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.
I stand by my point.
Fri, 11 Jan 2008, 02:38 pmI suspect that you didn;t read the thread properly. We are talking about paying the musicians who play in pit bands for Musicals.
Also these days I wouldn't write off rock musicians skills. A great many young musicians working in the rock field are talented and well trained. It is no longer a matter of learning six chords on a guitar and hiring session players to record the albums. (Unless you intend to appear on Idol.)
If you intend to make a living as a musician you need to sight read competemtly on at least your principal instrument and frankly it is preferable if you can do the same on at least one other.
Is that all there is? Well if that's all there is my friend, then let's keep dancing.
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