What to do with your down time
Posted by scottfrein on August 31, 2008
The economy is in the dumps, times are tough all over and it’s no different for musicians. I haven’t gigged as much this year as I did last year. The gigs are just fewer and farther between. So what to do with your down time? You could drive yourself crazy trying to scare up a gig or you may turn into a lethargic lump on the couch while waiting for the phone to ring. Here are a few ideas to fill the time between gigs and keep yourself sane.
Write some songs
If you have any unfinished tunes or just have a few ideas banging around, this is a good time to work on them. If you keep yourself busy with music, you’ll find yourself musically ready when the next gig comes.
Jam with some new people
Try to get a few jams in with people you don’t normally play with. This could be a good opportunity to sharpen your chops by challenging yourself.
Play at an open mic night
Sure we all like to get paid to play but doing an open mic night might be good for you. You can keep yourself in gigging shape and the exposure could lead to more paying gigs.
Maintain your gear
I know this is something you should do anyway’s but the down time may allow you to perform (or have someone perform) some more in depth repairs that may need to be done. Re-tubing and biasing and Re-fret’s usually require a little more attention and time. This is a sure way to be ready to rock when the next gig comes up.
Spend some time with your family
The lack of gigs should allow you to spend some real quality time with your family. If you have kids you should cherish this time. It doesn’t come around again.
Scott
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