The Performing Artist's Handbook

Book excerpt: This handbook has all the facts to help classical musicians come to terms with the often-overlooked business details essential to progressing in their careers: Self-promotion pointers: resumes, photos, business letters, stationery/business cards, telephone techniques, brochures, audio/visual demo cassettes, personal appearance, mailing lists; Organizational techniques: debut recital planning, performance checklist, activity chart, expense log; Business tips: management, publicity, taxes, networking, union affiliations; Service address listings: state arts councils, regional arts councils, service organizations, advocacy groups, grants, foundations, and more. Along with the facts, established musicians share their experiences--both good and bad--they've had along the way to a successful career. When they started out, a handbook like this wasn't available. Now that it is, you can avoid saying what they said over and over: "If I'd only known!"