Blogging Singers

The topic of blogging singers has been passed back and forth and I can't help but add my two cents (which are really just an expansion of comments I left on Vissi d'amore (whose I handle Ariadne Obnoxious, I must say seems to be inappropriate since I don't find her the least bit obnoxious). As a recovering tenor I just have a few thoughts:

• Blogging singers should never criticize other colleagues
  I don't see that happen much, but I have seen it on forums and newsgroups and I think it is a terrible mistake. I have occasionally criticized one or two sacred cows, but were I still pursuing a career as a singer, I wouldn't do even that. What happens on the internet, no matter how obscure you might perceive your blog to be, makes the rounds quickly. For example, checking my activity logs, I can't tell you how many sites have linked to my Alagna/Harpo composite photo (which was not meant in any way to be derogatory of Mr. Alagna, whose work I mostly like). Word gets around quickly


• It is beneficial to talk about process.
  Many people are fascinated by what a singer does and what they go through to get where they are. I think this is the principal interest in a blogging singer (that and dirt, which they should NEVER, NEVER give.) Non-singers like to hear about the travelling, the rehearsing, how it effects you personally, your family and friends. Details on how and why you get to wear you are, are very interesting.


• Blogging as a marketing tool.
  
  This requires a more extended discussion.
  Sarah suggests that blogging is a great marketing tool. I think it is, but only for a certain group. If you are an emerging singer, don't expect to get jobs or auditions from it. Those who have the power to do that for you, don't often have the time or inclination to read blogs. You still have to do the other stuff to get those (auditions, pro-active traditional marketing). A website, is a great tool. Have your bio, reviews and pictures on there. Sound clips are less useful, since those who hire for opera companies will rarely trust those. And by the way, only put the good stuff up. If you have just an OK sound clip, or a qualified review ("she sang with passion, but her top notes were strident"), for goodness sake, leave them off. They can only do you harm.
  
  Once you've worked a bit, and you want to reach potential audiences, then a blog might help with that. Promoting performances and CDs through a blog will definitely get your name out there. This kind of buzz can only help you.
• Anonymity
  
  If you are going to say anything remotely controversial, then anonymity is a good thing. But I wouldn't trust it. Don't say anything that you wouldn't want to say on TV or to your boss. It can only come back to haunt you in the long run

Anyway, those are my thoughts for what it is worth. I do just want to say that I enjoy reading a lot of blogs (more than my free time allows) and hope that fear doesn't discourage people from doing it.