How to Earn Money as a Singer

If you have spent money training yourself to sing, there are several opportunities for you in your community to earn money as a singer. After all, why let those lessons go to waste, especially if you have talent?

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Audition as a church soloist. Many churches employ soloists for their Sunday services. They may also ask you to lead the choir or be a section leader in the choir. To find solo opportunities, see Step 2.

2. Most soloists are hired by word of mouth. Research the different denominational churches in your area to see which churches pay for soloists and then send those churches a letter of introduction and an offer to audition for them. If you don’t hear back, follow-up with a phone call. If they already have paid soloists, you can always offer to be added to their substitute list.

3. Another opportunity is singing in a local restaurant. Check out the Italian restaurants in your area to see if they have a piano or space for a piano in their dining room. Approach the restaurant owner with an offer to work for a small amount and tips.

4. Find an accompanist and create a partnership, then advertise to sing in weddings or at parties. You might even invite another singer to join you in duets and short opera scenes.

5. If you play a guitar, send letters to adult family homes to provide a music hour once a week for their residents. Adult family homes usually have a budgeted amount of money to provide this service to their clients.

Tips & Warnings

• If you get the opportunity to audition for a church solo position, make sure you bring a solo appropriate to that denomination. Not all Christian churches have the same beliefs, and can feel very particular about which solo you sing. It might be best for you to check with whoever will be auditioning you first to see if the solo you’ve chosen is appropriate.
• Once you have the opportunity to audition for someone, be sure you are well prepared. Be well dressed, well warmed up and on time. It’s important to make a good first impression.
• If possible, bring your own accompanist or arrange to meet with their accompanist for a rehearsal the day before. Accompanists need to follow you, but they could unintentionally trip you up if they are unfamiliar with your singing.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations for appropriate solos to bring to the audition.