40 Ways To Make Money As a Musician

It’s more difficult than ever to make money in the music field, but difficult doesn’t mean impossible! There are also many more opportunities than ever before. Who knew 20 years ago that for a few dollars, you could make your music available all over the world?

I’ve been in this business for three decades as a performer, teacher, entrepreneur, author, educator, speaker and lecturer. It’s the only career I’ve had and I love it!

There once was a time where you could make a living as a full time performer. A few made it through the ranks and were sponsored by a record label. Many made it on their own through intensive networking or by getting a gig as part of a “house band.”

You still can make it as a full time performer today. However, realistically, you are more likely to make it as a musician if you have several streams of income.

Some of the items in this book will be obvious. They are all meant to be adapted to fit YOU. Some can be done full time; most are suited to just part time.

Each idea concludes with three sections:

1) Real Life: A realistic expectation of what this idea can generate in cash. It may also list the realities of what I have made doing this or what I have seen others make.

2) Take it to the next level: Some outside the box thinking in relation to this idea.

3) Skills you’ll need: What you should have at least an average knowledge about to implement this idea. I’ve also included some things that would be more temperament or personality related here.

This book is not meant to be an all-inclusive list. There should be many ideas that fit your personality. Try them. See what works.

Very few people get to do what they love to do. You are one of them.

Happy Music Making,

James Divine