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Performers in popular or classical music field play one or more instruments - or sing - usually to an exceptionally high standard. They would normally both perform live and make recordings. Other musicians work as composers, teachers, music therapists, administrators, publishers, recording company executives, instrument manufacturers, librarians, broadcasters or journalists.

Indeed, many musicians combine some of these activities, especially those who perform, record and teach. The work for classical musicians might include playing in groups ranging from a small ensemble or chamber orchestra, right up to a full-size symphony orchestra. There is also a wide variety of session work, with musicians being booked by the hour or by the day to work on recordings, advertisements, film scores and backing tracks for singers.

Popular musicians also play a musical instrument and/or sing. They would normally perform a certain style of music, such as rock, pop, jazz, folk, country and western, world or 'easy listening' music. In addition to performing live, they might make recordings in their own name or undertake session work.

All musicians must be prepared to practise regularly, to learn new pieces of work and, where appropriate, to arrange performance schedules and travel plans.

Entry level

There is no single training route and no two career paths will be the same. You may acquire an impressive set of qualifications but these will not automatically bring work: experience and 'being known' are just as likely to gain you employment or at least get you as far as an audition.

Classical musicians need extensive musical education and training, often to postgraduate level. You would probably have learned to play one or more instruments from an early age and passed various graded examinations. You could then continue with a specialist course in a recognised college of music - known as a 'conservatoire' - or take a music degree course at a university or higher education institution.

University degree courses may concentrate on the academic and theoretical side of music more than the practical playing side, whereas courses run by conservatoires are more focused on a performing career. The minimum academic entry requirements are usually two A levels/H grades, or equivalent, including music. In addition, you often need at least grade eight in your first instrument, and sometimes grade six in your second. Auditions and interviews form part of the selection process.

There are many postgraduate courses available, including those for performance, composition and conducting. If you want to become a school music teacher, you would normally take a degree in music followed by a Postgraduate Certificate in Education.

It is also possible to train as a classical musician with the Royal Marines, Army and RAF schools of music, where musical education is combined with basic military and first-aid training. A high standard on one instrument is needed and entry is by audition.

There is no set training for popular musicians, although there are some courses, including those at the Brit School in Croydon, the only UK state-funded academy for the performing arts for students aged 14 to 19.

Making the grade

As well as formal qualifications, you would need to make a name for yourself as a classical musician by entering competitions, gaining bursaries and awards, attending auditions, participating in special schemes for young artists, joining amateur groups, and perhaps giving free concerts. Progress is often slow and steady, and it may take many years for a career to mature. Even then, continuous practice is necessary to maintain high standards.

In popular music, it is important to gain as much performing experience as possible, while trying to get noticed by record companies and the broadcast media. The ability to read music by singing or playing can be an advantage if you aim to pursue a career as a session musician. Prospects depend on a combination of talent, hard work and good luck.

Personal qualities

To succeed as a classical musician, you would need to be totally dedicated to your demanding and all-consuming profession. You would also have to be talented, thoroughly trained, self-disciplined and hardworking, with enormous reserves of patience, energy and stamina. You must be dedicated to constant practice and learning, and prepared to work in a variety of environments.

Similar qualities would be needed for popular music, with the addition that you might want to develop a style that makes you stand out from the crowd.