In this episode of the Female Entrepreneur Musician Podcast, Bree Noble and Tara Brueske dive deep into the concept of “pivoting” within a music career, especially from the perspective of mature artists. They draw on personal experiences and practical knowledge to offer an honest, encouraging look at why and how artists can and should embrace change, whether it’s due to life phases, changing interests, or shifts in the music industry.
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Pivoting as a Musician: Embracing Change and New Opportunities at Any Age
Why Pivoting Matters
Bree Noble introduces the idea that pivots don’t equal failures—a theme from her earlier, popular episode on the topic. Instead, pivots are often responses to new opportunities, life circumstances, or industry changes. For example, after initially declining a church music job, Bree Noble shares how she reconsidered and ultimately benefitted—creatively and socially—by accepting the role, especially after COVID and its impact on performance opportunities . Similarly, Tara Brueske points to life events, family dynamics, and energy levels as powerful factors influencing the need to pivot .
Recognizing Signs It’s Time to Pivot
Both speakers emphasize the importance of regular self-assessment. Changes like kids leaving home, shifts in one’s audience, or evolving musical formats (like the renewed interest in CDs and vinyl) may all signal that it’s time to reevaluate priorities . Bree Noble suggests that breaking routines—like taking a vacation—can help provide the space needed to step back, reflect, and decide what still serves your goals .
Key signs include:
- Feeling drained or lacking energy for tasks
- Diminished joy or satisfaction from certain gigs or roles
- Major life changes (e.g., family, health, loss)
- Noticeable shifts in audience demand or industry trends
Examples of Artist Pivots
The conversation highlights several ways musicians might pivot, including:
- From Performing to Teaching: Many artists successfully transition to teaching, using their existing networks to fill studios .
- Exploring New Revenue Streams: Skills in recording, mixing, and video editing can become new sources of income .
- Writing Instead of Songwriting: Both hosts note that creative urges can shift from writing songs to authoring books, devotionals, or regular communications with fans .
- Reassessing Gigs: Tara Brueske shares how she now prioritizes gigs based on compensation and ease of payment, reflecting a willingness to say no to less rewarding opportunities .
- Embracing Multi-Passionate Seasons: Both agree it’s healthy to focus on new or adjacent artistic pursuits if it brings excitement and fulfillment .
Pivots vs. Chaos: Knowing the Difference
A critical distinction is made between intentional pivots and simply giving up or chasing the next new thing too quickly. Bree Noble cautions against abandoning projects prematurely, advising artists to give honest efforts sufficient time (i.e., a year or more) before changing direction . The process of building reputation and traction is neither fast nor instant, but persistence pays off.
Managing Multiple Roles as an Artist
The need to avoid chaos by overcommitting comes up repeatedly. Both hosts encourage limiting simultaneous goals and focusing energy where it counts most . Strategies like batching similar tasks and structuring workweeks around specific roles (teaching days vs. gigging days) are effective ways to thrive as a mature, multi-faceted musician .
Encouragement for Artists at All Stages
To close, Bree Noble and Tara Brueske stress that pivoting is normal, healthy, and sometimes necessary for long-term satisfaction and career sustainability. Whether you’re stepping into new roles, returning to performing, or exploring a related creative field, give yourself permission to evolve. It’s about discernment, not failure—and new seasons of creativity and connection await those open to change.
Links Mentioned In This Episode
- Bree Noble on Instagram: @profitablemusicianllc
- Tara Brueske on Instagram: @terrabriskeymusic