How to Make a Living as a Solo Musician

Many freelance solo musicians take a variety of jobs and gigs to make ends meet.

Making a living as a solo musician is difficult, but not impossible. The most successful solo musicians divide their time between a number of different musical activities, such as teaching, playing in bands, accompanying other instruments and playing in local venues. Some supplement their incomes with a day job. To make a living as a solo musician, you need to market yourself to as many different clients as possible. Treat your art like a business, and money will start coming in.

Instructions

1. Play gigs with other musicians. Even if you are not part of a band, there are still many gigs to be had in bands and ensembles. You can find bands or music groups in the classified sections of newspapers, or in online classified ads. Word of mouth is also important as a musician -- if you get one regular gig, it will eventually lead to others.

2. Work as an accompanying musician. This is different from playing in a band because when you accompany, a solo musician (or small group) hires you as a supporting musician. You are not part of the group; you simply play and leave. Many music departments at high schools and colleges are in need of accompanists -- you can inquire at their offices or email their faculty to find out about these opportunities.

3. Get a church gig. Many musicians, no matter what their religious preference, play regular gigs at local churches. These can pay well and often lead to other gigs or teaching opportunities. Many churches post ads in a newspaper or on their website; for others, you may have to call the church to see if there are available openings.

4. Record and sell CDs. You can record music in your own home with the proper tools, or you can rent out a recording studio. Though it may cost several hundred dollars or more to record a CD, you will be able to make the money back over time by selling CDs at gigs and online. Having CDs makes you look more professional, and it helps you advertise your abilities. While you're at it, register your songs for copyright protection before you record them -- this could save you a lot of trouble down the road.

5. Teach lessons. Many musicians make good money instructing children or adults who wish to learn an instrument. Set up a teaching studio in your home, or offer to travel to your students' homes if you do not have the facilities.

6. Market yourself. Create a website, post ads online, put up flyers for your shows around town, and introduce yourself to people. If you can afford it or can find someone who will do it for free, get a personal manager. A manager can worry about booking and marketing while leaving you free to practice your art.

Tips & Warnings

• Always be polite and courteous at gigs -- otherwise, you may not get called back.

References

• Idea Marketers: Tips For the Solo Musician
• Music Biz Academy: Ten Essential Ways For Making a Living With Your Music
• Musician Wages: Average Income of a Musician