Disclaimer: This podcast mentions suicide in connection with the music industrySometimes, students become so passionate about building a music career that they jeopardize their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Beyond that, the music industry is competitive and has been linked to depression, anxiety, and even suicide among occupational musicians. Even performers who overcame huge odds to become professionals later discover they don’t want to be part of such a stressful world and seek an exit plan.This episode’s guest Dr. George Musgrave has a unique perspective on this. A former professional rap artist once signed with Sony Records, Dr. Musgrave now enjoys a position as a Senior Lecturer in Cultural Sociology and Creative Industries at Goldsmiths, University of London. His research focuses on the psychological and emotional experience of musicians building their careers.In this episode, we’ll discuss:(5:07) How George made the shift from the music world to academia — and used his experiences to improve research on music and mental health.(11:04) Why music careers can be sources of great joy and great suffering.(17:00) The “dark side of optimism.”(19:42) How and why musicians who see music as their main career can have worse mental health outcomes compared to those who do not.(25:01) The challenges of monetizing music in today’s online industry — and why the average musician’s earnings can be worse than a McDonald’s employee.(29:22) How your personal view of success has a positive or negative impact on your mental health.(33:56) The importance of having a “Plan B” backup plan when pursuing a music career(36:40) The responsibility teachers have for equipping students with skills they can use in their careers, no matter how “big” they make it.(40:20) The inequalities and hazards of the music industry(49:10) Why the performing lifestyle is not for everyone(51:40) If turning your hobby into a career can take some of the pleasure away(53:14) Why having a backup plan is useful when training to be a voice teacherGeorge lists many mental health resources for musicians. These include:Tonic Music for Mental Health: Training and support for music industry professionalshttps://www.thecalmzone.net/: Suicide supportMusic Support: Support for peers in the music industry affected by mental illness and/or addictionIf you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, the Suicide Prevention Lifeline can offer additional helpful resources.Visit George on his university page and read his papers.About the Institute for Vocal AdvancementThe Institute of Vocal Advancement (IVA) was created to provide voice teachers with a support network that provides you with the best teaching tools and strategies to advance your career. Our trainers teach from the empathic mindset, showing you how to improve your own teaching style.Learn how our Teacher Training Programs can help advance your career. Use the code “iva20percent” to get 20% off your first year’s course membership fee! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.