It is difficult to procure stable and consistent singing gigs, especially when starting out. That's why most singers need to find a side hustle. For those of us in school, it is especially imparative to work and pinch pennies during the summer.

Play to your strengths and previous experience when you look for another job. Do you have a lot of hospitality experience? Office experience? Child or pet care experience? Never fear. There's something out there for you.

1. Temping and Office Work

If you have a lot of administrative or clerical experience like me, sign up for a temp agency near you. Some gigs may last a couple weeks while some may last six months to a year. There are also remote opportunities available, depending on your skillset. Keep up with your typing, Office Suite skills such as Excel, data entry skills, and bookkeeping knowledge. For a nominal fee, sites such as universalclass.com can assist with advancing your skills. There are sometimes free or inexpensive classes available through Microsoft's website or your local and/or state government to sharpen your skillset.

One caveat: it may be difficult to save your voice, particularly if you answer a lot of phone calls during the day. Remember to always support your speaking voice as you would your singing voice. The 9-5 schedule may also put a damper on day gigs, however, keep in mind that everything is temporary. With some smooth bargaining skills and a solid review, you can gain some flexibility and leverage in a long-term position.

2. Child or Pet Care

If you prefer to work with our furry or feathered friends, there are dog-walking and other pet-sitting opportunities out there. Seek out care jobs in your area through online resources such as Care.com and apps like Rover and DogVacay. Like the office work, these gigs can be temporary or long-term, depending on the family or individual's needs. If you have a music education, general education, or day care background, these previous gigs will work well in your favor. Some agencies and/or families require background checks or CPR/First Aid Certifications. The latter can be renewed bi-annually, depending on the certification.

3. Music Directing

Be it for a summer camp, community theatre, or professional company, you can make some cash directing a musical or ensemble. Advanced piano skills and conducting prowess will be especially helpful when securing this type of employment. It is also necessary to posess strong people skills and tact, particularly when dealing with inexperienced and/or amateur musicians. It can be quite hectic in terms of scheduling, however, it can also be rewarding when the final product is ready. Directing a show is also a great way to network and met other professionals as well as amateurs. You never know who may open doors for you! 

4. Waitressing or Bartending

If you have experience working in the restaurant or hospitality industry, then seek a job as a waitress, hostess, or bartender. It is difficult to secure one of these jobs without prior experience unless you know someone willing to vouch for you. Restaurant/hospitality jobs can be hard on your feet and legs so invest in comfortable shoes. Also, restaurants and bars can be quite loud. Do what you can to protect your hearing and save your voice. If you can limit your speaking outside of work, that will remedy the situation. Wages are often low so you may need to rely on good tips. These types of jobs can be great for extroverts and social butterflies.

5. Church Subbing

If you're unable to commit to a weekly church job, make yourself known as a sub. It's one of the best ways to network and connect with singers, instrumentalists, and conductors. It also connects you to the community and introduce to future patrons and donors of the arts. Note: some church choirs do not meet during the summer months. Luckily, there are year-round temporary gigs such as funerals, baptisms, and weddings.

Excellent sight-singing, choral blending, and people skills are a must. Most importantly, be abundently patient and understanding of your fellow choristers. They are there to worship and have fun.  Enjoy the communal experience.

In any outside gig, it is important to always be professional, flexible, and tactful. While these jobs are ideal for the summer, it is possible to freelance in any of these fields throughout the year. In the words of one of my mentors, "Never stop looking for a job, even if you've found the perfect one." How else do you supplement your income as a singer? Comment below.