Session Musicians

Session musicians are musicians who are hired temporarily, to perform in recording sessions or live performances. They are not permanent members of a band or ensemble. Instead, they come on board to sing or play during a recording session, or they may join the band for an entire tour.

Session musicians are usually hired for the duration of an album recording or a live performance. If the music band is going on a live tour, the session musician would join the band for the entire tour.

The standard pay of a session musician is $400 for every 15 minutes of the final product, which takes about three hours to record. However, if your budget is lower, consider hiring a freelance session musician at an average price of about $50 to help you with your recording.

When you hire a session musician, look at what styles they prefer. Some musicians may only be comfortable with jazz, while some may play strictly heavy metal. Ensure that your requirements match their style. You also need to consider their fees and whether they will fit in well with your band or musical ensemble. Only choose the best fit after talking to them and listening to some of their tracks.

Hiring a session musician is vital for your musical success so you must be clear what you expect from them.

First, decide what kind of musician you need - a singer/vocalist, a guitar, keyboard or saxophone player? Second, write down exactly what you expect from him/her.

Third, give examples of your music and indicate the key/tempo so they are clear what to do. Say what you don’t want them to do, e.g. write lyrics, mix or master the tracks.