Resources

Kara Kesselring

Beyond paying the bills, what makes a successful music career?

Many people have different definitions of what makes a successful music career. One obvious answer is whether one can sustain themselves financially on their earnings as a musician. When I moved to Chicago in 1995 after completing a classical voice degree from the University of Iowa, I gave myself a three year deadline: If I couldn’t make a living as a musician, then it wasn’t meant to be and I’d try something else. more...


Selected Articles

Making the Most of Professional Organizations

The creative professions tend to attract individuals with independent natures. Yet writers have affiliated with International PEN since 1921, and composers with the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) since 1914. The College Art Association (CAA) came into existence in 1911 as a professional organization for both art historians and artists, in particular those who teach at the college level. What are the benefits to artists of belonging to an organization like CAA?

Selected Chicago-City Links

Ear Love
Local manufacturer and retailer of hi-fidelity hearing protection. Designed to reduce overall sound level while preserving sound quality.
Girls Rock! Chicago
Dedicated to fostering girls’ creative expression, positive self-esteem and community awareness through rock music and a one-week summer camp program.
University of Illinois at Chicago: The Health in the Arts Program
Artists' health clinic that specializes in evaluating, treating and preventing work-related disorders in the arts. Patients can usually be seen regardless of their insurance coverage or ability to pay.

Selected National/International Links

American Federation of Musicians: Health Issues
Links to some of the industry related health issues and where to seek help. Union oriented.
Europe Jazz Network
Nonprofit association of promoters, musicians' associations, artistic directors, and consultants of music programs in Europe. Works mainly in jazz and improvised music. Assists musicians with touring and festivals.
Fractured Atlas
Insurance, funding and resource Website for artists in all disciplines.
Great American Song Contest
National Yearly Song competition. One of the largest song contests. Categories for different genres.

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