How to become a musicians and singer
Play one or more musical instruments or sing. May perform on stage, for broadcasting, or for sound or video recording.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
What musicians and singers do
- Perform before live audiences in concerts, recitals, educational presentations, and other social gatherings.
- Practice performances, individually or in rehearsal with other musicians, to master individual pieces of music or to maintain and improve skills.
- Specialize in playing a specific family of instruments or a particular type of music.
- Play musical instruments as soloists, or as members or guest artists of musical groups such as orchestras, ensembles, or bands.
- Provide the musical background for live shows, such as ballets, operas, musical theatre, and cabarets.
- Play from memory or by following scores.
Skills that matter most
- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Monitoring
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Writing
- Active Learning
- Learning Strategies
Is musicians and singer a good career?
On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 95% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- Nevada $136,157
- North Carolina $120,557
- Minnesota $111,571
- Illinois $110,490
- Hawaii $109,387
Musicians and Singers salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.