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What are the requirements for a career in music?
In terms of what, is it connection, voice
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5 answers
Updated
Will’s Answer
Talent is a small part of it. Connections and networking is a majority of it. It doesn’t take much to figure out that there are a lot of people with a little talent who are successful in the music business. They got there because of networking and connections. There are millions of people who want a career in music because they think they have what it takes, But on a larger scale, everyone has what it takes. You need to begin to reach out to people you admire in the music business, including artists, producers, Record labels. Don’t be afraid to email them if you can, but also don’t pester them. Tell them how much you like what they do and you’re simply looking for some advice. Truthfully, they may or may not get back to you. Give them a week or so to respond. Then follow up. You might be surprised who answers you.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, John !
There are really no specific requirements for a career in music except talent which I am sure you have. Do you play an instrument or do you sing ? Exactly what career are you seeking ? Vocal Performance or musician ? It makes a big difference on how you would pursue your career.
If you are a singer you will need a lot of vocal training which you can receive at a local community college or the many private instructors that are available in your city. Yes, there is a technique for singing that will help you immensely develop your singing voice safely and bring out various qualities that make your singing voice unique. The end result about requirements is to audition for singing parts of which there are very many in your city. Depending on the type of singing, you can showcase your talent at singing nights at clubs or on video through a platform channel. Get yourself seen. That's the foremost requirement. And yes, make connections !
It would be similar if you are aiming to get work as a musician. With both playing and singing, you should practice every single day and read the trade websites. Register at Fiverr, Upwork, Bark, Guru, and Sound Better for which I have left a link for you below. With both singing and playing music, you'll also want to start registering for work at various agencies which are being done online currently. It's no guarantee, but worth a try because you never know when you'd get called. They are primarily for actors, however there's the opportunity to highlight yourself on most of the profiles as a musician or singer. It could help you get experience and work being in projects that call for singers or musicians. I suggest Actors Access to begin with. It's a lot of work, but register with all of them to increase the probability that you can obtain a gig. Once you get tons of experience and have a full resume, you can then seek representation from an Agent.
Connect with the trade websites, too. I have left a link with a list of all the magazine type websites or periodicals that may be helpful for you to start reading if you haven't already. Get to know the business. So you do need to know this on a business level and sharpen your talent through lessons and experience. Those are the important qualifications. But most importantly, always enjoy the journey !
Some people do take an academic path with a degree for this field of work. That would always be helpful if you ever want to get work at a studio and a college degree path would actually provide performance experience and opportunities for you. It would also be great if you ever wanted to go into Managing or Agenting later on down the road. This is a good time to explore all of your options.
I hope that this has been of some help and I wish you all the best ! Never give up !
TRADE WEBSITES FOR SINGERS AND MUSICIANS https://www.websiteplanet.com/blog/best-websites-hire-musicians/
MUSIC INDUSTRY AGENCIES IN NEW YORK CITY https://search.brave.com/search?q=NYC+singer+agencies&source=web
LIST OF MAGAZINES FOR MUSICIANS AND SINGERS https://magazines.feedspot.com/music_magazines/
There are really no specific requirements for a career in music except talent which I am sure you have. Do you play an instrument or do you sing ? Exactly what career are you seeking ? Vocal Performance or musician ? It makes a big difference on how you would pursue your career.
If you are a singer you will need a lot of vocal training which you can receive at a local community college or the many private instructors that are available in your city. Yes, there is a technique for singing that will help you immensely develop your singing voice safely and bring out various qualities that make your singing voice unique. The end result about requirements is to audition for singing parts of which there are very many in your city. Depending on the type of singing, you can showcase your talent at singing nights at clubs or on video through a platform channel. Get yourself seen. That's the foremost requirement. And yes, make connections !
It would be similar if you are aiming to get work as a musician. With both playing and singing, you should practice every single day and read the trade websites. Register at Fiverr, Upwork, Bark, Guru, and Sound Better for which I have left a link for you below. With both singing and playing music, you'll also want to start registering for work at various agencies which are being done online currently. It's no guarantee, but worth a try because you never know when you'd get called. They are primarily for actors, however there's the opportunity to highlight yourself on most of the profiles as a musician or singer. It could help you get experience and work being in projects that call for singers or musicians. I suggest Actors Access to begin with. It's a lot of work, but register with all of them to increase the probability that you can obtain a gig. Once you get tons of experience and have a full resume, you can then seek representation from an Agent.
Connect with the trade websites, too. I have left a link with a list of all the magazine type websites or periodicals that may be helpful for you to start reading if you haven't already. Get to know the business. So you do need to know this on a business level and sharpen your talent through lessons and experience. Those are the important qualifications. But most importantly, always enjoy the journey !
Some people do take an academic path with a degree for this field of work. That would always be helpful if you ever want to get work at a studio and a college degree path would actually provide performance experience and opportunities for you. It would also be great if you ever wanted to go into Managing or Agenting later on down the road. This is a good time to explore all of your options.
I hope that this has been of some help and I wish you all the best ! Never give up !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Erfan’s Answer
Hi John,
Career in Music really depends on what type of careers do you want. Embarking on a career in music is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for growth and expression. Here are some key requirements to consider:
1. Skill Development: Mastering your instrument or voice is fundamental. Consistent practice and dedication are essential for honing your craft.
2. Music Education: While formal education isn't always a necessity, it can provide invaluable knowledge and skills. Consider pursuing a degree in music from a reputable institution like I did at Cornish College of the Arts.
3. Versatility: Being versatile in your musical abilities opens up more opportunities. Explore different genres, styles, and techniques to broaden your skill set.
4. Networking: Building connections within the music industry is crucial. Attend concerts, join local music communities, and engage with fellow musicians to expand your network. connect as many Musicians as possible via the social Media platforms such as Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, etc.
5. Performance Experience: Gain experience by performing live whenever possible. Whether it's in school ensembles, local gigs, or open mic nights, every performance enhances your skills and confidence.
6. Buness Savvy: Understanding the business side of music is essential for a sustainable career. Learn about contracts, copyright laws, marketing, and self-promotion to navigate the industry effectively.
Remember, perseverance and passion are key. Stay committed to your musical journey, and you'll find opportunities to thrive in the music industry.
Best of luck,
Erfan Jazizadeh Karimi
Career in Music really depends on what type of careers do you want. Embarking on a career in music is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for growth and expression. Here are some key requirements to consider:
1. Skill Development: Mastering your instrument or voice is fundamental. Consistent practice and dedication are essential for honing your craft.
2. Music Education: While formal education isn't always a necessity, it can provide invaluable knowledge and skills. Consider pursuing a degree in music from a reputable institution like I did at Cornish College of the Arts.
3. Versatility: Being versatile in your musical abilities opens up more opportunities. Explore different genres, styles, and techniques to broaden your skill set.
4. Networking: Building connections within the music industry is crucial. Attend concerts, join local music communities, and engage with fellow musicians to expand your network. connect as many Musicians as possible via the social Media platforms such as Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, etc.
5. Performance Experience: Gain experience by performing live whenever possible. Whether it's in school ensembles, local gigs, or open mic nights, every performance enhances your skills and confidence.
6. Buness Savvy: Understanding the business side of music is essential for a sustainable career. Learn about contracts, copyright laws, marketing, and self-promotion to navigate the industry effectively.
Remember, perseverance and passion are key. Stay committed to your musical journey, and you'll find opportunities to thrive in the music industry.
Best of luck,
Erfan Jazizadeh Karimi
Updated
Deborah’s Answer
What career do you want? That's a big question to answer.
Obviously, training is important. And you should know that training is something that will go on throughout your entire career, whether it is singing, record producing, playing an instrument, or managing talent. You must always be learning.
And listen to as much music as you can, both "old" and new. Learn what you like, and figure out why. Talk to other people about music. Go to live music events. Talk to people in the business. Work as an apprentice, even if it means sweeping up a recording studio.
And start to narrow down what part of the music business interests you most. It could be teaching. It could be anything.
good luck.
Obviously, training is important. And you should know that training is something that will go on throughout your entire career, whether it is singing, record producing, playing an instrument, or managing talent. You must always be learning.
And listen to as much music as you can, both "old" and new. Learn what you like, and figure out why. Talk to other people about music. Go to live music events. Talk to people in the business. Work as an apprentice, even if it means sweeping up a recording studio.
And start to narrow down what part of the music business interests you most. It could be teaching. It could be anything.
good luck.
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Here's a couple of the most important qualities that I don't see many other people mention: 1) resilience. INSANE resilience, and; 2) Be willing to ask for help.
Here's the only guarantee I have for your music career. You WILL get screwed over. You WILL get kicked in the teeth by someone you considered a trusted friend or colleague. You will have gigs cancelled at the last minute, checks bounce, and offered incredibly bad contracts. One of more of these things WILL happen to you. For many, it takes the wind out of them, and they leave music entirely.
You will need ABSOLUTE COMMITMENT if you expect to have any level of success.
And you WILL NOT do it all yourself. Nobody ever does. You will need a good lawyer, a reliable booking agent(s), and if it goes well, a trusted manager. Don't be afraid to get help on cover art, uploading songs to streaming, or whatever you're not good at.
Build a network of trusted associates - and watch them carefully as your career grows.
Here's the only guarantee I have for your music career. You WILL get screwed over. You WILL get kicked in the teeth by someone you considered a trusted friend or colleague. You will have gigs cancelled at the last minute, checks bounce, and offered incredibly bad contracts. One of more of these things WILL happen to you. For many, it takes the wind out of them, and they leave music entirely.
You will need ABSOLUTE COMMITMENT if you expect to have any level of success.
And you WILL NOT do it all yourself. Nobody ever does. You will need a good lawyer, a reliable booking agent(s), and if it goes well, a trusted manager. Don't be afraid to get help on cover art, uploading songs to streaming, or whatever you're not good at.
Build a network of trusted associates - and watch them carefully as your career grows.