Being a musician in the US, there are always opportunities to improve your business game. There are college degrees in music industry, online courses, the occasional workshop, and personal coaching. It is available to everyone… as long as you have the money and the time to invest. Personally, I attended a couple of workshops presented by Tim Sweeney. I learned a lot from him, but I also met some pretty wonderful artists that I never would have met otherwise. I still have a few of those connections today. I love seeing how they are following their dreams and making wonderful careers for themselves.
Living in Denmark, the business scene is different from the US. Booking gigs requires press materials in different languages and a whole different perspective. I was told yesterday that American bios have to be completely revamped in order to be interesting to the European market. Apparently, we Americans write far too much about things that aren’t particularly important.
I digress.
Fortunately, I have been selected to participate in this year’s Danish Vibes program. This is a mentorship program focused on building a network between bands in Denmark and the German market. How cool is that?! We are mentored throughout the year and finish up with a showcase in Hamburg. If all goes well, you’ll be seeing more of us in Germany over the coming years.
One of the coolest parts of the whole thing is that I get to meet and interact with four other talented bands. We all do something different, but the level is extremely high. I’m already inspired by seeing and hearing how these folks play, think, and love their work. I look forward to getting to know them better over the course of the year.
I think you’d like to meet them too. Check out the following videos and write your comments below. I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you want to read more about them, all their info can be found on the Danish Vibes website.
Mames Babegenush
Klezmer meets Scandinavia
KutiMangoes
afro-beat/souljazz party band
Anna Scharling
singer-songwriter
Hess is More
Danish Jazz on a whole other plane