There is a wide variety of potential career paths in music, but given the interest in the field and limited number of positions in each area of music, developing a successful career can be tough. 

Building a career as a performer or composer generally involves getting out and doing it, writing songs, promoting yourself online and playing concerts. In some genres such as classical music and jazz there is a more formal process, with auditions and training, but ultimately it will come down to your skill.

Career opportunities with music are far broader than simply singing or playing an instrument they include; Songwriter, Music Therapist, Session Musician, DJ, Record Producer, Background Singer, Radio DJ, Lyricist, Production Music Writer, Conductor, Recording Engineer, Music Teacher, Music Director, Singer (Vocalist), Production Music, Composer, Programme Director and Music Journalist. 

Beyond performance and composing there is the technical and management side of the industry; musicians need support staff, people to promote and book concerts, tour managers and agents to keep the show on the road. Often people working in these roles will themselves have extensive experience in the music industry, developing the knowledge and skill to help musicians navigate their career.

Often roles in many professionally related areas such as legal services will require less music industry experience and will instead rest on the application of legal expertise to the music industry.