The Reality of Being a Professional Musician: It's More Than Just a Passion

Telling someone that yoursquo;re a professional musician can lead to many assumptions. However, it's not always rosy. While it is true that music can be a profound passion and art form, the reality of a professional music career is often more challenging and demanding than many might realize.

Is Music Just a Passion or a Job?

It's often said, and often true, that telling someone yoursquo;ve never performed professionally without revealing that you haven't is a ruse. For those considering a music career, itrsquo;s important to fully understand what it entails.

Being a professional musician is a job, and not just any job. It demands 100% commitment, similar to any corporate position. If you fail to treat it as such, you may be in for aworld of trouble.

A Life on the Road or Stuck on a Tour Bus

The glamorous image of concert tours is often overshadowed by the reality. Concerts are not just about performing. They involve countless hours of practice and preparation. And if you're well-known, the tours can be grueling—spending weeks or even months on a tour bus. For lesser-known musicians, it can be equally demanding, with cramped van rides and potentially less support from the industry.

This relentless touring lifestyle takes a toll on both your relationships and your health. When yoursquo;re on the road, yoursquo;re away from your loved ones, and long tours can lead to physical and emotional wear and tear.

The Struggle of the "Starving Artist"

For those who don’t make it to a higher sphere of fame, the reality can be bleak. Many musicians must constantly audition for gigs, travel at their own expense, and settle for meager pay. They are often referred to as "starving artists," living on the periphery of the music industry with few financial rewards.

Residencies and Autopilot Mode

Residencies—performing a few nights a week—can also be a double-edged sword. While it may seem like a steady source of income, the temptation to slip into autopilot mode can be overwhelming. Keep an eye on the clock, wonder what to drink aftershow, and whether to play the same old songs.
A break from the routine might be a cold one to soothe your throat and vocal cords, but it's not a substitute for proper practice and discipline.

Orchestra Members: Striving for Excellence

Professional musicians in orchestras often face unique challenges. While they may seem to lack the highest level of musical creativity, their roles are crucial. For instance, when Aaron Copland conducted his 'Appalachian Spring,' the orchestra played an essential role in shaping the music to fit the dancers. However, not all can grasp the essence of the music.

Some orchestra members struggle with the concept of playing what the composer intended. Instead, they often strive to play it "better," interpreting it according to their tastes, often favoring cruder, more commercial sounds over the refined and conceptual music. In their eagerness to make the music more palatable, they may lose sight of the true musical vision.

Therefore, if you are to pursue a career in music, be prepared to face the challenges that come with it. It is more than just a passion—it is a demanding profession that requires dedication, discipline, and a clear understanding of the realities involved.