[HANASHIR:2338] Re: What is a cantorial soloist worth?

[Robbi Sherwin <sherwin...>]

I believe that "invested" is also the term used for a cantor who has
actually completed a cantorial program (JTS, HUC-JIR), etc. and has been
given the seal of approval by the unions: in the case of reform, the ACC -
American Conference of Cantors; conservative - Cantor's Assembly.

Cantors can also be invested if they complete an associate program through
ACC. That's where you study with  approved rabbis and cantors and are
constantly tested along the way. I'm not sure what the CA associate
requirements are, but if you are married to or living with a non-Jew, you
will not be accepted into either program, no matter what your education,
background, level of dedication & experience in Judaism or current
lifestyle.

I know there are some "real" cantors out there on this list - please
correct me if I am wrong.

As far as what a cantorial soloist is worth - I agree with all the other
posts regarding not selling yourself short, but as with any job, you get
better and more knowledgable with age and experience.  My recommendation:
start at around $100 per service (remember, you'll have to rehearse, get
together with other musicians, possibly meet with ritual committee, and of
course, with the rabbi.)  Adding $25 a year was good advice.  Have
confidence in yourself and your abilities, but be sure you can put your
music where your mouth is!

I have about 10 years experience singing, composing, and choir directing in
"the three R's" (Reform, Reconstructionist and Renewal) congregations, 2+
current years at UAHC's Greene Family Camp (not counting early songleading
days when I was a camper in the Young Judea movement).  I am  completely
self-accompanied (guitar, of course - but I'd KILL to be able to play
keyboards like Adrian!  =^) .  Of course, being in Austin, I have a
plethora of local incredible musicians to play with - and we have a great
time. My salary from my congregation, Kol Halev, (Voice of the Heart)
aside, I can easily get $250 for a Friday night and $350 for a Saturday
morning when I sing out of town, plus expenses - but I certainly didn't
start out that way.  Concerts, workshops, even Havdallah command more.  It
depends on the mercenary in me.  And I am a non-invested cantorial soloist
- I prefer the term "music maven."

Singing for High Holydays is a whole other ball game - and another huge set
of posts.

The response to this has been great - I'm really happy to be a part of
Hanashir and I have learned so much from all of you already!  (Plus, a LOT
of my idols are on this list..............)

>From Austin, where it was in the 80's today,
Robbi Sherwin



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