I used to have a drawer full of hairbrushes. Seriously, there were probably 15 or more of every shape, size, and color. And it’s not because I’m obsessed with hairbrushes or have spent years trying to find the right one. In fact, I’m really not that finicky when it comes to my hair-grooming utensil—anything will do.
So why did I once own so many hairbrushes?
I was on the road a lot, and it seemed that every time I packed my suitcase, I would inevitably forget my hairbrush! I would usually remember about the time I got to the airport (I owned three vent brushes in different colors from the same airport gift shop), or sometimes it would dawn on me once I landed (thank goodness my smart phone could always “find the nearest drugstore”).
Finally I got smart. I took my plethora of hairbrushes and put one in every bag and then never unpacked them. Problem solved!
While a hairbrush is on my “most forgotten” list of packing items, we polled readers to find out what they must remember to pack. Oddly enough, no one other than me mentioned a hairbrush. Readers did share some great suggestions for travel items that make their lives easier—everything from teabags to favorite luggage (p. 54). You just might discover something that will make your traveling life easier, too.
In addition to frequent travel, a singing career is accompanied by a host of other unique challenges—some universal to nearly every singer, and others particular to a few. We address many in this issue.
Every singer needs a great headshot and many singers also need PR and production photos. Greg Waxberg interviewed four photographers for their ideas and tips on what makes a great photo shoot to get your very best photos (p. 48). From what to wear and not to wear to posing and makeup, you’ll find what you need to ensure your next shoot is a success.
The majority of singers struggle to find work, and Michelle Latour continues her new column, “Where I Last Got Paid to Sing,” with an interview with Jahmaul Bakare (p. 16). This classically trained singer discusses how he is using that training to sing repertoire in nearly every genre—even rap! His flexible attitude and clear abilities have opened doors from commercials and movies to his current one-year contract on a cruise ship.
All singers who study voice in college learn art songs—but not all singers do it joyfully. Christi Amonson delves into why teachers so often assign these songs (p. 12). She also lists the reasons singers can and should love this music.
Every career must one day come to an end. Rachel Antman looks at the stark realities of retiring. Four singers share how they decided to leave the stage and how they have found joy in life after performing (p. 30).
My hairbrush conundrum was really a minor
inconvenience in the grand scheme of things. I was grateful, nevertheless, to eventually find a solution for my own forgetfulness. As you face your own one-of-kind and more ubiquitous singer challenges, look for ways and means for finding solutions to those challenges. You can begin by reading the articles in this issue.
