 2015

After your résumé has been processed, you will probably receive material detailing how an audition tape should be prepared. Often specifications are very detailed, and you should follow them to the letter. If there is any doubt, call the personnel manager, but don’t phone him or her with trivial questions about details that you may have overlooked on the instructions.

9 Tips for Healthy Outdoor Summer Gigs

May 28, 2015

After a long winter of indoor gigs and stuffy practice rooms, you’d jump on any chance to finally play outdoors. But, before you head outside to enjoy these fun opportunities, take a little time to consider how to stay healthy in the heat and sun. Here are nine things to consider:

Canadian Waivers and Taxation for Foreign Artists

May 28, 2015

Ignoring the taxation requirements of a foreign country can lead to unforeseen complications, as this letter illustrates:

Dentistry for Musicians

May 1, 2015

Your passion for playing your instrument or singing means that you practice every day, year after year. Then, suddenly, nothing feels right. Changes in sensation or “feel,” over-development of the muscles of the mouth.

United States Taxation for Foreign Artists

May 1, 2015

by Robert Baird, President Baird Artists Management (BAM!) The issue of United States Taxation for foreign artists came up in a recent letter: I have a band that is looking to play a corporate event in the US at the end of June. My accountant just informed me of the Central Withholding Agreement that could […]

Your Best Gig Could Be Your Next Gig

May 1, 2015

Over the past few columns I’ve talked about crazy, memorable, and terrible gigs. That’s life as a working musician. I appreciate all the letters, calls, and e-mails about out-of-the-ordinary playing jobs. They are too numerous to mention here, but I am retaining many of them for future columns.

How to Take Care of Your Eyes

April 28, 2015

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following article is a result of research conducted across a number of health-related Web sites. The AFM does not endorse any specific remedy for eye problems and urges members to consult a medical practitioner before deciding on a course of action. Eye problems are an often-overlooked health issue for professional musicians. The […]

Reset Glove Can Prevent Tendonitis or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

April 21, 2015

Every musician has certain muscle groups he or she uses repetitively. These muscles develop greater strength than their opposite muscles, and this unequal strengthening can lead to tightness and inflamed tendons. This effect is especially seen in the hands, and all musicians use their hands to play instruments. The key to preventing tendonitis or Carpal […]