[ HAWAII AT WORK ]
CRAIG T. KOJIMA / CKOJIMA@STARBULLETIN.COM
Music wrangler
works behind
the scenesKristin Jackson oversees
the care and handling of musiciansMy "typical" day at work is never typical. The only thing that I can count on is that I will be dressed in black and surrounded by beautiful music. I am the artist coordinator for the Honolulu Symphony.
Although I am not musically inclined myself, I do have a huge appreciation for all types of music and the utmost respect for musicians. I have been involved in public relations for most of my career, dealing with artists, actors and musicians. For me, dealing with musicians has been more rewarding than any other form of artist. They are typically extremely passionate about what they do and more grateful to be able to make a living doing it.
Executing contracts, booking travel and fulfilling the requirements of the artists' riders, or special requests, are just some of the things I do on a daily basis. I also assist the music director and pops conductor in arranging their busy itineraries and engagements.
During our season, which runs from September through May, I drive the guest artists to and from rehearsals and concerts, making sure their tenure with the orchestra is an enjoyable experience. I prepare their schedules and make sure they have everything they need to perform at their best. Most of our artists travel throughout the year, so they have lots of special requests and needs to make their hectic schedules easier to bear. I attend all rehearsals and concerts and spend the other parts of the day in the office planning for the next visiting artist.
Many times, I am the person the artists get to know the best, so they rely on me to be their conduit to the conductor and the orchestra members. I like to anticipate their needs because it makes them happy, which, in turn, makes their relationship with everyone in the symphony a positive one. This is where the rider comes in, which is what everyone wants to know about. "Do people really ask for only green M&M's?" I'm asked. I have never personally received that request, but most riders are very specific. Opera singers like certain waters, only at room temperature, and many of our pops artists specify special dietary needs, like vegetarian or nondairy. For the most part, everyone I have dealt with has had reasonable requests and been cooperative and friendly.
At concerts, I am in the stage-right wings, dressed in all black, enjoying the music as much as any of the patrons. Sometimes I have to pinch myself because I get paid to meet people and even become good friends with artists like Lou Rawls and Michael McDonald, and have the best seat in the house to witness some of the best music in the world.
I am really looking forward to seeing the rock group Yes coming in September. And I can't wait to see their rider!
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