[Dixielandjazz]Professional jazz musicians

[Custode at aol.com]

In a message dated 1/10/2004 3:48:24 AM Eastern Standard Time, TCASHWIGG 
writes:
What is A CLU, ChFC  and how much more money could a drummer earn with that 
title behind his name, or is that a secret code for Trumpet players?  :))
Tom,

I normally respond to postings from my desktop with the personal signature 
installed.  The CLU and ChFC designations are professional designations awarded 
after the completion of concentrated studies from the American College.  They 
stand for Chartered Life Underwriter and Chartered Financial Consultant.  If 
it bothers you to see the designations after my name for postings on this list, 
simply read the text of the message and stop before the signature line...your 
day will be better. 

As for your second question, yes a drummer could make substantially more 
money by earning those designations, but only at the risk of losing his 
"professional status" using your exclusive definition.  With such at stake, I doubt many 
will do what is necessary to obtain these designations.

Finally, you made mention of the "market place" in which a professional 
musician performs contained within my definition.  Herein lies the difference in 
marketability, technicality, business sense, education, desire, and personal 
ability between performers.  I submit that there are degrees of success based on 
the aforementioned attributes which dictate the differences between 
professional musicians.  These same attributes do not however, exclude one from being a 
"professional musician."  

Happy New Year!
Lewis D. Custode, Jr., CLU, ChFC
trumpet/leader
Bourbon Street Brass
Buffalo, NY