AIM’s Backstage Pass

Welcome to AIM’s Backstage Pass! The Australian Institute of Music are commited to giving you a behind the scenes look in the music industry today. Find out what each of these people do day-to-day in their jobs, why they work in the music industry and you can also ask them questions for them to answer. We hope this section inspires you to work in the music industry and find out a bit more about those people behind the scenes.

If we did not visit your school yet you are still keen to see what we are teaching in the Music Industry Workshop, please download the Workbook for further information.

If you have any questions or would like more information on the Australian Institute of Music please contact enquiries@aim.edu.au or call (02) 9219 5444.

If you have any questions please contact frances@schooltoursaustralia.com.au

10 Step Guide to the Music Industry

As the annual Rock the Schools Tour powered by A Brand Called Ed ROCKS schools around Australia, we thought we would give you a 10 step guide to the music industry …..

Here are some things you probably didn’t know about the music industry. With the advent of things like the internet and MySpace getting your self “out there” is very different to the way things were 15 years ago. In this modern world we live in you need to be equipped with the latest information and know-how to keep up with this ever-changing scene.

Here is a 10 step guide to the music industry!

1. Education
Natural talent can get you so far but getting an education in music will expand your skill sets, knowledge of the industry and equip you with the skills necessary to make it in the music industry

2. Practise Practise Practise

Ensure that you are the best you can be. You will gain the respect of others in the industry, including audiences, if they know you are giving it your best shot.

3. Networking

Get to know as many people as you can by meeting and talking with industry people both in person and online. Have a MySpace / Facebook site and build your online audience. Attend gigs and meet other musicians. These contacts will bring you opportunities and work in the music industry.

4. Work Experience
Offer to do work experience at a company who do the kind of work you want to do. Volunteer at festivals and events. You will gain invaluable insights and contacts this way.

5. Don’t Give Up
Even if you don’t succeed in your first attempts to make it in the music industry, never give up. Persistence is the key. Keep knocking on doors, keep putting yourself out there.

6. Learn from Others

Go to as many gigs as you can. Check out what others are doing and how they are doing it. It’s a good way to find out the do’s and dont’s of performing.

7. Record a Demo

You never know when an opportunity might present itself to pass on your music to someone in the industry. Self promotion is very important. Get a demo together and use this demo to start getting yourself gigs.

8. Be Professional

It’s all fun and games when you’re jamming in the garage but be prepared to take it seriously when the time comes. If you’re not serious about your music, no one else will take you seriously. Always act in a professional manner, how you act is a reflection on your band and your music.

9. Music is Business

It is so important to learn about the industry you are in. You need to be business savvy and understand that you and your image are a product.

10. Be Confident

Confidence is the key. In this industry you have to believe in what you are doing so others will too. The more confident you are, the more chances you are likely to take and the further you will go.