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10 Steps to Becoming a Musician

Are you passionate about music and wondering how to become a musician?

Pursuing a career in music can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires hard work, dedication, and a lot of practice. In this article, we’ll explore ten steps you can take to become a successful musician.

1. Choose Your Instrument

The first step to becoming a musician is to choose your instrument. Whether it’s the guitar, piano, drums, or something else entirely, you need to find an instrument that you enjoy playing and that you’re willing to practice for hours on end.

2. Take Lessons

Once you’ve chosen your instrument, it’s time to start taking lessons. While you can certainly teach yourself how to play, taking lessons from a professional musician can help you develop proper technique and avoid bad habits that could hold you back in the future.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice

As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. If you want to become a successful musician, you need to practice your instrument every day. Set aside a specific time each day for practice and stick to it, even if you only have a few minutes to spare.

4. Join a Band

Joining a band is a great way to gain experience playing with other musicians and to start building a fan base. Look for local bands in your area that are looking for new members or consider starting your own band.

5. Perform Live

Performing live is an essential part of becoming a musician. Look for opportunities to play at local venues, cafes, and bars. The more you perform, the more comfortable you’ll become on stage, and the more fans you’ll attract.

6. Record Your Music

Recording your music is an important step in building your brand and getting your music out to a wider audience. Consider recording a demo or even a full-length album to showcase your skills and attract new fans.

7. Build Your Online Presence

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for musicians. Create social media accounts and a website where fans can listen to your music, learn more about you, and stay up-to-date on your latest news and performances.

8. Network with Other Musicians

Networking with other musicians can help you learn about new opportunities and gain valuable insights into the music industry. Attend industry events, join online forums, and connect with other musicians on social media.

9. Learn the Business Side of Music

While it’s important to focus on your music, it’s also important to understand the business side of the music industry. Learn about contracts, royalties, and copyright law to protect your music and make sure you get paid for your work.

10. Stay Committed

Becoming a successful musician takes time, hard work, and dedication. Stay committed to your craft, and don’t give up on your dreams, even when things get tough.

Career or Education

If you’re serious about pursuing a career in music, consider enrolling in a music program at a college or university. New York University, for example, offers a variety of music programs through its Tisch School of the Arts and Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. These programs can provide you with the education, training, and connections you need to succeed in the music industry.


Key Takeaways

  • Choose your instrument and take lessons from a professional musician.
  • Practice your instrument every day and join a band to gain experience.
  • Perform live and record your music to build your brand and attract new fans.
  • Build a strong online presence and network with other musicians.
  • Learn the business side of music and stay committed to your craft.

If you’re interested in learning more about the music industry, consider taking the NYU x Billboard | Music Industry Essentials online course and certificate program. This program, offered by Yellowbrick in partnership with NYU and Billboard, can provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the music industry.

Enter your email to learn more and get a full course catalog!

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