Where I work for my day job
As far as being an aspiring commercial participant of the music industry reluctantly accepting that one has to get a day job in order to survive, this is not too bad a compromise:
Photos of where I work during the day.
I work only 25 hours a week so I get ample time to keep other creative projects going at home. The general plan is to eventually make my creative work my main job, but while I’m gathering resources and experience working at UNE is gentle compared to many other jobs I’ve had and what could be had. At any rate, I’ve learned many interesting skills regarding analogue equipments: for example mixers, excellent microphones, reel-tape player and recorders. I get to train my ears every day.
Wage jobs are certainly not something I recommend to people for following their true dreams and aspirations. But when you are starting with nothing, no capital, few skills, in a limiting location then it may be best to choose a line of work that will help you both skill-up and not make your life a misery in the process. This can be hard, but opportunities are out there if you look. I have no certificate or degree in audio engineering (I do have a Arts/Teaching Degree though). To the contrary I did a large amount of volunteer production and presenting work with 2Bob Radio and I did song production at home for years. Those experiences gave me eligibility for applying for the job I have now. I’d much rather work here than deny my interests by working as something like a high school teacher, or as a general dog’s body.
Now I’ve got time and money: alternatively I can move-up or get out. Obviously I prefer to get out in a sustainable way. I must admit it has taken me a while to realise just what the next step may be in terms best following my creative aspirations – but now I do. Next year you will see those steps being taken…
