CAREERS IN MUSIC
Like all performing arts, the chances of rising through the ranks to be a 'maestro' are generally slim. However, there are plenty of opportunities for a fulfilling career in music. For example, a good pianist with a repertoire of popular and classical material can make a good living in the hospitality field - pianists at top hotels, bars and clubs can earn exceptional fees.
A good violinist with exemplary sight-reading skills will always find a place in at least a modest but lucrative ensemble at least -- maybe even a symphony orchestra. Accomplished session musicians are always in great demand. And that's regardless of what instrument they play.
You will need some pretty dogged determination to make it to the top of your field. The classical musician will generally need to sit a huge amount of practical and theory examinations in music and achieve good pass marks. A popular musician of serious acclaim might not have to do anything but be able to play intuitively; like a bass guitar player or drummer who has had no formal training, but to whom the instrument comes naturally, generally from very early years.
There a many music academies that will further the talent and outlook for aspiring career musicians, regardless of their instrument or field. One only has to look at some of the modern 'reality' talent shows on the television these days to see musicians of quite serious ability coming through to fame from no formal musical or training background.
The decision to become a formal classical musician will generally be formed at quite and early age. For the popular musician, one can never be too late!