Cruise ship drumming

The Drummer's Den

There are four typical types of drumming jobs on cruise ships: show band, dance band, jazz trio and calypso band. For the most part, a show band is the only band onboard that didn't get booked as a unit. Most dance bands have two to five members and have already been playing together on land. Dance bands, to be successful, need to be able fill the requests of the dancers. Most calypso bands come from the Caribbean islands as a pre-formed group that plays poolside. The jazz trio is less widespread, as not all ships include a jazz trio. So, unless you live in the Caribbean or you get very lucky with your jazz trio, your best bet is to either be in a very good dance band, or to apply for a seat in the show band. Show band drummers need sight-reading skills and the ability to play many different styles of music like, Latin, pop, classical, funk, country, etc.

Most cruise contracts are for four to six months. Pay for a show band drummer can range from $1890 to $2800 per month, depending on the cruise line and your experience. Dance band drummer, $1500 to $4000. Jazz, $2000 to $2700. Also, consider that you won't have any grocery, housing, utility or transportation expenses while onboard. The cruise line will even pay for you to get to ship, and back home after your contract ends.

Using a booking agent, although the agent gets 10-20% of your income, is highly recommended. It's very likely that you'll make more with the agent, than without, enough to cover the agent's fee. Many lines will only hire through an agent. Your agent will manage travel docs, negotiate pay raises, contract length, and ship assignments. For info on contacting an agent go to www.careerdrummer.com. Many drum seats become available at the end of August, early December and early summer.

The Drummer's Den