Have you ever read an article where some famous music teacher says words like these to the young, unsuspecting music student:

“You should only choose a career in music if you love it more than anything else.”

Or maybe something like this:

“A career in music isn’t easy, so if you have anything else you can do, do that instead.”

I read an article the other day that was loaded with famous musicians (some were oboe players) saying this type of stuff and it really made me think.

Is this really how it has to be? Is this true?

Is pursuing a career in music really so bleak?

My short answer is no.

You don’t have to agree with me, but if you want music to be part of your “career” and are a bit apprehensive about jumping in, then at least consider these thoughts…

Musicians by nature are supposed to be creative. That means we can see (or hear) things that others can’t or don’t. We don’t just take what we’re given and play the notes on the page.

We can see potential. We can hear potential. We can dream about how something could be and then make it real.

So why not apply that skill to your life and career? You don’t need the paycheck of a major symphony or the gig contractor to give you that permission. You have it already.

You just have to do it.

How do you know if you should pursue a career in music?

You should do it, if you want to do it.

Life is too short to let others’ opinions limit your happiness.

You are already the one standing up there conducting your own life. You get to decide how it goes. It’s just part of being the boss