Is Talent Enough?
"Eric, you're talented. But, talent is not enough"
Those words have defined who I am and how I wanted to be portrayed for the last 8 years.
Nowadays it's important to know that playing the violin very well isn't enough to have a sustainable music career.
Here are some of the things I think about as a violinist:
Building Relationships
For musicians, building relationships are something outside the practice room that we need to get comfortable knowing how to do. We practice countless hours perfecting our craft, and it would be a shame if we don't get to share the same passion as other musicians! Building relationships allow you to collaborate with people you may never expect.
Understanding Your Audience
As co-artistic director of the Chicago Chamber Music Project, my colleagues and I are always trying to learn the needs of our audiences. People want different things and it's up to us as artists to understand what they want! Researching trends and talking to audience members are only a couple of simple ways for your audience to attend concerts.
Making Mistakes
This point is the most important one of all. Classical musicians work hard every day and face rejection countless times in the course of their careers. What's important is that a musician needs to be comfortable with being rejected because rejection gives room for growth. A musician's goal is to grow every time they pick up their instrument.
I hope that these quick tips give you ideas to create a fearless musical entrepreneur mindset.
Eric Mrugala, violinist
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