Gene Dobbs-Bradford
Jazz St. Louis
St. Louis, MO US
"I don't think you're ever going to be great at something if it's something you don't really want to do. That's why it's so important that you pick something you really have a passion for."
Career Roadmap
Gene's work combines: Music, Non-Profit Organizations, and Working with Others
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
Music Performance, General
Eastman School of Music
Graduate Degree
Business Administration and Management, General
Washington University in St Louis
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
Always loved music, wanted to play bass because he "thought it was cool," joined the jazz band.
2.
Realized that, at times, the camaraderie of the band was actually more appealing to him than the music itself.
3.
He joined the classical orchestra at school; realized his repertoire, style and schedule were all going to be limited.
4.
He had much more fun organizing pick-up rehearsals and house shows with his jazz friends back home.
5.
When he went back to school, he didn't want to be an orchestra bassist; found an intriguing orchestra management program.
6.
Didn't have enough experience to get in, so he bought books, talked to mentors, really prepared for his interview, showed enthusiasm and got in.
7.
Now runs Jazz St. Louis, a non-profit that puts on concerts, does education and outreach jazz programs.
8.
Stresses the importance of practice, not just in music, but in all areas; "if you're interested in something, find out everything you can about it."
