how to become an a&r

Like almost every job in the music industry, getting a job in Artist and Repertoire is extremely difficult and, more often than not, badly paid.

There is no select route to get a job in A&R and those who are given opportunities usually have experience in other areas of the music industry first.

Those who have networked with people in the industry will find they have a much better chance of getting a leg up. Once again, it's all about who you know, not necessarily what you know.

What does an A&R role entail?

Scouts: It is the job of a scout to listen to new music, either by attending shows or listening to demos.

Managers: The manager makes the final decision on whether a new artist should be signed.

Head of A&R: The chief of the Artist and Repertoire department sets the overall direction of the label. He/she decides which genres have priority. The head of A&R has the last say in whether an act should be signed or not.

Use any previous musical experience you may have

Getting into A&R is notoriously hard and those determined to succeed will have to show off every ounce of musical knowledge to even be awarded an interview.

Although A&R reps have backgrounds in music performance, some simply have backgrounds in marketing or business whilst still retaining a thirst for good music.

Ideally A&R reps will be opportunists with varied musical tastes and comfortable taking big risks. The trick is to find a band just before they begin to really succeed.

The best way to get into A&R is to show off any past musical experience. Building up contacts, attending gigs and taking part in your local music scene is a good start.

Go to local gigs, network

Networking is a huge part of the music industry and by attending gigs in your local music scene, would be A&R reps will be able to get an idea of what bands/musicians are received by an audience.

This experience is vital as a successful A&R employee will be able to recognise what will sell.

A large part of the role is marketing, and being able to convince your colleagues that a specific musical act is worth investing in.

Start up a music website

Nowadays, everything is online and there is no better way to show a keen, active interest in local, live music than regularly blogging about the musicians you have seen in your town.

Whilst it does stray a little into the realms of music journalism, starting a music website would attract new bands likely to invite you to shows and give opinions on their music.

Do you work in A&R? Have any tips for readers? Let us know in the comments below?