Sunday Morning

So how does one build a career in folk music in Canada? Interesting question. There are of course business models around for all types of music. Get gigs, get publicity, get played, record CD's, win awards, create a buzz. There are lots and lots of ways to do all of these things. I've been a performer for almost 10 years. But it's been pretty much part time with a few longer stints for touring and such when I took vacation. I have won a few awards and recorded several CD's but I've never had to make it my primary living.

I can't compete with the younger set. I don't have the stamina to road hog for months and months at a time. I'm not special in any particular way. Of course I write good songs, I play guitar well and I can tell pretty good stories on stage. But are these things enough?

The first thing is to get connected. In any way I can. Find out where the musicians are, find out who's doing music. See if I can hook up with venues that allow softer acoustic music and storytelling. Connect with songwriters. That seems like a lot of work, but I think it's essential to begin. I'm not looking for the ones who can help me. I'm looking for the places I can be seen.

It's a lot harder to do that when I won't play in a bar, and I'm not so good in a coffeehouse. And nobody knows who I am.

Stay tuned.....