help!!

[miss sixty]

i would like to be a music personal asistant, but what qualifications have i got to have and were shall i get started??

[andy hughes]

Not sure if you want to work for a record label / radio station etc., but the ground rules are more or less the same. because a very large number of people think that working in the music industry is glamourous, they gravitate towards this kind of job as an 'in' to the business. It's not glamouours, not at this level anyway, but in view of the inverse ratio of applicants to jobs, you need to be proactive. Approach your local radio station or record company (check Yellow Pages) and write to them. Be constructive - a "I'll do anything!" letter will get you nowhere. Make a realistic appraisal of your strengths and abilities, and ask them for an interview. You may well get a 'we'll keep you on file' response, but be persistent. Always be polite, don;t nag, don't be a pain or a stalker, but make it clear that you are determined. If all else fails, offer to work for free, initially, as proof of your reliability and integrity. bear in mind that a lot of hopefuls drift away when the novelty wears off - it is hard work, non-glamourous, and you need to be very persistant to get in, and stay in. that said, if you are determined, and maybe willing to travel outside your imediate area, talent, reliability, and a friendly nature will always triumph over the pop star wannabes who will get in your way initially. best of luck.

[Octavius]

You should look into courses that offer Artist Management training/quals.  Or check out management companies to see what they are looking for.  As mentioned above, I am sure it isn't glamorous (law is not really like Ally McBeal).  Here is a starter for 10....

http://www.vanwalsum.co.uk/amd/