The Value of Learning Music in an Era of High Competition
The modern world is a landscape fiercely competitive, particularly in the realm of music. From recording artists to musicians, the odds of success are staggeringly low. This article explores why learning to play music remains a valuable endeavor despite the high failure rates of published works and careers in the field.
Competition in the Music Industry
It's often said that only one book in two thousand sent to publishers finds its way to the bookstore shelves. The same low percentage applies to music CDs, DVDs, and computer games. This statistic underscores that the chances of being published or recognized in the music industry are exceptionally slim.
Music creation is not for the faint of heart, as it requires a significant investment of resources including a soundproof space. In a shared household, the noise generated from practicing or creating music can be a major source of disturbance to other family members, leading to conflict or even homelessness if not managed properly. The Rocketman movie offers a poignant illustration of this challenge.
Challenges of Playing Music at Home
Homes, especially those in terraced or semi-detached layouts, pose a significant challenge for musicians due to the disturbance they create. This is why many street musicians perform outdoors, where they can be heard and one of the reasons why they are often homeless due to noise complaints.
While playing music in a terraced or semi-detached house is discouraged, for those who are genuinely passionate, external spaces offer a viable option. However, it is unrealistic for most individuals to own a soundproof building attached to their residential property.
Choosing the Right Instrument
Even those who manage to overcome the practical challenges should consider the financial aspects. Learning the piano, guitar, or drums offers the best prospects in the commercial music industry. These instruments are typically required for lead roles in bands and are indispensable for pop music production. Drummers, while essential, usually play a supportive role, receiving smaller royalties compared to lead musicians.
Other instruments, while valuable for charity and religious orchestras, do not provide sufficient earning potential. For those aspiring to make a career in music, mastering the piano or guitar provides the best opportunities for financial success and artistic fulfillment.
Conclusion
While the odds of success in the music industry are daunting, the artistic and personal satisfaction derived from music remain unparalleled. For those with a true passion and a willingness to overcome the challenges, learning an instrument can be a transformative journey. Whether it's through public performance, record deals, or simply the joy of personal expression, the value of learning music extends far beyond the immediate statistics of failure.