As musicians, we are fortunate to live in a world where we are constantly inspired by others who do what we do. Athletes live in a similar world of good fortune. Having run my own business for many years, I’ve developed a level of admiration and inspiration for great business people and those who possess a great mind for business. In the world of constant change known as the music business, it is vital to look at ourselves as a small business no matter what our focus. Unfortunately, basic business principles and philosophies are not often discussed in the hallowed halls of our great music conservatories. Even as many music schools begin to add classes and seminars in entrepreneurship, most of these classes are taught by musicians, not always successful business people. It’s always advantageous to go directly to the source, in this case, great business people. Interestingly enough, the more virtuosi of commerce I am fortunate enough to intersect with, the more I discover these exceptional individuals often share a passion for music.
CEO Ben Baldanza w/the Michael Davis trombone by Shires
This summer, a fortuitous sequence of events took place here at Hip-Bone Music. I received an order for some of my arrangements from a gentleman named Ben Baldanza. After exchanging a few e-mails, I learned that Ben had a passion for the trombone that was equal, if not greater, to my own. I also learned that he had reached the pinnacle of business success and is the CEO of Spirit Airlines. Over the course of a few more e-mails, Ben decided to purchase the Michael Davis trombone by Shires, as well as many of the other books, CDs and arrangements in the Hip-Bone Music catalog. For that, I am extremely grateful. Further, I am grateful to have met a gentleman whose passion for business and music can influence what I do in a very positive and purposeful way. I would like to think my music and my trombone will have a positive impact on his life as well.
I’m looking forward to getting to know Ben better in the months and years to come, both musically and as a business person. When you meet someone with Ben’s level of passion and intellect, good things invariably happen. As we continually strive to achieve greater success as musicians, take a look around your own world and notice the success stories outside your own area of expertise. Figure out what those individuals and companies have done to achieve greatness and how it can help you as you strive for greatness. You’ll be shocked by how much common ground there is between everyone who achieves success and has passion for what they do.
In the meantime, I’m excited to announce that in 2013, Hip-Bone Music will start to include select interviews with outstanding business people in our bone2pick monthly interview series. I’m pumped about it. I believe it will become an invaluable resource for music students and professionals alike. First up, Mr. Ben Baldanza!