|
|
| Career Profiles > Ben Pringle |
 |
Title(s): Musician, Teacher, Writer
Favourite book: Jacob Bronowski - 'The Ascent of Man'
Favourite film: Cinema Paradiso
Favourite CD: Oscar Peterson - 'Night Train'
Current work: Teaching, performing and composing music
|
|
How did you get started?
I've been playing in and running bands since my mid 20's. The T.V. writing came about through contacts I had in the industry who got me started with first jobs.
Then the teaching came about through a music shop I worked in part-time, the professional work I had done by then helped to 'qualify me' for the job!
Where did you do your training?
Musically, I'm self-taught with some classical training. On the business side, I did a degree in Business Studies in Nottingham and my professional teacher training is ongoing.
What does the course you teach involve?
On the Contemporary Popular Music course at Leicester College (the course is also run at other colleges around the country), students learn a range of skills to help them get a better start in the music industry. These skills include practical musicianship, composition, instrumental lessons, music history and business and technology. In addition students are encouraged to form bands, perform at special college nights at local venues and compete in band competitions. However I think the best reason for joining is the chance to interact with other like-minded young people who may become musical soul partners in your career.
What is your band called and how do you get work for your band?
The band is called 'Jazz Ambience' and it gets most of its work through a combination of different types of promotion. This ranges from more formal types including our website and Yellow pages through to less formal such as word of mouth, building relationships with venues and via friends and colleagues.
What is it like to be self-employed?
Running a business at the self-employment level is about getting enough work to keep going. It's a good idea to have a spread of different income streams, some more dependable but maybe low return, some more risky but hopefully high return. A good accountant also helps.
What is the best thing about your work?
The freedom to do what I do best, when I like, and get paid for it.
What do you like least about your work?
Financial unpredictability.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to do this type of work?
Learn and perfect your art then have faith in what you do.
|
|
|
 |
Get the 2009 Guide now
A full-colour publication packed with essential performing
arts information, advice and institution course listings. Get your personal
copy now... [more]
|
|
Free Info Request
Request FREE information from dozens of leading UK performing arts training
providers and organisations with the click of a mouse!
CLICK HERE |
|
|
|
