How to Get Started in the Music Business

So many people talk about having a career in the music business, but few people have the guts to go out and play in a band or even learn how to sing or play an instrument. If you harbor fantasies about singing, playing, producing or even managing a band, resources to help you get started abound. Consider the following tips to set you on the right path.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Figure out your passion before you get started in the music business. If you're the outgoing type, consider being a singer or front person in a band. If you love music for the sheer sound of it, try playing the piano or producing. Whatever your passion, pick up an instrument right away and take lessons.

2. Get together with other musicians. Put an ad on Craigslist.org or in your local alternative paper. Ask other people at school or in your local music organization if they'd like to form a group. Study the information on Bemuso.com, Starpolish.com and other music industry sites.

3. Practice. Learn your instrument and write songs. Don't try to perfect your compositions too much. The main goal should be getting out in public and playing for an audience and, of course, recording the songs you've written.

4. Attend an arts management course or take business classes if you decide on a behind-the-scenes music business career like public relations or entertainment law. You don't need a four year degree to work behind the scenes, but it helps. Get a ground level job at a marketing firm or record label and work your way up. Check out books like "The Music Business Handbook and Career Guide" by David Baskerville for insider tips.

5. Create a MySpace page and website. Use all the marketing tools available to get the word out about your group or about your skills as a manager or entertainment lawyer. Network with music industry people, at shows, at seminars and business meetings to help get started in the music business.

Resources

• Read the
• Get your music heard by professionals at Taxi.com.