Working to Play in a Rock Band (1979)

Video Clip Synopsis:
In order to earn a living the members of this rock band must work in mundane jobs during the day. At night they pursue their dreams of musical success.

Duration:
2min 41sec

Working to Play in a Rock Band is an excerpt from the film Bundy Into Dreamland (16 mins), an episode of the series Working (7 x 16 mins), produced in 1979.

Bundy Into Dreamland: Part-time musicians discuss the problems involved in earning a living while playing in a band. In order to earn money, they must work at other more mundane jobs, such as in a factory or on a production line, and pursue their musical career in their spare time.

Working: The series is a window into the 70s and reflects different attitudes to work, including working for money, love, or passion, and working for an employer or being self- employed.

Working was produced by Film Australia.

Curriculum Focus: English
Year: 9-10
Theme: Artists at Work

Sacrifice; Passion; Compromise; Dreams; Ambition

Artists of all genres, prior to establishing their careers, can experience a period of difficulty in supporting themselves financially. Balancing regular paid work with the time that can be devoted to a creative pursuit can be difficult and frustrating.

This can be a sorting out period when the talents and capabilities are matched against passion, dedication, perseverance and a commitment to producing consistent and high quality work. In order to gain recognition, which may lead to financial success, these characteristics need to be supported by establishing good networks, excellent PR and support from within the sector or industry.

This period of gradually emerging into the public eye can be considered as a kind of apprenticeship.

Individual artists may find the isolation of working though this period challenging, although sharing studio space or accommodation can overcome this. A group of artists has the difficulty of developing and maintaining an equal level of focus and professionalism. The loyalty to the group can also be tested during this period. If artists/players shift their allegiance to other groups or drop out for any number of reasons, finding suitable replacements can create additional stress and even threaten the existence of the group.

Imagine dedicating two or three years or more to a group only to see it all crumble before you!

From the birth of rock and roll in 1954 thousands of young Australians have formed bands and practised in their garages, living in hope of being the next big thing.

Most have not succeeded, but many have maintained their love of creating music with mates in a group.

1. What does the video clip show?
2. Why do the people do it?
3. What positive and negative experiences about being in a band does the clip show?
4. What does the video clip suggest to you about creativity?

1. One character in the video clip talks about the need to have dreams. Do you agree? Prepare a piece of writing in any style on this theme.

The Arts Year 7-8, English Year 9-10, The Arts Year 9-10