Are Residencies for Artists and Musicians Worthwhile.

Following a career as a musician and performance artist can be challenging with very few ever making enough income to support themselves. Taking up a residency position can be an alternative way to earn an income from their chosen career and passion but what are the key considerations when pursuing a residency.

A residency for musicians can come in many forms and range from performing in hotel resorts, private members clubs, cruise ships to up market bars for example. A residency can be hard to find but they do exist just about anywhere in the world and can potentially provide a secure long-term career for musicians. What are the factors that my influence a musician's decision to pickup a residency somewhere or not.

Content and Material. 
It is not unusual for venues to dictate content to musicians, mostly cover versions of popular music and in some cases accept customer requests. This means that residency musicians must be versatile with their abilities. In rare occasions musicians may be permitted to perform their own material but this will invariably form a small part of an overall performance. Conversely a residency does allow musicians to work scheduled hours giving them plenty of free time to pursue creation of their own material.

Financial Considerations. 
Taking up a residency may offer some financial security if it is in the form of a contract of employment with stated salary and benefits for example. It is more likely that a residency is offered on a temporary contract basis for a specified time period which is particularly true for hotels and resorts which only require resident musicians during their busy seasons. This flexibility does give the musician an opportunity to perform on tours or as session musicians when not in residency. Many high-end residency opportunities also off additional benefits of free accommodation and meals which can make up for a low paying position. 

Working Hours Commitment. 
A residency position can be full time or a fixed contract period but working conditions can be quite strict. Residency musicians may be contracted to work long unsocial hours with a commitment being anything from a week to a year for example. This can make it difficult to balance the musician's other commitments if they regularly go on tour or work in recording studios as sessions musicians. 

Career and Networking. 
Securing a residency can look good on a resume as it demonstrates the musician's reliability and consistency of performance. References from previous employers can help to reinforce the various qualities and abilities of the musician. A high-end venue can present opportunities for resident musicians to network with high-net-worth individuals, celebrities, or industry professionals. On occasions residency work may lead to private bookings, higher-tier gigs, or international referrals. 

Other considerations. 
With many musician's residencies available globally this work offers opportunities for travel and time in foreign and exotic locations which will appeal to some. However, high-end residency positions may not suit all musicians as venues often put an emphasis on professional mage, punctuality and demeanor. Some venues may also have strict policies on off-stage behaviour and social media restrictions. With a balance of advantages and disadvantages a musician residency position may be a possible route for those seeking a financially secure career doing what they are passionate about.

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