McNally Smith College of Music

Getting Involved:

• Make friends with a local band, offer to sell their merchandise, or haul gear. Remember, not all jobs are glamorous, but they are all important, and everyone started somewhere.
• Street team for a band or venue, post flyers, promote shows, etc. The leg-work is normally the part people need help with, and it can be the most rewarding.
• Blog! The internet allows anyone and everyone to be a music critic. Start your own blog, review CD’s and performances. - Blogger -Wordpress - HowWasTheShow.com
• Design posters and flyers to promote performances (high school events, musicals, plays, etc). You don’t always have to print everything you design, save money and post it up online.
• Write Arts & Entertainment articles for your high school newspaper.

Networking:

• Social Networking, there are so many places to meet like-minded people. Myspace! Facebook! Last.fm! Second Life!
• Craigslist lists musicians looking for other musicians.
• Join a local music organization like the MMA or DEMO.
• Check out shows at all-ages venues in your area. Meet the musicians, bookers, and sound engineers.

Live Sound Opportunities:

• High school plays/music performances/concerts
• Religious Services
• Community Centers
• High school Audio-Visual clubs/organizations

Performing Opportunities:

• Open Mic/Poetry Slam nights
• Join your high school orchestra/band
• Participate in community festivals/Battle of the Bands
• Join a church or community choir
• Take a private lesson
• Attend musical workshops in your area
• Enter songwriting contests like the John Lennon Songwriting Contest or The Great American Song Contest

Recording & Music Technology:

- Free Software Downloads:

• Fruity Loops
• Garageband (comes free with all new Macs)
• Audacity
• Reaper

- Software for Purchase:

• Cakewalk LE
• Pro-Tools Mbox 2 Micro
• Cubase

To download this piece please visit the McNally Smith College of Music Admissions Department.

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