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Piano Van Dream...

Started by Tom J Mcmahon, July 28, 2017, 03:38:20 PM

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Tom J Mcmahon

Hello Everybody,
I'm new here. I thought I would share my dream I am working towards and any advice would be most welcome.
I am saving to buy a van to convert/ or already liveable. After discovering this chap https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_1kcGeEsoM
I have been inspired. His name is Chris Stroffolino and he lives in a van with a piano(There's very little information about him online- a few interviews but none of the nitty gritty logistical stuff.)
I want to do the same. My love for the piano is the one thing that has kept me from a more nomadic lifestyle. I have a long way to go savings wise and need to pass my driving test and get a job but I have this goal and I'm sure I can get there soon. I'm trying to put together a budget and my ultimate aim is to have something by November so I can then apply to feature in festivals for the following summer. Ambitious but not unachievable I think!
I'm not planning on a full on touring lifestyle- initially I will have a base- probably in York where I have lots of friends and can build up a teaching practice and find part time work easily and gradually improve the Van and lifestyle around it..
The chap above had a mechanic bolt the piano to the floor of the van. Any other suggestions on how it could be fastened in place?
Any other general advice very welcome as I begin this journey.
Cheers,
Tom

Camper_Dan

Greetings & Welcome!

While I have no experience with pianos, I can tell you that getting your income in order is essential, and one of the largest reasons people fail.  Savings can work, but only last so long, and employers don't like gaps in your work history.  The older you get, the harder it can be to land a job too...  Employers like young, professional looking people.

The younger you are, the easier it is to work those long hours or multiple jobs to get ahead.  Life on the road can be great, but not if you have to constantly worry about money or jobs.  Too many people throw away good careers and maybe even sell their houses, only to discover they've made a horrible mistake.  It's better to experiment in your free time, and work out any/all kinks before jumping in with both feet.  Make sure it's the right choice for you before blindly taking that leap of faith based on the advice of people you don't even know.  Listen to your inner voices and fears, and resolve ALL of them before moving forward.  Don't risk anything important until you're absolutely sure. 

Good Luck & keep us posted!
Smiles are extremely contagious,
Pass them on!!!

Tom J Mcmahon

Cheers Dan,
I can see that. My income is totally self-employed currently but not sustainably yet.. Teaching piano, busking, gigs. I've got a sharp suit if needed but I'm aiming to move away from day jobs- I can't hold them down anyway- apparently I reek of insubordination. But thanks for the sound advice. Inititially I won't be travelling- I'll be in a community I know with a lot of friends and options for informal renting if it really isn't working out.
Also I don't really have anything I'd be giving up or risking except the investment!
I will run through and properly consider all my doubts though. That is a wise point- its soe asy to get carried away.
T