Q+A with Grammy-Winning Third Coast Percussion

In the first issue of INNOVATE. MUSIC. LEAD., a new magazine published by the Paul R. Judy Center for Innovation and Research, we talked with Third Coast Percussion about their Grammy win, their plans for the future, and their advice for younger musicians.  Below is a excerpt from the Q&A. Click here to read the full issue of INNOVATE. LEAD. MUSIC. (Third Coast Q+A begins on pg. 9).

PRJ Center: What advice do you have for younger musicians who want to start their own ensemble?

Third Coast Percussion: So much! Our mantra is, “have a plan, be flexible.” Always work to be as prepared as you can for every opportunity, but be adaptable, because inevitably something won’t go according to plan. Be organized, be professional, and be a pleasure to work with.

Whatever you’re really passionate about doing, get started right now, because it’ll take time to get things going and figure out where you’re headed, much less make any money from it. And choose your own model; you don’t have to do things the way Third Coast Percussion does it or anyone else does it. You have to decide what’s most important to you and how to structure your endeavor to make it work for you.

Remember it’s all about the art. The administrative work can be daunting and take a lot of energy and time, but it’s all there to support the art. So make sure you’re doing work you really believe in.

Lastly, remember that there are a lot of people out there who love the arts and want to see them flourish! Our ensemble’s success owes a lot to friendly musicians and non-profit administrators who were willing to sit down for a coffee and give advice, arts supporters who were willing to make a donation to support our work, and presenters who were willing to take a risk. Share your excitement about what you’re doing and ask people for their thoughts.