Learn music

Whether you're pursuing music as a hobby or a career, there are countless opportunities to explore. Read on to discover how to get started learning music.

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Why learn music?

When people think of learning music, they often think of learning to play an instrument. While this is certainly part of music, many other skills and supporting jobs are available, including music producer, composer, music video director, and songwriter.

Musical skills can be self-taught, though a more in-depth music theory education can help sharpen talent. Learning a new instrument can take between a few months to a few years to gain basic competency, while mastering an instrument takes significantly longer. Learning the skills for a supporting career may take months to years, depending on the position.

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Choosing the right music program for you

If you're looking to learn a new instrument for recreational purposes, choose the instrument in which you're most interested. Take into account the cost of the instrument, its required maintenance, and the availability of courses and instructors. Determine if you'll require in-person or remote instruction and the intensity of the program, depending on your goals.

Here are different options available to start learning music today.

Courses

Music courses allow you to dial in on the exact area of music you want to learn more about.

Certifications

Musical certifications provide confidence that you've fully learned a topic and have the knowledge to exercise those skills.

Executive education programs

Executive education programs allow people with busy careers to learn the music business in a schedule-sensitive environment.

Degrees

Degrees in music give students the ultimate education that goes beyond the practical side of music and teaches the underlying theory needed for a deeper understanding.

Jobs in music

There are a multitude of jobs in music besides just being a musical artist.

Students who choose a career playing an instrument or singing often work "gigs," which are one-off performances at varying locations like weddings, special events, and festivals. Performers may also work at a fixed location as part of an orchestra, house band, or theme park.

Careers supporting musicians may include work in music studios, television and movie studios, touring with an act, or in a traditional office setting.

For students looking to advance their education, higher-level degrees may be a good option. Some of the more popular options in music include a master's in music, a master's in music education, and a master's in music scoring and composition.

Below, you'll find a few of the more popular careers in music.

Composer

Composers write and arrange music for orchestras, bands, TV shows, movies, and musical productions. Additionally, composers may lead an orchestra in the performance or recording of these compositions.

Required education: Bachelor's degree
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2023): $62,590

Director

Music video directors work with TV, commercial, and movie producers to select the right music to support the director's vision.

Required education: Bachelor's degree
BLS median annual salary (2023):$82,510

Singer

Singers perform individually or with a supporting band. Popular settings where singers work include lounges, concert halls, cruise ships, special events, weddings, and festivals.

Required education: None
BLS median annual salary (2023):$39.14 per hour

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FAQs about music

Why should I learn music?

Learning music can be a rewarding experience, whether you're doing it for fun or to get a job. Music provides an outlet for creativity and the chance to work in unique places or on unique projects. With an education in music, you may find yourself working on a national commercial, performing on a cruise ship around the world, or supporting a big-name artist on a worldwide tour.

How long does it take to learn music?

Learning an instrument takes a few months to a few years to grasp the basics, but significantly longer to master. The timeline is heavily dependent on the quality of your teaching and the intensity of your practice. Learning the skills needed for a career in music may take several months to several years, depending on the particular field.

How hard is it to learn music?

The difficulty of learning to play a musical instrument depends on the instrument you choose and your natural talents. Learning music skills is generally not regarded as overly challenging, but does require diligent study and experience to master.

Published June 17, 2025