Musician

Performers in popular or classical music field play one or more instruments - or sing - usually to an exceptionally high standard. They would normally both perform live and make recordings. Other musicians work as composers, teachers, music therapists, administrators, publishers, recording company executives, instrument manufacturers, librarians, broadcasters or journalists. Indeed, many musicians combine some of these activities, especially those who perform, record and teach. The work for classical musicians might include playing in groups ranging from a small ensemble or chamber orchestra, right up to a full-size symphony orchestra. There is also a wide variety of session work, with musicians being booked by the hour or by the day to work on recordings, advertisements, film scores and backing tracks for singers.

Popular musicians also play a musical instrument and/or sing. They would normally perform a certain style of music, such as rock, pop, jazz, folk, country and western, world or 'easy listening' music. In addition to performing live, they might make recordings in their own name or undertake session work.

All musicians must be prepared to practise regularly, to learn new pieces of work and, where appropriate, to arrange performance schedules and travel plans.

Entry level
There is no single training route and no two career paths will be the same. You may acquire an impressive set of qualifications but these will not automatically bring work: experience and 'being known' are just as likely to gain you employment or at least get you as far as an audition.

Classical musicians need extensive musical education and training, often to postgraduate level. You would probably have learned to play one or more instruments from an early age and passed various graded examinations. You could then continue with a specialist course in a recognised college of music - known as a 'conservatoire' - or take a music degree course at a university or higher education institution.

University degree courses may concentrate on the academic and theoretical side of music more than the practical playing side, whereas courses run by conservatoires are more focused on a performing career. The minimum academic entry requirements are usually two A levels/H grades, or equivalent, including music. In addition, you often need at least grade eight in your first instrument, and sometimes grade six in your second. Auditions and interviews form part of the selection process.

There are many postgraduate courses available, including those for performance, composition and conducting. If you want to become a school music teacher, you would normally take a degree in music followed by a Postgraduate Certificate in Education.

It is also possible to train as a classical musician with the Royal Marines, Army and RAF schools of music, where musical education is combined with basic military and first-aid training. A high standard on one instrument is needed and entry is by audition.

There is no set training for popular musicians, although there are some courses, including those at the Brit School in Croydon, the only UK state-funded academy for the performing arts for students aged 14 to 19.

Making the grade
As well as formal qualifications, you would need to make a name for yourself as a classical musician by entering competitions, gaining bursaries and awards, attending auditions, participating in special schemes for young artists, joining amateur groups, and perhaps giving free concerts. Progress is often slow and steady, and it may take many years for a career to mature. Even then, continuous practice is necessary to maintain high standards.

In popular music, it is important to gain as much performing experience as possible, while trying to get noticed by record companies and the broadcast media. The ability to read music by singing or playing can be an advantage if you aim to pursue a career as a session musician. Prospects depend on a combination of talent, hard work and good luck.

Personal qualities
To succeed as a classical musician, you would need to be totally dedicated to your demanding and all-consuming profession. You would also have to be talented, thoroughly trained, self-disciplined and hardworking, with enormous reserves of patience, energy and stamina. You must be dedicated to constant practice and learning, and prepared to work in a variety of environments.

Similar qualities would be needed for popular music, with the addition that you might want to develop a style that makes you stand out from the crowd.

Looking ahead
Making a living as a musician appeals to very many people but relatively few succeed. Competition is fierce and the financial rewards are generally lower than those offered by other careers requiring similar levels of skill. Orchestras offer opportunities for instrumentalists to progress through the ranks to section principal, sub-principal and principal. If you have outstanding talent, you might embark on a career as a soloist.

Many musicians move into musical and theatrical production, publishing or teaching roles. A few may become conductors or full-time composers.

The number of people working as full-time popular musicians in the UK is small, although many more work on a part-time basis. Much of the work is based in London or other major cities. A career as a musician could also be quite short lived.

Alternative suggestions
You might also consider music therapist, musical instrument maker/repairer, radio/television presenter, recording engineer or teacher.

Take-home pay
While top performers command extremely high fees, earnings are generally fairly modest. Music teachers, musicians in the armed forces and permanent members of orchestras are among the few to enjoy a regular income. The Incorporated Society of Musicians publishes on its website recommended rates for most types of musical activity.

Effects
Musicians usually work long and irregular hours, practising at home, attending rehearsals and taking part in performances. Evening and weekend working is common and your social life can be severely disrupted if your orchestra or band goes on an extended tour.

Sources of information
Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music: www.abrsm.org
Association of British Orchestras: www.abo.org.uk
Conservatoires UK Admissions Service: www.cukas.ac.uk
Incorporated Society of Musicians: www.ism.org
Music Education Council: www.mec.org.uk
Musicians Union: www.musiciansunion.org.uk
Brit School for Performing Arts and Technology: www.brit.croydon.sch.uk
British Phonographic Institute: www.bpi.co.uk
Rockschool: www.rockschool.co.uk
Creative and Cultural Skills: www.ccskills.org.uk

CRCI: Q