26 May Building a Career on Integrity
As musicians we have been given great gifts that we share with the world – by teaching, performing, composing, or writing. But without integrity or character, our musical talents and gifts don’t mean as much. Talent alone will only take you so far in your career.
I have had the honor of working with musicians, singers and producers in various settings and stages of their careers. The one thing that always stands out to me – far above talent – is the work ethic and integrity of the individual. The artists that put in the hard work of practicing their instrument, are dependable and show up on time and the artists that are truly genuine and trustworthy not only go far, but they experience longevity and a greater level of success throughout their career. They carry a weight of professionalism and kindness with them.
So what is integrity?
The Cambridge Dictionary′s first definition of the word ″integrity″ is ″the quality of being honest.” It is, in my opinion, not only the most important pillar of character but also the most important virtue for a musician or performer. In the book Impact with Integrity: Repair the World Without Breaking Yourself, writer Becky Margiotta says, “when talking about integrity, we are talking about being a whole person, an integrated person, with all our different parts working well and delivering the functions that they were designed to deliver.”
When you are a musician with integrity, you are a person that people can trust. You are someone that can be depended upon to do what you say you are going to do. That is where the “completeness” ties into the definition. Here are some ways musicians especially can embody integrity.
Always Follow Through
If you say you are going to do something, do it! If you commit to band practice or a rehearsal during the most anticipated IPL game of the year, then you need to be at band practice. Your name is connected to your actions. Every time you do not deliver on your word, you decrease your dependability. This is simple stuff, but it is amazing how often we forget how important it is. The best policy to get good at follow-through is to cut back on commitments. When you free up your life of unnecessary empty promises, you can be present for the events and people that matter.
Develop a community
Don’t make difficult decisions alone. You receive counsel, take the long- term view and make sure that decisions take into account everyone that decision impacts. Work to create a culture of trust by developing an environment that will not test the personal integrity of your students, band or other colleagues. Together try and create a trusting and supportive community where ideas and performances are shared freely and easily. You hire integrity and you promote those who show an ability to be trusted. Fill your musical lives with those colleagues and students who are trustworthy. Share ideas with them, learn from them, listen to them, interact with them, and encourage them to grow in their professional competencies.
Use your influence wisely
Live like you’re being watched. You make sure your integrity is passed along to future generations through your example. As musicians we are always being watched or listened to in one way or another. Use your platform wisely, not carelessly. Stick up for people and issues that matter, but always do it with kindness.
Admit when you’ve failed
There will be moments when you will not be able to do what you said you would and it is ok. It is better to confess to a failure than not acknowledging it. We all make mistakes, so trust that people will understand that.
Just as we practice every day to maintain a high level of artistic talent, we need to practice implementing integrity every day. Trust equals value. If you make it easy on everyone by being an upstanding individual, then you can expect the bonus nod of approval more often than not.
By Zachary Ray
About Zachary Ray:
Zachary Ray developed a passion for music and singing at a young age. That passion for music lead him to study vocal performance and music business at Berklee College of Music.
Zachary sees music as a tool that can be used to bring transformation and healing for people around the world. For 12 years, he’s been using the gift of music to teach and train aspiring musicians. 9 out of those 12 years he’s been living in India, using his experience and education to teach at Calcutta School of Music and started a company, Chaitown Creatives (Chaitown Community)
Zachary’s love for music and sharing his story through lyrics has led him back to songwriting and recording his original music, working alongside friends and artists like American Music Award and Grammy nominated Jody McBrayer (Avalon), billboard charting producer Nathan Walters (PlusOne), Angie Miller (Zealyn), and Brandon Bee.
After being back in America during 2019 – 2021 to write and record more original music, he’s now back living with his family in Mumbai, India working alongside producer Nathan Walters and GMI as the educational outreach and industry representative in Mumbai.
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