Is music a legitimate career?

Hi Al!

Yes! Music is certainly a career choice, and something you can be successful in. Both my degrees (Bachelor of Music and Master of Music) are in Voice Performance. In addition to performing, I currently serve as the Program Coordinator for a university department of music. A degree in music does not limit you to only performing.

There are multiple outlets with a career in music: Arts Administration, Performance, Music Education (K-12; Higher Education), Non-Profit work, Music Business, Music Therapy, etc.

The best advice I could give you would be to take the opportunity to double major during your undergraduate studies. This will allow you a larger possibility of career choices as you navigate through the years after college. Remember to volunteer your time when you can, become involved in what is going on in the arts community (Americans for the Arts is a great organization to become involved with), learn as much as you can and find your one way.

Music does not limit you, it enhances what you can give to a future employer!

Good luck!

I am not a musician myself but I do provide marketing assistance for a few friends who perform as soloist or in bands. For every Taylor Swift or Beyonce out there who has hit it big there are dozens of artist who are still struggling. If your plan is to be a performer you need to practice and hone your craft. If you play an instrument, the advice I have heard from other musicians is to play it every day--make it part of you. You need to have a thick skin and take criticsm. It would also be a good idea to have other skills which you can use to pay the bills. I have one friend who produced an album and toured extensively but she never got a "big break". She found another way to get into the music industry: she became a songwriter and got a job with a publishing firm. (Even though she is in Los Angeles some of her songs have been recorded by bands in Europe.) Other options include teaching, working for a radio station, working for a record label. (Not sure where you are located but see if there is a small, independent record label where you can intern.) The best thing I can suggest: patience. It took 10 years for Pennsylvania-based band Halestorm to become an "overnight success" on their way to winning a Grammy in 2013. Good luck

It's a much harder business than it was 10-20 years ago. Bands have to rely on touring more and more, and people don't really buy Cd's any more. Even established bands are starting Patreons to get money to do tours.

Learn more about before you make a choice.

Of course it is. Look at the music business, how many people are involved. I mean, to make music is the same as to bring joy and happiness to people. Go for it!!