Professional performers often have a degree or qualification in music, but people with other degrees and non-graduates can also be successful musicians if their ability is high enough.
A degree in music will give you the opportunity to develop your performance skills whilst at university/conservatoire, although some music degree courses may concentrate more on theory than practical playing - courses run by conservatoires may be more appropriate for performance/composition. Postgraduate courses in performance can help you develop performance skills and build a network of contacts - personal references are extremely important for getting work in the music field.
Musical directors will be looking for people with considerable experience, so take any opportunities to gain experience. Seek advice from musicians already working in your area and ask for introductions. For contemporary music you will need a good level of musical ability in your chosen instrument. It is not essential to know how to read music, but it can be an advantage, especially if you want to work as a session musician.
Many musicians start learning an instrument from an early age, although you can take part-time classes at many colleges, adult education centres, private music teachers and performing arts schools. Some of these may offer qualifications such as Rockschool popular music graded exams in: guitar; bass; drums; popular piano; vocals.
You could take a college or university course in popular music or music technology, although this is not essential. Relevant qualifications include BTEC National Certificates/Diplomas, BTEC HNC/HNDs or degrees. Check with colleges for exact entry requirements, as you may need to pass an audition to get onto some courses.
The most important thing, however, is to gain plenty of practical experience by playing with bands and doing gigs. When trying to break into the music business, you can approach record companies with a ‘demo’ CD or MP3 of your music. Companies receive thousands of demos so yours will need to stand out. See the BPI and Showcase websites for record company contact details.
It is now also common for bands and solo artists to showcase their music on networking websites. You could also get yourself noticed by entering talent competitions for bands.
Entry for orchestras and opera houses is through an audition followed by a trial period - this is not the same as a probationary period and it cannot be assumed that a permanent contract will follow. Orchestras keep lists of people whom they contact for freelance work as required. Entry to full-time posts is very competitive and you will probably need to build a musical career incorporating performance work in a number of different settings and groups, teaching and arranging music. It is advisable to write speculatively to the orchestral manager by name with a CV and introductory letter to obtain freelance work.
Many people start their careers by gaining experience on a freelance basis whilst teaching music.