Lessons from a Street-Wise Professor: What You Won't Learn at Most Music Schools

The professional music world . . . it's tough out there! Yet musicians manage to survive and even thrive in this competitive environment. And you can too-but in addition to superior musicianship, you'll need information and skills that you can't learn in the practice room. Lessons from a Street-Wise Professor sheds light on what every successful musician knows but most music schools don't teach-that a musician, regardless of instrument or specialty, is a small business and with that comes the need for entrepreneurial savvy. Drawing on decades of experience as a professional musician and educator, Dr. Ramon Ricker of the Eastman School of Music offers indispensible insights into this often overlooked but crucial aspect of a musician's education. Among the many practical skills you'll learn are: • developing an entrepreneurial mindset • understanding your musical marketplace • separating yourself from the pack • navigating professional relationships • maintaining your artistic integrity while striving for financial success Also included are inspiring stories from musicians who found their own paths to success. Perfect for music students just entering the professional world or for anyone considering a career in music-and a helpful read for non-musicians and old pros, too!

News Release: Lessons From A Street-Wise Professor was an Award-Winning Finalist in the Business: Entrepreneurship and Small Business category of The USA "Best Books 2011" Awards, sponsored by USA Book News. (There was no music category.)

". . . . Ray's Lessons has more wisdom per pound than I've ever read in a book about the business of music."  Jeff Beal--Emmy award winning composer     

". . . . This book is a must for anyone having anything to do with the music scene, or for that matter, any kind of creative endeavor in the arts."  Bob Mintzer--Grammy winning saxophonist, composer, and member of the Yellowjackets

". . . . What an important, informative and wonderful book: Lessons From a Street-Wise Professor. I am recommending it to all my students! . . . and a must read for all graduating music students too!!!"   Justin DiCioccio--Assistant Dean and Chair of the Jazz DepartmentManhattan School of Music 

". . . . Ray has refined a lifetime of wisdom learned through experience, to share it with others who may just be getting started in their musical journeys."    Jamal Rossi--Executive Associate Dean, Eastman School of Music