McNally Smith Welcomes John Snyder

McNally Smith College of Music was fortunate to have John Snyder visit recently. John is a man of many talents: five-time Grammy winning producer, author and educator, and Director of the Music Industry Studies program at Loyola University in New Orleans. He’s toured the world as a trumpeter, has a law degree, and has made great recordings with many of the finest jazz musicians of all time.

But perhaps John’s most striking characteristic is his intense interest in people. In conversation, he pays very close attention to what people are saying and responds with sincerity, care and consideration.

His love of students is readily apparent, and their response to him was overwhelmingly positive. Yes, his stories are great and his expertise is obvious, but most important of all: John Snyder is authentic. He is not trying to impress anyone, nor sell himself.

To have a life in music, to shape a career as a music performer, composer, producer, or business person, there is one common requirement: people must “buy” what you are “selling.” You must make a powerful, positive impression to get the offer, whatever the offer may be. How does one do that?

I recommend being authentic. People see through most anything else. Trying to appear to be something you are not is a waste of everyone’s time. Discover what it is that you truly love to do, and extend every effort to master that activity while bringing your own unique personality and perspective to your work.

Watching John Snyder in action confirmed the wisdom of just being yourself, being curious and passionate at the same time, and making sure that your interactions with people are honest. You present yourself best not when you are trying to sell yourself, but when you can confidently allow your mastery to speak for itself.