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.
Musicians
Fri, 28 Dec 2007, 02:02 pmThis is a can of worms. I have met a lot of people who claim to be professional musicians who certainly do not fit my definition. I too have sat in theatres where the band sounds as though they haven't even tuned together and found later that they have all been paid, often MEAA call out fees.
If as a musician you want to be paid as a professional you must sight read competently. That is reproduce the music as written, tunefully, on minimal rehearsal, usually just one. If you cannot do that you are not a professional musician.
I now expect to find out how many musicians regularly use this site.
Is that all there is? Well if that's all there is my friend, then let's keep dancing.
www.tonymoore.id.au