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Amplifying this point... Even the greatest of musicians through history have had to struggle to survive, it wasn't always about rock supergroups skipping acros
by CWuestefeld 13y ago
Amplifying this point...
Even the greatest of musicians through history have had to struggle to survive, it wasn't always about rock supergroups skipping across the world in private jets, screaming groupies ready to service their every desire.
I'm reminded of Bach's Brandenburg Concertos, which are some of the greatest works by one of the greatest musicians that ever lived. These works were not a platinum hit at the top of Billboard's charts. Heck, Bach didn't even get paid for them! These compositions were sent on spec to the mayor of Brandenburg (hence the name) in the hope of stirring up some sponsorship so Bach could continue his work.
If you're like me, you picture the hopeful rock star as struggling along, trying to supplement his income by giving guitar lessons to locals. This also describes Beethoven - he was frequently hunting for commissions to keep himself afloat, and had to earn money by giving piano lessons.
The idea that musicians should somehow be above all this stuff is a modern invention. Most of the greatest works in history were not done by people enjoying easy financial prospects.
- camus 13y agoSlaves did not get paid for their work too , what's your point? are you ready to code for free ?
- Flimm 13y agoThe point is that people are so passionate about music that they will make it, even for free, and the results can be outstanding. The same can't be said about the type of jobs slaves used to get.
- freehunter 13y agoYeah, programmers never do work without getting paid. They would never think of working a job to support themselves financially but also do programming after work just because it's something they're passionate about. Every programmer is a rock star and will either make a billion dollars or go do something else. Open source and side projects don't exist in this world, of course.