Piano Transcription Jobs
Piano transcription is the process of converting a piece of music into written form that can be played by musicians. It’s often used for pieces that are not available as sheet music, such as jazz improvisations or contemporary songs with no existing score. The process can be time consuming and challenging for even experienced pianists, but it can also offer a new source of income. Here’s a look at the benefits of this side hustle, and some tips for getting started.
Some of the best piano transcription jobs are found on freelancing websites. These sites typically pay per audio hour or per audio minute of work, with some offering bonus payments for exceptional quality or completing fast turnarounds. If you are interested in this type of work, be sure to read the job descriptions carefully before applying. Avoid working for free if at all possible, as this devalues the profession and gives people the wrong idea that music transcription is easy.
You can also find piano transcription jobs at a variety of other companies and agencies. For example, Daily Transcription offers video training for new freelancers and lets you try practice jobs before taking on real-world assignments. They also provide constructive feedback on each assignment you complete. The company doesn’t disclose its average monthly earnings for freelancers, but some claim to make more than $1,000 with just a few hours of work each week.
Are Piano Transcription Jobs Worth It?
Another option is 3Play Media, a company that offers transcription services for a wide range of industries. This company hires both entry-level and seasoned transcribers, with the latter earning a higher salary. 3Play Media also pays bonus payments to those who meet high accuracy standards or complete their tasks within specific deadlines.
To succeed in piano transcription, you will need to have a good pair of headphones and access to high-speed Internet. It’s also a good idea to invest in a keyboard that is comfortable on your hands and wrists. Many transcribers use mechanical keyboards, which are more durable and have keys that are easier to push down than regular keyboards. You should also consider purchasing a foot pedal, which can greatly increase your speed and help you avoid repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Regardless of the type of transcription work you do, it’s important to remember that accuracy is more important than speed. Take your time and be careful not to miss any notes or chords, especially when working with unfamiliar material. It’s also helpful to work in small chunks, such as one bar or two bars at a time, rather than trying to transcribe an entire song or composition all at once. This will help ensure that your finished product is accurate and professional.
