Getting started in music...

Cracking the music industry is notoriously difficult, and staying ahead of the ahead of the game is even more of a challenge. However, with growing pressure on the creative sectors to lead Britain out of recession, now could be a better time than ever to start a career in music.

According to PRS for Music – an association of composers, songwriters and music publishers in the UK – the total value of the music business in 2008 was £3.5 billion, a five per cent increase on the previous year. In other words: 'the pie got bigger'.

Launching a music career may not be easy, but statistics show there is definitely money to be made.

Get your music signed

Whether you sing, play the guitar or DJ, the way to make money in the music industry is to get signed with a record label.

Many artists have been discovered performing at local pubs and clubs, so book yourself a spot at an open mic evening. This will increase your chances of getting noticed by a talent agency, and also build up a fan base for your act. The key is to get your name established on the local music scene so that someone, somewhere, will mention your name to a talent scout.

Create a demo CD with a selection of your own tracks. Try promoting your CD at local record shops or even hand them out after gigs. The music market is a noisy one, so you must work to get your voice heard.

“Labels are always on the lookout for groups who have already started the ball rolling on their own by selling an independent release or have great rep in their local market,” writes Ian Steaman, A&R and marketing executive for Tommy Boy Records.

“The best way to get noticed is to take the time to develop your music and your stage show. When it's at a level where you feel it's competitive with what's out in the marketplace, consider moving to a larger market that has a somewhat more developed music scene where you can attract attention and build a larger profile for your act.”

Music qualifications

"I wish there had been a music business 101 course I could have taken."
Kurt Cobain, Nirvana

Although there is no formal route for getting into the music industry, there are hundreds of courses across the country that can better equip budding musicians for the journey. Experience and practical skills are highly desired in the sector but qualifications can also boost your chances.

There are currently two ways students can study music at university: in theory or in practice:

• those who want to study the theoretical aspects of music should apply through UCAS
• those wanting to embark on a hands-on course, which are taught at UK conservatories, should apply through CUKAS.

Courses run on both a full-time and part-time basis, so students do not have to sacrifice working to pursue their musical ambitions. If you have already completed a degree, you may consider a post-graduate course to specialise in a specific area.

Reality check

When embarking on a career in the music industry, even the most qualified and talented musicians are in for a tough time.

Aspiring musicians should bear in mind that, despite their ability, they may need to start at the bottom in unpaid positions before working their way up. Expect long periods of unemployment.

Mather Knowles, manager of Destiny's Child, told Jet magazine: “Breaking into the music industry won't guarantee riches overnight … On average it takes five years from the day you get a record deal to the day there is a financial reward.”

“You've got to have passion, think out of the box and have basic fundamental business knowledge.”

Luckily, there is no age limit on becoming a musician. If a career in music really is your dream, there is no excuse not to go for it!

Useful information

BBC’s New Talent offers essential tips on starting out in music

Some independent advice and guidance on music law

The MAG’s route to the music industry

Guidelines on noise regulation from SoundAdvice