How can you become a better singer and make a decent wage

It’s not unheard of that many people consider the entertainment industry a tough one, but how can you become a better singer and earn a decent wage? Is it possible, what are the facts really?

Well according to the United States Department of Labor here are some of the statistics:

Quick Facts: Musicians and Singers

Now this is an interesting series of facts and figures but what does it really mean?
The Bureau of Labor has a few distinctions that might help explain some of the numbers and elements of this table.
So lets start with basics – What do Singers and Musicians do?

Musicians and singers play instruments or sing for live audiences and in recording studios. They perform in a variety of styles, such as classical, jazz, opera, rap, or rock.

What is their work environment?

Musicians and singers often perform in settings such as concert halls, arenas, and clubs. They often work in religious organizations and performing arts companies; others are self-employed.

How can you become a singer or musician? – This is what the Department of Labor says…

Educational and training requirements for musicians and singers vary. There are no formal education requirements for musicians and singers interested in performing popular music, but those interested in performing classical and opera typically need at least a bachelor’s degree.

So what does that mean to you and me? There aren’t any formal qualifications recognised across the board for you to become a professional singer. Obviously as with all things there can be a degree of continuing professional development, such as simple voice exercises for singing and ways to improve your singing voice. But isn’t that just par for the course?

Let’s get down to the nitty gritty. Many people say you can’t make a living singing, but what do the US national statistics say?

The median hourly wage of musicians and singers was $22.39 in May 2010.

So a few years ago the median (middle) wage was $22.39. On average would this pay your bills? And on the flip of that would you be happy with someone paying you $22.39 per hour part-time for you to do something you love?

And what about the prospects of singing – what does the Bureau say about that?

Job Outlook

Employment of musicians and singers is expected to grow 10 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Expected growth will be due to increases in demand for musical performances. However, strong competition is expected for jobs because of the large number of workers who are interested in becoming musicians or singers.

So surprisingly the Department of Labor see the employment levels of singers and musicians to grow by 10% from 2010 onwards. Is that scary… or is that encouraging?

From all the things my parents, friends and colleagues have warned me about over the years, it seems that they may of been a little bit misguided – according to these statistics.

As a final point are you interested in what the Department has to say about Training and Advancement as a singer?

Again this is from the US occupational outlook handbook:

How can you become a better singer?

Training

Musicians and singers need extensive and prolonged training and practice to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to interpret music at a professional level. They typically begin singing or learning to play an instrument by taking lessons and classes when they are children. In addition, they must practice often to develop their talent and technique.

Musicians and singers interested in classical music may seek additional training through music camps and fellowships. These programs provide participants with classes, lessons, and performance opportunities. Sometimes these programs are associated with professional orchestras and may lead to a permanent spot in that orchestra.

Advancement

As with other occupations in which people perform, advancement for musicians and singers means becoming better known, finding work more easily, and earning more money for each performance. Successful musicians and singers often rely on agents or managers to find them jobs, negotiate contracts, and develop their careers.

Important Qualities

Discipline. Talent is not enough for most musicians and singers to find employment in this field. They must constantly practice and seek to improve their technique, style, and performances.

I guess this is of no surprise when you look at how can you become a better singer and make a living at doing it. The Bureaus point on this as a profession could be applied to most professions.

But if singing is your passion, and you really do enjoy it – even as a part-time occupation – there does appear to be growing opportunities out there. At least according to the United States Department of Labor.

Here’s a way you can help

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