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Rob Rinderer

Rob Rinderer

Career Roadmap

Rob's work combines: Music, Writing, and Being Creative

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Day In The Life

Independent Musician

I play keyboards, write songs and produce music either for my own groups or other artists.

Skills & Education

Here's the path I took:

  • High School

    Dana Hills High School

Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a Musicians & Singers:

High School

Learn more about different paths to this career

Life & Career Milestones

I've taken a lot of twists and turns

  • 1.

    I played a lot of gigs in bars, for weddings, etc, etc.

  • 2.

    I blew an audition for Jeffrey Osborne. But it made me more prepared and determined.

  • 3.

    I got the gig playing second keys behind Billy Preston. I got this because I was super-prepared.

  • 4.

    Started doing session work.

  • 5.

    More touring dates with Mark Lindsay, Michelle Shocked and others.

  • 6.

    Started producing projects for other artists.

  • 7.

    Became the keyboardist for The Harvest Crusades.

  • 8.

    Started producing music of my own (The Rob Rinderer Project, Ten By Tuesday and Breadroot).

Defining Moments

How I responded to discouragement

  • THE NOISE

    Messages from Society in general:

    You don't have it, you don't have a good voice, etc.

  • How I responded:

    This is really key for any kind of artist. I found that I had to have a thick skin, knowing that everyone will have an opinion about music (or any art form). At the same time, it was crucial to stay sensitive-this is part of what makes a great artist. The trick is to be sensitive so you can empathize and speak to and for people in your art, but not so sensitive that negative reactions to your art paralyze you.

Experiences and challenges that shaped me

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  • My family always had money issues. It was tough because being a musician (all the gear you need) is expensive. I had to learn to save. Go without some things. Even cutting out Starbucks can save a lot of money.

  • I was in a major car accident when I was 19. My life since has been filled with back and neck trouble. Plus tendonitis in my arms. I do physical therapy every night almost after I'm done working (ice, electrical stim, heat, massager, etc.).