Jodi Proznik
Where were you at in your music career when you had your first child? Was there much discussion about how that life choice would affect your career within the music/entertainment industry?
When I had my child, I was in a pretty solid place in my music career. I had been performing regularly with a few different ensembles and had started to gain some recognition in the national jazz scene. However, there was a lot of discussion about how having a child might impact my career. Friends, colleagues, and even some venue managers expressed concerns about my availability and ability to keep up with the demanding schedule of a performing musician. It was clear that balancing motherhood with a music career was seen as a significant challenge.
As a working parent in the music industry, what are some of the biggest challenges you are facing?
One of the biggest challenges is managing time and energy. Jazz gigs often happen late at night, which can be tough when you have to be up early with your child. There's also the challenge of finding reliable childcare that can accommodate the often irregular and unpredictable hours of a musician's life - luckily we have had incredible family support all the way along, with which I don’t know how we would have made it work. Additionally, the industry can sometimes be less understanding of family commitments, making it difficult to juggle both roles effectively.
What is one change (big or small) within the industry that could make a positive impact for working parents?
One change that could make a huge difference would be more flexible and family-friendly scheduling for gigs and rehearsals. Venues and event organizers could consider offering earlier performance slots for musicians with young children and offering opportunities for all-ages shows and events. Also, providing on-site childcare or partnerships with local childcare providers during performances and rehearsals would be incredibly helpful.
How do you find support and community with other working parents in or out of the music industry?
I've found a lot of support through online communities and social media groups specifically for musician parents. These platforms allow us to share experiences, advice, and resources. Locally, I've connected with other parents through my son's school and neighbourhood. It’s also been great to meet other parents at music events and festivals, forming a kind of informal support network.
What’s one specific example of an organization/venue/company doing something great to help support working parents?
Both Women in Music Canada and the Mothers in Jazz Blog have made a conscious effort to start conversations about working in the music industry as parents. They understand the need for having conversations about flexibility and support for musicians with families, which makes a significant difference. I also want to give a shout-out to Stratford Summer Music, who gave me an apartment and covered my son’s tuition so that I can bring him along with me for the week while I coach at the Stanford Summer Jazz Academy.
What could a music event (festival, conference, etc.), do or provide to make it easier for you to participate?
A music event could provide dedicated family areas where children can be entertained safely while parents perform or network. Offering discounted or even free passes for children, along with organized activities and childcare services, would be incredibly helpful. Also, having a flexible schedule that allows parents to balance their time more effectively between family and professional commitments would be ideal.
Can you shout out another music mama doing great things?
Laila Biali is an inspiration. She balances writing and performing, recording, touring and radio hosting while raising her son and collaborating with her husband. I am grateful to have her as a friend and confidant as we journey the motherhood and music pathways at the same time.