Placement Overview

This self-employed musician performs a variety of session work alongside working within a music store. Their primary instrument is the Guitar and this VIP is in two bands, one rock and one jazz.

Generic Job Description for a Musician

A musician is someone who sings or performs music for the enjoyment of an audience. This can include being a member of a band, group or classical orchestra, or being a solo artist or performer.

Musicians usually specialise in a type of music or play a specific musical instrument. This can be done in front of a live audience or recorded in a studio.

The music business is a demanding one. Many people are musically talented but very few manage to make music their full time career. Many musicians perform in their spare time, in addition to a full time career in another field.

Skills:

• Musical talent
• Determination
• Confidence
• Discipline
• Creativity
• The ability to cope with criticism

Pay:

• Musicians are often self-employed
• Salaries vary widely, few musicians rely on music for their sole income
• An established solo musician on tour can earn up to £2000 per week

Please not that salary figures are a guide only. Actual salaries may vary depending on the organisation and geographical location

Hours:

• Hours are often long and irregular
• Evening and weekend work is common
• Additional time is required for practice 

Environment:

• Working environments vary depending on the type of performance
• Many performances take place in noisy, smoky conditions
• Travel to gigs and performances is common 

Qualifications:

• No set entry requirements
• Qualifications at all levels are available in music and may provide a better chance of success
• A demo CD is essential for approaching record companies or getting gigs

Training:

• There is no set training for becoming a musician
• Full and part-time music courses are available including BTEC courses
• Continuous practice and skills development is essential

Opportunities:

• There are only around 1500 full time musicians working in the UK
• Many musicians work on a part-time basis in addition to another job
• The majority of opportunities are based around large cities such as London 

Links:

www.ism.org - Incorporated Society of Musicians

www.musiciansunion.org.uk - Musicians Union

www.brit.croydon.sch.uk - The Brit School for Performing Arts and Technology

www.equity.org.uk - Equity

www.liv.ac.uk/music - Institute of Popular Music