Today we take this platform and outlet as an opportunity to share in the common frustrations of this life choice we make to follow our calling as musicians and the almost cliche statements we hear far too often from the world around us. We try to give a voice of reason to this rhetoric, and some of the best responses we have heard to combat them.

“A creative life cannot be sustained by approval any more than it can be destroyed by criticism.” – Will Self

"Musicians On Call." Musicians On Call is a non-profit that brings live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities. They recruit and train volunteer musicians to perform for patients, providing entertainment and healing through music. While their primary focus is on bringing music to patients, they also offer opportunities for musicians to get involved and give back through their performances. Learn more at musiciansoncall.org for opportunities to give back in your community.

We may all play different styles, different instruments, and even have totally different markets, but one thing we all receive as artists is similar criticism. Often people think they're being funny or even caring by making some of these statements, and although I don’t think any of us really take this stuff too seriously, we are also entitled to discuss these crass statements and some tactical responses we can arm ourselves with on the battlefield.

** We know how valuable your time is, and we appreciate you spending this time with us and being a part of this community. It is our hope that you feel that sense of community here at musicians Tip Jar and help us spread the word to make us stronger together.