What's a musician's portfolio + do you need one?
Ever feel like you're doing 593 things to make money as a musician? Maybe this is not dissimilar to you trying to juggle everything 😆
Teach, gig, work a p/t job, practice, create fulfilling artistic projects, take auditions, stay well... where's the AI to juggle all of this!? Sadly, no easy button exists, but there is a framework that can be helpful. I dare say... essential. It's (again!) something you don't work get in school, but is needed to step into the world with a plan. What is it?
➡️ Developing your professional materials, a.k.a portfolio
Having a simple foundation of these materials will make a HUGE difference when an application or opportunity comes up. It's a packet of physical, digital and personal items and skills that reflect your training and experience, but more importantly... our path and potential. Here's a process for creating one:
Step 1: Get your coordinates
For any aspiring musician, start where you are and with who you are. Stop chasing all the bright shiny things for a moment and pause to take stock of your skills. What are you known for? What would your ideal life look like if money wasn't an issue? What do you want to change, improve or impact? What do you need to make every day one of growth toward your goals?
Get clear on these questions and you'll have your coordinates, your GPS. It's where you are right now, IRL, not in some land of magical thinking!
Step 2: Get your materials organized
so they reflect you accurately, tells your story, and give people a sense of your possibilities. What people, you ask? These might be people you'll send an application to, a hiring committee, or they could be potential students, parents, or clients. They might be booking agents or LinkedIn viewers.
Step 3: Make your portfolio
This is where you get to tell your story! People often skip steps 1 and 2, plunging into cobbling together a quick resume or bio. Another mistake is that portfolio items list facts and achievements when in reality, it should describe your trajectory!
The Portfolio Checklist
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A list of your skills and competencies (you might be surprised)
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Resume and a c.v. (it's an art for sure!)
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Long and short bio
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Cover letters & proposals
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Artist statement and teaching philosophy
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Your digital presence (how do you show up!?) like socials, websites and media
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Your elevator pitch, interview, negotiation and presentation skills (all those in person characteristics that help you seal the deal!)
