AboutPamela Thomas Expertise Questions on Opera performance, repertoire, vocal technique, acting for opera. I have some 20 years experience in opera in both leading roles and chorus. I have sung with New York City Opera since 1981. I have studied voice in NYC for over 20 years and have also taught technique and coached singers in acting.
Expert: Pamela Thomas Date: 7/16/2008 Subject: On the road again
Question Say I'm a soprano and about to move to NYC to pursue an opera career. Since opera singers travel a lot, what are some good jobs to support myself when I don't have a gig that doesn't require me to well, be there all the time? A typical 9-5 job would not work out (right?) because of the traveling and auditions, etc. So is there any good jobs one can do "on the road"?
Answer Hi Lena,
This is always the key question - how to survive while you are pursuing a singing career!
Here are some of the jobs I know people do:
1. If you have Word/Excel skills - you can try to temp. Best is to get a steady temp gig - that way you might get some flexibility with your schedule from your employer to make auditions, etc. This might be a bit tough in the current market - but generally works well.
2. Bartending or waitressing... hard jobs but flexible.
3. Getting a steady church job - not enough to live on - but helps.
4. Teaching privately - takes time to build up a studio - but many do this.
5. Teaching English as a second language. A friend just took a course and is starting this - looks promising.
6. Substitute teaching (if you have your teaching certificate).
7. You can be creative and do something on the internet. Not sure what - start your own business - proofreading, editing, advice.. whatever... then you can do that on the road as well!
Unfortunately it's hard to work and pursue the career - and you may have to take a 9-5 job for a while - if your boss likes you they might be flexible with hours - but it's very hard.
I'm sorry I can't be more helpful but maybe something will click.
