Christy Bullen
Band Leader, Rocksteady Music School
Christy Bullen worked a corporate job before pursuing his passion for music by becoming a band leader.
I used to work for a building society, helping people pay their bills and organise their finances. I’ve been a musician for years, but never thought I could have a music career without writing hits and becoming the next mega-star, until this job opportunity with Rocksteady came along.
Igniting a spark that becomes a lifelong passion
Now I get to live out my passion for music, spending every weekday teaching children how to play music in a rock and pop band. I had the same experience as most in primary school: learning the recorder to play ‘Three Blind Mice,’ and felt this was a much more real-world, inspiring way for children to learn music. I would have loved to do band lessons as a child!
As a band leader, I see some amazing moments; children’s eyes light up as they discover how to play their first power chord or when they get their first round of applause after performing as a band! Seeing them ignite that same spark that I did, which made music a big part of my life, is amazing! Every day is different. I travel to different schools, teach different children, play a variety of songs and teach so many skills. It keeps me on my toes and stops the daily rut you can get into when working in an office.
Now I get to live out my passion for music, spending every weekday teaching children how to play music in a rock and pop band
Work-life balance means more time with family
I work 8 am-4 pm, Monday to Friday, and am employed permanently, earning a salary with a pension and benefits package. One of the most appealing parts of this role for me is the work-life balance. I don’t work during evenings and weekends or during school holidays, which is an absolute lifeline for my family and me. When my kids are on school holidays, so am I! I’m also able to balance being a professional musician playing shows across the country with teaching for Rocksteady.
Rocksteady is the UK’s largest rock and pop music school, offering musicians permanent jobs with a steady income — allowing them to swap office roles for a music career.
