Another one bites the dust

College Majors Music Major
1

To all parents with “children” in music, I hope over the next month or so, you can have (another) conversation with your children about abuse and harassment. My D started acting on stage at 10; and I worried about this (however being female I worried about it EVERYwhere!). I still try to have a conversation on occasion to check in with my D on this. I’ve always told her:

1.) Your talent lies within you. It is NOT dependent on a particular show, director, teacher or college. It was there before you went there/met him or her/got the role and it will be there after. An environment/teacher/peers CAN help you but that is all. It will NOT make you. At the end of the day, it is about you…not them.

2.) Understand and have healthy boundaries. NO ONE should cross your boundaries. I have always told my D that I would always have her back. I have encouraged her to look/express anger, walk out and discontinue any contact. I would NEVER question her decision (like ask “what did you do” or “what were you wearing” or “are you sure?” ick).

Frankly I would rather have my D “drop out” of any situation and lose a boat load of cash, then have her spend 1 more hour in sick situation. There are plenty of great opportunities in the world…and none include working with a jerk.

Remember in working with schools/teachers, they ARE important but never more important than your child. They will only help. Your child will make their own success…as it should be. There are MANY great environments. And my D has never faced abuse in all of her years performing.

2

Thanks for bringing up this difficult subject @bridgenail . I am sick about the many recent allegations of abuse coming to light, but honestly, it is long overdue that musicians and actors finally get sick to death of the nonsense and demand decency and respect. I have seen artists lose heart and give up their careers over this ugliness in colleges and the workplace. For too many years it has been accepted as a normal part of the business. Despicable. And men are just as likely to be targeted in music and the arts as women. And often, artists on the sidelines who refuse to be a part of it are passed over. Enough! I urge my Ds to stand up for what is right and just for themselves and also when they see others being targeted. (Insert angry, fed up emoji)

3

I’m hoping a few more bite that dust before it settles.