Jim Neglia

The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra

Career Roadmap

Jim's work combines: Music, Writing, and Working with Others

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Orchestra Personnel Manager

I am a classical percussionist, contractor, personnel manager and author

Bachelor's Degree: Music Performance, General

Graduate Degree: Music Performance, General

Certification: Music Management

My path in life has been direct

1.
Was passionate about being a classical musician.
2.
Completed my undergraduate degree followed by my Masters degree.
3.
Began freelancing as a percussionist and was asked to take over a contracting position, I accepted.
4.
Began to love both, contracting and performing. I learned my skill over time and was very focused.
5.
Began performing all over the world and began managing as well, worldwide.
6.
Kept meticulous notes for nearly 20 years on all my accomplishments, mishaps, adventures, ups & downs.
7.
Accepted my current position as Orchestra Personnel Manager of the NJ Symphony Orchestra.
8.
Decided to get my stories published and in doing so, found reasonable success.

Keep following my journey

THE NOISE
Messages from Society in general:
Music is a wonderful thing to do for fun but how are you going to make a living? I heard this time and time again except from my immediate family who supported my every decision.
How I responded:
I stuck to my guns. I refused to give in to society and pressures of those around me. I was filled with drive, determination, devotion and absolute dedication. If you believe in yourself, you cannot fail. I wanted to have a profession where I didn't have to work for a living ... I got one, I "play" for a living, making music day after day all because I (and my family) believed in me and all possibilities. Once on the road, I never looked back. That was 30 years ago and I am still in it for good.

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