What does it take to be a successful musician? And what’s considered success in music?
I think success is very subjective – so for me it’s always been making a living by making music. Not an extravagant living, just enough to get by and get to do what I love day in and day out – and it’s worked! As time has gone on, it’s become more refined in what I consider success, i.e how I make my living. I’ve also added the balance of playing with helping others follow their dreams. When I know I’ve helped someone else, that is a moment of success for me.
What are your dreams in your musical career?
To keep creating music with other musicians worldwide who want to share their story. Also to help others to do more of what they love and earn a living doing so. To me, that is winning in life!
Do you have a daily regimen in music learning?
Yes, very much so. When I’m learning songs I take these steps: I listen actively to the music and notice what my parts are. I write out a chart – sometimes it’s detailed, others more vague depending on the job/expectations. I play along to the song whilst reading the chart. I keep playing along until I no longer need the chart. I record myself playing to the song. I listen back. I notice anything that doesn’t sound right/good and adjust. I keep recording and listening back until I’m happy. I do this for every song I ever learn (time permitting of course)
What’s your typical professional day like?
Every day is different for me. Most recently due to Covid stricken situation, the majority of my work is from my remote recording studio. So a typical day will be: 7am wake up, breakfast, coffee, and chat with my husband 9 am go for a walk or workout 11am go into the studio to work on my businesses (EmilyDrums.com, RemoteRecordingBusiness.com, DrumStemClub.com, AdrummersGuideTo.com) 1pm Lunch 2pm Remote Studio Session 4pm Answer Any urgent emails 5pm clock off for the evening and chill
