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Perform music professionally in concerts, studios, and events. Play one or more musical instruments or sing, whether on stage, for broadcasting, or for sound and video recording.
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Lower reported wage
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Not available in our data
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Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.
A verified range is not available in our data. A missing figure does not mean that the source does not publish it.

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Create free account →No single degree or license is required for performers; some specialized jobs have different rules. [1]
Search CareerOneStop by occupation and state, then confirm the rules with the issuing agency. Coverage is incomplete; an empty result does not mean no license is required.
About license data coverageRehearsals and early performances may be unpaid or paid per engagement; ask before accepting.
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U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
BLS OOH reports musicians and singers (27-2042) at a median $47.80 per hour for May 2025. Part-time and intermittent work are common. An annual wage is unavailable from this hourly evidence; multiplying by assumed annual hours would not establish annual earnings. Reviewed October 27, 2026. Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/entertainment-and-sports/musicians-and-singers.htm . Employment and growth retain their existing source periods.
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Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
Rehearse and perform music live or in recordings, often with other performers. [1]
Musicians work in venues, studios, schools, and other performance settings. [1]
Work is often part time or irregular, including nights, weekends, and travel. [1]
Auditions, repeated practice, physical technique, and variable income require persistence. [1]
A broader repertoire and professional network may bring more performances or teaching opportunities. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.