Choosing Your Path: Music Career vs. Suitable Job

I have great interest in music but I have never learned it. I am about to get married really soon. Should I go for a music career or should I find a suitable job?

Exploring Your Options

The decision you're facing is significant and multifaceted. Making a choice between pursuing a music career or finding a suitable job is crucial, especially when you are on the cusp of another life milestone like marriage. Here are some factors to consider:

Talking to Your Partner

First and foremost, talk to your partner. It's essential to understand their perspective and how they would support your dream. Their input can provide invaluable insight and emotional support, especially during times of uncertainty.

Understanding What a 'Suitable Job' Means

Clarifying your definition of a 'suitable job' is equally important. A suitable job should align with your skills, provide a balanced work-life, and offer a realistic path for financial security. While music can be a passion, it's not necessarily the career path you should pursue, especially given the current landscape of the music industry.

The Reality of a Music Career

If you are truly passionate about music, then a career in music is a great path. However, it is not without its challenges and expectations. Here are some realities:

Starting Early

Having never learned an instrument before, you might find it challenging to make a living as a musician. Professional musicians, whether they play in orchestras or in high-demand cover bands, typically need to be skilled and well-practiced. This often implies years of dedicated practice and training, typically beginning in your late teens or early twenties.

The Evolving Music Industry

The music industry is changing rapidly. With the advent of digital platforms, the volume of music available has exploded, making it difficult for individual artists to stand out. While the cost of producing and distributing music has decreased, the share of revenue goes miles when shared among all musicians.

Amateurization

Interestingly, the future of music could see a major shift towards mass amateurization. More people will engage in music not as a profession but as a personal interest or hobby. This democratization of the music industry is both a promise and a challenge. While countless people will be making music, the financial rewards for individual musicians may be minimal.

Alternative Career Paths

Additionally, consider alternative career paths within the music industry. You can work at radio stations, music management agencies, or even at music stores. These positions can offer a stable income and a way to stay connected to the music you love without requiring extensive training or performance skills.

Conclusion

Choosing between a music career and a suitable job is not a decision made in a vacuum. It should be a thoughtful and collaborative process that takes into account your skills, your partner's support, and the realities of the modern music industry. While the future of music may be in the hands of many passionate amateurs, a stable and fulfilling career outside of music can also bring joy and security.