Paying the Orchestra
Wed, 26 Dec 2007, 05:49 pmfunklizard88828 posts in thread
Paying the Orchestra
Wed, 26 Dec 2007, 05:49 pmJust wondering what opinions are out there in regard to the payment (or lack of) for orchestra/band members involved in semi-professional, amateur and community productions of works of music theatre?
In particular I am interested in whether others think there is cause for distinction to be made between different levels of instrumental ability (particularly within a single production - ie. student or 'formally untrained' musicians being paid differently [or not at all] in comparison to professional musicians brought in to 'boost ranks' or cover more difficult parts - as for example happens in school productions)?
And whether distinction can be made by instrument? (as in my experience finding reliable string, harp, oboe, bassoon and 'woodwind' [multi-instrumental] players is quite difficult without serious funding).
If one member of the orchestra is paid, do all the musicians deserve to be paid?
If the Music Director is paid, should the musicians also be paid?
All relevant thoughts, anecdotes, experiences, and opinions are welcome.
more musicians than you can wave a stick at...
Thu, 27 Dec 2007, 06:04 pmWalter Plinge
There are a lot of musicians out there who play for the love of it.
Heck, if you even think briefly about the number of kids who learn music and play in bands through to year 12 and then go on to other things, (like eaning money from a "real job") there's got to be even more who developed a love for it but couldn't commit to a community band every week for a whole year, but a show, they're out there - problem is, how do you find them??
On the other side of the discussion, went to see a show recently, heard the band(orchestra really) was "professional" but it was the most hideous bit of music I had heard in long time - when from the opening chord it was obvious they hadn't even tuned up correctly, I wondered what they were being paid for. thank god there was a well stocked bar! tempo fluctuations, mis-timed entries (I'll stop now) Next show with an orchestra ("amatuer") was amazing. Shows what a difference the MD makes rather than the money.