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Can
The AFM Help Me Get More Work?
As per Article 5 Section 40 of the AFM Bylaws, all Locals are
required to "actively participate in an employment referral or
booking program". Most Local programs are now in place and are
receiving calls from potential employers of musicians. Because
of the efforts by these Locals, requests for soloists and groups
are sure to increase.
If you haven't already benefited from these programs; now is the
time to get yourself or your group involved. Previous issues of
I.M. (International Musician) listed some very important things
the Locals need from you to help promote and SELL your musical
talents. Here they are again with a few updates.
(1) An audio cassette tape or C.D. The potential buyer may want
to hear the sound of your act. This doesn't have to be a studio
"master" to be effective. It should reflect your "live" sound
as closely as possible. Remember to feature five or six selections
that represents what you really do well. With the advent of low
cost CDR's (Compact Disk Recorders) it is now possible to produce
a very small quantity of CD's at a very reasonable price.
(2) A video cassette. This can be a real "plus"! Again, this doesn't
have to be "pro" product. Most of you probably own a video camera,
know someone who does, or can rent one very inexpensively. Keep
it short and cover a little bit of each of your strongest points.
(3) Song Lists. Purchasers want to know the variety and styles
you cover. Use standard 8 1/2" X 11" paper and make it clean and
easy to read. If your Local has the capability to FAX documents
directly from their computer, you should also consider providing
this information in a compatible data format.
(4) A press release. Describe who's in the band, what instruments
they play and the style of music that you present. A separate
page could feature excerpts/quotes from favorable reviews or clippings
of ads you may have been featured in. You could also include a
few references if you wish. As mentioned above, include this in
data format if applicable.
(5) A photo or poster. You've all heard that a "picture is worth
a thousand words". It's TRUE. Spend some time with this one and
come up with an idea that expresses an "image" of who you are
and what you do. If you've got any of this in a .GIF or .JPG format,
pass it on to your Local's designated in house computer nerd!
The AFM and many
of its Locals are in the process of or are already involved in
that vast new world known as Cyberspace. If your Local is involved
in any electronic publishing or is promoting your talent on their
World Wide Web site, be sure to contact them to inquire about
what format they prefer in which to receive the information.
One final point............Remember to help your fellow AFM members
and your Local in its efforts. Should you be offered employment
or become aware of a potential gig that you are unable to do,
consider passing on the lead to your Local's referral department.
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