Careers in Music

A common question asked is "how can I make a living in the music business"?

Well. the first thing you have to do is to define "a living" and "the music business".

Your financial needs are critical to define. Of course, everyone would like to maximize their income but what do you actually need to live? If you have a day job and you have been meeting your bills and obligations, then to switch to music full time, all you have to do is equal your day job income. If it's $500.00 a week for example, then that's what you have to make from your music business. If your music provides a second income, that's fine as long as you're willing to keep 2 jobs.

Next - The Music Business

Well, there's more variety possible than most people think. Being a "star" is an option. Though the odds are longer than normal for the "star" approach, many people do become stars. Some become major stars and some become minor stars. Remember, we're talking about making a living not appearing on The Lives of the Rich and Famous.

Teaching holds great opportunity for those who are inclined and prepared. In my book The Private Music Teacher's Guide, I outline a very serious approach to making a serious living in private teaching. Some teach in the public or private school system. You can teach for a music store or school or open your own facility.

Beyond teaching, playing offers many opportunities for income. The club level, the wedding and party bands, the hotel circuit or country club circuit, the retirement communities all offer opportunity. As usual, you can work for someone or start your own thing.

Beyond these suggestions, there are opportunities to write, Songs, jingles, soundtracks, TV themes ,video game music or the next great symphony. This blog could fill several books, so to keep it short and to the point, all these opportunities have one thing in common. They all take training, preparation, hard work, persistence and a little luck.

If you need help with any of these issues, E mail me at ChuckAnderson202@comcast.net

Check out my website at www.ChuckAndersonGuitar.com. There could some books in the online store that may help you in your pursuits. Keep checking back, because I'm always working on new material to add to the site.

Chuck Anderson