Beginner Guide: How To Become A Professional Musician

I know the dream you have; I had it. I made it real.

Becoming a professional musician is both thrilling and challenging. You get excited just thinking about performing on a stage. The passion for creating and the dream of making a living doing what you love are all powerful motivators.

How To Become A Professional Musician

Let’s start by actually defining what exactly it means to be a professional musician:

A professional musician is someone who has transformed their musical talent into a career, skillfully navigating the music industry to earn a living.

​Note that I didn’t say anything about being the greatest musician of all time, or the biggest star of the century.

To become a professional musician, you need to figure out how to make a living from it. That’s it.

Once you frame it like that, the goal of becoming a professional becomes a little less intimidating. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still a monster of a mountain to climb. Yes, you’ll need talent, and yes, you’ll need to be really good at it. But it’s all more in your control than you might think.

To thrive in this field, you’ve got to hone a variety of skills and qualities. Cultivating a strong work ethic, maintaining persistence, and continuously improving your craft are vital. 

Building a personal brand and marketing yourself effectively are equally important steps to establish a presence in the competitive music business.

Understanding the varied career paths available, from session musician to songwriter, and leveraging the gig economy can lead to a sustainable and rewarding career. Learn from others’ success stories and use that to inspire you and provide insights to show your unique path forward.

Understanding the Music Industry

In order to successfully navigate the music industry you need to understand key entities and roles that shape the musical landscape. From the pivotal influence of record companies to the diverse responsibilities of industry professionals, each component plays a significant part in the ecosystem.

Major Music Business Entities

Record companies are crucial players, offering services like artist development, marketing, and distribution. These entities have substantial influence, guiding which music reaches the public.

Music education institutions also play an essential role. They provide vital knowledge and skills training, preparing students to enter various music industry fields. 

Whether it’s composing, performing, or managing, a strong educational background often boosts career prospects.

Roles of Industry Professionals

Industry professionals wear many hats, from creative roles like producers and songwriters to logistical ones such as managers and agents. Each professional contributes to both the artistic and commercial success of music.

As a musician, you might collaborate with producers who help shape your sound or with booking agents who secure performance opportunities. 

Understanding these roles helps in building a successful career and maintaining professional relationships.

Education and Professional Training

Becoming a professional musician involves both innate talent and rigorous training. You can pursue formal education at music schools, specialize in professional music majors, and take private lessons to hone your skills.

Deciding on a Music School

Choosing a music school is an important step.

I personally like this path and would recommend it whole heartedly; I’ve studied music all my life in various schools throughout my career and it’s worked well for me.

When looking at your options, always research the school’s reputation, faculty, and available programs. A school with a strong emphasis on music theory and music history can be beneficial depending on the type of music you’ll specialize in.

Consider whether you seek a bachelor’s degree or aim for further studies like a master’s degree. Evaluate how the school’s resources, including practice facilities and networking opportunities, align with your career goals.

Visiting campuses and attending open house events can provide insights into the environment and help solidify your decision.

Professional Music Majors

Professional music majors offer various specializations like performance, composition, arrangement, and music education. A music degree might focus on instrumental skills or vocal techniques, depending on your interest.

Performance majors typically involve extensive practical work, while composition builds on music theory and creativity. Education majors might learn teaching methods alongside musical studies.

An undergraduate degree typically provides foundational knowledge and skills, while graduate programs offer advanced study and specialization. Each path tailors your education to suit professional aspirations.

Value of Private Lessons

Private lessons offer tailored training that complements formal education. These lessons can deepen proficiency and address individual strengths and areas for improvement.

Working one-on-one with experienced instructors provides personalized feedback essential for growth. Whether learning a new instrument or refining existing skills, consistent practice under expert guidance can be invaluable.

Private lessons also allow for a more flexible learning schedule, accommodating different learning paces and adjusting as necessary to fit your evolving needs.

Building Essential Musical Skills

Building essential musical skills is the foundation of a successful music career. Focus on mastering your instrument and understanding music theory to enhance your artistry and comprehension of complex compositions.

Mastering Your Instrument

Continuous practice is crucial when aiming to master a musical instrument. Dedicate regular practice sessions to familiarize yourself with the nuances of your instrument. Whether you play the guitar, piano, or bass, consistency helps improve your proficiency and comfort in playing.

Focus on key areas like technique, accuracy, and expression. Work on specific skills such as chord progression, scales, and rhythm. Utilize a mixture of solo and ensemble play to refine your skills and adapt to different musical environments. Over time, you’ll build confidence and versatility in your playing.

Keep in mind that all of this practice is there so that you’ll be able to properly express yourself on your instrument. Don’t let the boredom of running scales on your guitar make you quit. These are exercises that will help you get to your goal of being a great musician.

It’s like a sprinter who lifts weights and trains with a coach that dials in their running technique so that once they go run on the track, they’ll be able to run better than ever before.

Understanding Music Theory

Understanding music theory enriches your musical expertise, allowing you to compose and interpret music more effectively. Develop a strong grasp of concepts like scales, chord progression, and harmony. Familiarize yourself with notations and the structure of various musical formats.

Study patterns in different genres to broaden your musical vocabulary. Applying this knowledge to your practice encourages better improvisation and creative exploration. By integrating these elements, you enhance your ability to communicate complex musical ideas with other musicians and within your performances.

Can You Know Too Much Music Theory?

​I’ve had aspiring musicians ask me before if studying music theory will kill their creativity; shouldn’t they just follow their creative ideas instead of bogging themselves down with a whole bunch of rules?

​Understanding music theory does not in any way hinder your ability to create. Let me be absolutely clear about that: It does not stop you from being creative.

​Think about it this way; you have to know the rules before you can bend or break them. Otherwise you’re literally just randomly making noise, hoping it’ll match with what people listening to you are expecting to hear.

What exactly is music? It’s a universal language of emotions. If you want to speak that language, you must know the rules. Once you internalize the rules, you don’t need to think about them. You’ll instinctively just know how to speak that language.

Career Paths in Music

Solo Performers vs. Ensemble Musicians

Choosing between a solo career and playing in an ensemble or band impacts your music career path choices significantly. 

As a solo performer, like many successful people in the music industry, you can develop a personal brand and have creative control over your work. Successful solo artists often include professional guitarists and opera singers who captivate audiences with their individual talents.

Ensemble musicians, such as session musicians and orchestra members, collaborate closely with others. Ensemble roles can lead to stable opportunities, particularly if you join reputable groups or become a sought-after session musician. Teamwork, communication, and the ability to blend your sound with others are essential skills in this path.

Teaching and Educational Roles

Consider pursuing a teaching role if you are passionate about sharing your musical expertise. As a music educator, you could work at schools, colleges, or private institutions, guiding students through their musical development. You might hold roles such as a music director, crafting curricula and directing performances.

Private lessons are also a popular option, often conducted by accomplished musicians who enjoy personalized teaching environments. Whether you aspire to teach voice, guitar, or another instrument, you have the chance to inspire and shape the next generation of musicians while maintaining a flexible schedule.

Gig Economy and Day Jobs

Navigating the gig economy as a professional musician involves balancing multiple income sources. Having a day job while pursuing music allows you to maintain financial stability, while freelancing provides opportunities for creative growth and professional networking.

Balancing Musical Pursuits and Employment

As a musician, juggling a day job alongside your passion for music can be challenging yet rewarding. Day jobs provide a stable income, which can support your musical projects and alleviate financial pressures. Many musicians choose roles that offer flexibility, such as teaching music, working as a sound technician, or taking up part-time positions in creative industries.

​Personally I juggled a ‘real job’ and my music career for a number of years before I could support myself with music full time. There’s nothing wrong with this path, in fact it is often a more realistic way to move forward as it gives you stability and allows your day job to be your step up to the actual career you want.

Live performances and various projects often require your presence in the evenings or weekends, so finding a job that aligns with such hours is crucial. Building a solid work ethic helps you manage both responsibilities and ensures that neither sphere suffers. Your ability to effectively balance these aspects determines how well you can sustain a long-term career in music.

Freelancing as a Session Musician

Freelancing as a session musician in the gig economy offers you the chance to work on diverse music projects while establishing yourself in the industry. 

Session musicians often collaborate with different bands or artists, stepping in for live shows, recordings, and tours. A strong network with venue owners and other musicians can increase your chances of securing these opportunities.

You may face constant evaluation, as feedback and reviews from clients heavily influence your future bookings. Maintaining professionalism and being reliable are key to thriving in such an environment. 

Freelance work is not only about performance but also involves marketing yourself effectively. Manage your rates strategically to ensure consistent work while providing value to your clients.

Brand Building and Marketing

Building a strong brand and marketing yourself effectively can make all the difference in your success as a professional musician. Establishing an online presence and making connections with influential people are key elements.

Developing an Online Presence

There’s no way around it; having a robust online presence in today’s always connected digital world is crucial. 

Use social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to connect with your audience. These platforms allow you to share updates, engage with your fans, and showcase your good music. Regularly post content that reflects your artistry, such as snippets of your best songs or behind-the-scenes footage from your performances.

Consistency is important. Create a posting schedule to keep your audience engaged. 

Incorporating elements like visually appealing graphics and videos can make your posts more attractive. Consider collaborating with digital marketing experts to refine your online strategies and ensure you’re reaching your target audience effectively.

Networking with the Right People

I can’t stress this enough: Networking is extremely important, after all the music business is still a business of people. It’s all about who you know.

And by networking I don’t mean flinging your business card at anyone in a room; it’s all about making a real, human connection with someone.

Networking is a vital element of brand building. Connect with industry professionals who can open doors to opportunities like TV show sync placements or collaborations on pop songs. Attend music events, workshops, and seminars to meet influential figures in the music industry.

Personal relationships matter. You should always follow up with people you meet. Sending a thank you email or message can leave a lasting impression. Join music-related online forums and groups to widen your network. These platforms can provide valuable insights and help you stay updated on industry trends, enhancing your visibility and credibility in the music scene.

Navigating Professional Services

Understanding Unions and Associations

Joining a musicians union or association can be highly beneficial. These organizations advocate for your rights, negotiate fair pay, and improve working conditions.

Personally I’m not a member of the American Federation of Musicians as it doesn’t really benefit my work situations. But that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t be good for you. I know many musicians who enjoy their membership and have benefited greatly from it.

Talking about benefits of joining, these include access to legal assistance, collective bargaining, and discounted rates on services and products like instrument insurance. 

Associations can also provide networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with other professionals and learn about job openings.

Accessing Health Care and Other Benefits

Managing your health as a musician is vital, as your physical and mental well-being can directly impact performance. Some unions offer health care plans specifically tailored for musicians. These plans might cover visits to specialists who understand the unique demands of your profession. 

Additionally, unions often provide access to other benefits such as retirement plans and educational workshops, helping to ensure a well-rounded support system for your career.

The Art of Performance

Becoming a successful professional musician involves mastering the art of performance. Connecting with live audiences and preparing for those big break opportunities are crucial steps.

Connecting with Audiences

When performing live, engaging with your audience is essential. Your presence on stage and ability to convey emotion through your music can establish a meaningful connection. Use facial expressions and body language effectively to bring the audience into your world.

You might ask, facial expressions, really? Yes! I think you should follow the lead of one of the greatest guitarists ever, Steve Vai on this.

Listening to the atmosphere is just as important. Pay attention to the audience’s reactions and adjust your performance as necessary. It helps to make the experience memorable and unique for everyone involved.

Practice interacting with smaller audiences before moving on to larger venues. This can build your confidence and refine your skills in engaging a crowd.

Preparing for Big Break Opportunities

Preparation is key when you’re on the edge of a big break in your career. Establishing a solid routine for practice and staying disciplined helps you to meet the demands of high-stakes performances. This preparation is an important step in making sure you’re ready when opportunities arise.

Rehearse thoroughly, considering every detail from timing to transitions. Visualize the performance, imagining the stage and audience. Such mental practice can improve confidence and readiness.

Lifestyle and Maintainability

Building a sustainable career as a professional musician requires careful management of both finances and health. Attention to these areas ensures longevity in the industry.

Managing Finances for Longevity

Your finances play a crucial role in maintaining a music career, especially if it’s your sole source of income. You need a solid understanding of budgeting to support both current living expenses and future growth.

Consider creating a detailed budget plan that accounts for:

Tracking revenues and expenses lets you make informed decisions about your financial future, helping you avoid a hard time when income fluctuates.

I think it’s important to run the business side of your music career as what it really is: A business. Think like a start-up entrepreneur would. Seize and create opportunities and set yourself up for success, both musical and financial.

Health and Wellness for Musicians

Maintaining your physical and mental health is essential for a long-term career in music. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can significantly improve your stamina and creativity.

Incorporate activities like running, yoga, or gym workouts into your routine. These help sustain a high level of energy and positivity.

Rest is just as important—quality sleep enhances muscle memory and cognitive function, which are critical for performing and composing music. Be mindful of mental health by practicing relaxation techniques and seeking support when needed.

This balanced approach supports the rigorous demands of your profession, reinforcing your ability to continue performing at your best.

Growth and Development

Continuous Learning and Improvement

Your skill level as a musician evolves over time through dedicated practice sessions and education. Regularly setting aside time to refine techniques can lead to significant progress, regardless of your years of experience.

An open mind is crucial for embracing new musical trends and techniques. Consider workshops or private lessons to invest in your growth. 

Learning from diverse sources, including genre-crossing styles, keeps you flexible and innovative. This broader understanding allows you to integrate fresh approaches into your music, enhancing both personal satisfaction and professional capability.

Adapting to Changing Music Scapes

The music industry is dynamic, and adapting to new trends is vital. Stay informed about technological advancements that affect music production and distribution. Platforms like streaming services and social media can influence how you connect with audiences.

Keeping an eye on industry changes helps you remain competitive. Attend industry events and network with peers to exchange insights about evolving practices. These strategies allow you to respond strategically to shifts in the music scene, helping you maintain a strong presence and reach your career goals.

Conclusion

In the end, becoming a professional musician takes passion, discipline, persistence, and strategy. You’ll need to invest a lot of time mastering your musical instruments and learning the ins and outs of the music industry and build strong professional relationships. 

The most important thing is to keep going, even when the path feels uncertain. I know firsthand how challenging it can be—I’ve walked that path myself, balancing day jobs and musical dreams. 

With dedication and the right approach, you can transform your talent into a long-term, fulfilling career, whether as a session musician, music teacher, composer, producer, audio engineer, rock star, or member of an orchestra.