Canvas Rebel Interview

I was recently interviewed by CanvasRebel.com and wanted to share it with you. Here is a portion of the interview:

Hi Richard, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

A significant part of being prepared is knowing the repertoire (the actual musical selections) that are popular in the given region in which you will be performing. In my case, it was knowing the special pieces favored by many rooms and many room managers. Let us not forget that the room manager is listening to you perform your selections, as well. Know your material like you know your name. Whether it is “Send in the Clowns” or “Take the A Train,” perform it with authenticity and sincerity, even if you hate the piece. And then, learn how to change keys (for the next panel discussion…

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

The road to success and happiness as an artist is littered with the broken dreams and tears of those countless souls who have failed to keep one core concept in mind: Have multiple streams of income!! Investments, real estate, IRAS, side hustles, know your business and have great business chops. Invest in your retirement earlier rather than later.

You can read the full interview here.