Ask the Recruiter

The answer depends on what you define as a career in music. Naturally, what most people think of first is performing, and when it comes to performing, there is no substitute for simply practicing and gaining live experience. No formal education is traditionally necessary, but the odds of attaining traditional success (i.e. fame and fortune) are very slim.

There are, however, a number of other careers in music besides performing. You may want to train for a fallback job if your performing career does not pan out.

I know at least three people who have or intend to have careers involving music, and each has chosen a different path to get there. One scores music for Hollywood films--he got a formal degree in music with a heavy emphasis on production and recording technology. Another teaches music. For that career, music education degrees are increasingly available. Finally, another wants to go into the retail music equipment business, so he is going to complement his music background with a bachelor's degree in business. Today you can even get a degree in music business online.

In short, having something to fall back on doesn't mean turning your back on your love for music. It simply means being open-minded about alternative ways of making a living in this competitive industry.