What are the basic necessities for becoming a musician?

1. 96

   Cardisaposted 13 years ago

   What are the basic necessities for becoming a musician?

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2. 74

   thesingernurseposted 13 years ago

   Basically, you just have to own a passion for it. Then next, work on the skills you are good at. Like in my case, I don't know how to play the guitar or any instrument. However, I know how to sing and weave words and tunes in to songs so that's where I am currently working on to develop.

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3. 60

   Brightbloggerposted 13 years ago

   It depends on what field of music you're trying to be in. But you have to have a passion for it. With passion the music that you make won't just be lyrics it'll be something personal and people will feel the emotion. Along with passion you must have dedication and be very consistent. But that's the same as any other occupation you wish to pursue.

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4. 83

   Marcy Goodfleischposted 13 years ago

   I agree with the other comments here. I think you also need discipline and a lot of practice. It's often frustrating to go over the same musical passage several times, trying to get the timing right or just the right emphasis.
   
   If you play with others (as in a band), you need the teamwork spirit in order to be a contributor to the band rather  than a 'star,' - if all band members wanted to be the star, it would be a cacophony. Naturally one might be the lead in a given piece. But the rest of the band needs to perform as a unit to support the lead, not compete.

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5. 69

   xethonxqposted 13 years ago

   Ummm...knowing how to play something or sing would be #1...then persistently practice.

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6. 68

   mothsongposted 13 years ago

   You need to be passionate about music and develop skills on an instrument or voice. You will need to practise for many hours every week to hone your skills. You also need to perform in front of an audience at every opportunity as it can be very nerve wracking even when performing as part of a group. Record yourself when you practise so that you can hear if you are performing effectively and adding in expression and dynamics where they should be. You need to have a good ear for music and it can help (but is not a necessity) to be able to read music, depending on the type of solo or ensemble performance you wish to partake in.

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7. 71

   Angela Blairposted 13 years ago

   If you're looking at being a musician for a HOBBY -- decide what you want to do whether play an instrument, sing, etc. and find the best teacher you can find. If you have a natural singing voice develop a unique style that will attract attention -- and practice, practice, practice whatever your choice -- same goes if you play an instrument.
   
   If looking to be a PROFESSIONAL  musician the first thing you'll need is a full bucket of "want to" -- it's a tough business. Once you're in that place go full steam ahead in every direction you can to get your talent out there and heard. Talent isn't necessary if one has lots of $$$ and a huge promotion machine behind them -- think Taylor Swift. If that's not the case and you've mastered your art enough to get out among 'em -- associate with every musician you can -- it's amazing how beneficial networking among musicians is. Bottom line -- talent is a huge advantage but hard work and great good luck might even be bigger.

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