11: Boundaries in the Music Industry 12.01.23

Today, we’re talking about boundaries, a theme that runs deep through every industry but especially the music industry, and to help us tackle this theme is Denver-based Saxophonist, Artist, and Educator Sarah Mount of Sarah Mount and the Rushmores.

Sarah shares her journey of striking a balance between the art of making music and the art of making a living. She details how musicians playing for free can create a ripple effect that can undervalue their craft for everyone and how she’s learned to say no to lowball offers and yes to respecting her work, especially in the wake of the COVID pandemic.

Sarah also gets real with us about her encounters with the darker side of the industry: from combating sexism to facing down macho band leaders and handling uncomfortable advances, Sarah's stories shine a light on the importance of setting boundaries for women in music. Both Emily and Sarah swap tales of being undermined, undervalued, and the sometimes-loneliness of leadership within a male-dominated field.

Sarah’s Instagram: @saxxy_sarah
Sarah Mount and the Rushmores URL: Sarah Mount and the Rushmores Webpage
Sarah Mount and the Rushmores Instagram: @sarahmountandtherushmores