How can I make money as a pianist?

Answer 1

You have to be really good and dedicated. I have worked my entire life to be a successful pianist. I had the best teachers every where I was, I practiced countless hours, and studied theory and history consistently. I continue to practice 5 hours a day to master the skills.

To be honest, it's hard, almost impossible. I graduated from a prestigious music conservatory from New York a few years back. Of all the pianist I graduated with, only a few of us have careers that are stable. I teach at a conservatory, I continue to perform solo, chamber, and with orchestra, and I judge festivals. But this is a result of hard work, net working, and patience. I have many friends who are pianists who have no careers yet they may have been more talented than me.

If you want to just make money? Then quit. Playing the piano is not about making money, it's about loving music. If you are in it for the money, then close your piano lid, walk away, and do something else. Those who are successful at the piano do not think of the money, we think of the art and thus are rewarded for all of our years of hard work and dedication.

Answer 2

You can't! Just kidding, but it is something you do for the love.

You can obviously teach. You might want to specialize in a particular style, age group, or something like that for teaching. If you are good at improvization, or accompaniment, etc., then do that. The really good teachers plunge all the way in -- they don't just teach one lesson at a time but they have programs, take field trips with their students, rent out a recital hall once or twice a year for the student recital.

Depending on where you live there are jobs playing jazz, loungy, and classical music in restaurants. You can do social engagements. You could start a band -- where I live a jazz trio earns about $100 per night per musician, twice that for a corporate event or a wedding. But you pay for your own transportation, equipment. And you really have to hustle to get bookings. Something has to set you apart, some reason why people want you.

You might start by volunteering or working for lower wages, say at a local community college, church, helping underprivileged kids, giving a free concert program, etc.

It all feeds on itself. If you're a teacher, your students will pay come see you perform. If someone likes your peformance they may ask if you teach. If you're on the faculty of a music school, even an adjunct faculty, it gives you credibility.

Answer 3

Good luck with this one. If you're extremely good, you can get work playing in lounges or with bands. If you're looking to play more classical music AND are a good sight reader, you can make money accompanying choirs and conservatory students. Playing for ballet classes is also an option, but you won't get rich that way.


Playing professionally is a tough way to make a living. I would only pursue it if you feel compelled. You can always find outlets for playing as an amateur and that's why it doesn't pay so well. There are a whole bunch of folks who are willing to do it for free.

Answer 4

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Answer 5

piano bars are becoming very popular also weddings usually have a pianist or organist

Answer 6

Our relative makes a great living from giving lessons.
You could apply to work at night clubs.
Sit a pretty lady on top of your baby grand and let her sing!

Answer 7

I agree with Melly Mel

Answer 8

Perform at parties and social events, weddings, etc.

Answer 9

write AMAZIGN songs. make them great and sell them to artist

Answer 10

you could be a piano mover.