How to become a Musician

Musicians are talented individuals who perform music for their audience. Their performances can be live or recorded. They can be extremely skilled at playing one or multiple musical instruments, depending on their area of concentration, which could be classical music or popular music, for example. They can choose from a broad variety of genres, including classical, alternative, electronic, rock, jazz, hip-hop, and country music, to mention a few. They can even create their own playlists. However, some musicians also compose their own music in addition to performing versions of other artists' songs. As independent artists, they can pursue their goals on their own, or they can collaborate with others in a group setting such as a band, orchestra, choir, opera, or theatre company. They put forth a significant amount of effort into practising and rehearsing their musical compositions in order to polish their performances on stage. It is also necessary for them to devote time to studying new methods and playing other musical instruments in order to broaden their musical horizons. They can perform on the radio, television or in motion pictures and recording studios as well.

• Deliver music performances for live or recorded sessions
• Rehearse solo or with the members of their group regularly
• Expand skill set and sharpen the personal technique and style by regularly practising
• Travel to music venues such as concerts, ceremonies, festivals etc to perform
• Prepare and give auditions to secure work opportunities
• Compose original music
• Participate in live sessions to provide musical background
• Record musical performances in studios
• Publicize their talents through interviews, photoshoots, and social media

First and foremost, a musician should have superior musical abilities and possess mastery in playing a musical instrument. To grow their artistic circles, maintain a positive image in the industry, and negotiate and secure contracts for employment, they must be adept at networking, as well as interpersonal communication and negotiation. Their interpersonal skills are crucial since they work with various people such as music producers, agents, singers, and other musicians. They also need to be skilled at self-promotion and marketing themselves to build a fan base. They should be self-motivated individuals who are able to work collaboratively with other professionals as well. To perform properly, this work also necessitates a great deal of patience, tenacity, and physical stamina on the part of the employee, who must also constantly train in order to preserve and improve his or her abilities, technique, and style. They should be creative, dedicated, and passionate about music in order to deliver captivating performances. Their organization and time management skills are crucial to manage their work and coordinate effectively.

Salary of a Musician in India:

• Minimum Monthly Salary: For entry-level musicians or those starting their careers, the monthly salary may range from INR 10,000 to INR 30,000, especially when performing in small venues or local events.
• Maximum Monthly Salary: Established and highly successful musicians, who have a strong presence in the industry and perform in high-profile events, concerts or collaborate with well-known artists, can earn a maximum monthly salary of INR 1,00,000 to INR 5,00,000 or more.
• Annual Salary: The annual salary of a musician can be from INR 1,50,000 to several lakhs, depending on their level of experience, popularity, the scale of their performances, and their reputation in the music industry.
• Highest Paying Job and Scope: The highest paying job for a musician is often found in live performances, concerts, and events organized by major music labels, corporate events, and Bollywood or film music. Musicians also have opportunities to compose, record, produce, and teach music. The scope for musicians is promising in India due to the growing entertainment industry, with opportunities in various genres, including classical, folk, pop, rock, and electronic music.

Musicians have opportunities to work in various industries and sectors, utilizing their musical talents and skills. Some of the industries open for musicians include:

1. Music Industry: Musicians can work within the music industry, including recording studios, music production companies, music labels, and distribution companies.
2. Entertainment Industry: Musicians can be part of the broader entertainment industry, contributing to film and television soundtracks, advertisements, and video game music.
3. Live Performances: Musicians can perform live in concerts, music festivals, weddings, private events, and other public gatherings.
4. Teaching and Education: Musicians can work as music teachers in schools, colleges, and music academies or offer private music lessons.
5. Media and Broadcasting: Musicians can work with radio stations, television networks, and streaming platforms for music programs and shows.
6. Event Management: Musicians can collaborate with event management companies to provide musical entertainment for various events.
7. Cruise Ships and Resorts: Musicians may find opportunities to perform on cruise ships, at resorts, and in hotels, providing entertainment to guests.
8. Advertising and Jingles: Musicians can compose jingles and background music for advertisements and commercials.
9. Online Platforms: With the growth of digital platforms, musicians can showcase their work on social media, YouTube, and streaming services.
10. Collaborations: Musicians can collaborate with other artists, bands, and composers to create new and diverse musical projects.
11. Therapeutic and Healing Centers: Musicians can use their musical talents in therapeutic settings like music therapy and relaxation centres.