Is it too late for me to pursue a career in music?

Question

I was thinking of piano performance, maybe composition in the future.

I'm 15 and going to be a junior in high school. I've been playing piano for a while, but I never really understood the personal connection that I had to it until I quit a year ago.

I'm starting lessons again, and am working on Clair De Lune, but is it feasible for me to try and focus on music now? Should I be more advanced for my age to even think about music as a profession?

If I work really, really hard in the next two years?

I love the piano. But I know there are so many prodigies out there. Should I just give up this crazy dream and focus on something like... medicine?

Answer 1

That's really not a question that any of us can answer for you.

Do you WANT a career in music?

If you want to train classically, the only thing limiting you is your talent.  You need to start looking at colleges and conservatories now.  Start looking at audition requirements.  Get a teacher.  

And becoming a (classical) composer is not something people just fall into.  Start a portfolio now and learn orchestration techniques.

And practice like h**l, because the clock is against you.

Answer 2

Logistically speaking, no it's not too late.  Beyond a career as a concert pianist, piano players can ALWAYS find employment as set musicians, pit musicians, accompanists, cocktail/dining pianists, and on and on, and if you want a career, you can have it if you can play. Finding that "connection" at 15 is a rare gift.  I wish you all the best.

Answer 3

no

Answer 4

It is never to late

Answer 5

Hi Dreamer.  :)   If you are asking if it is too late to give up your dream....  even if it is a new one...   I would have to ask you.....  do you want to?     It is not too late to work hard.  It is not too late to make that commitment to be what you want to be.  It is not too late to prove to yourself that you have what it takes to be a wonderful pianist and musician.  NO.... it is not to late to pursue a career in music....  after all.... you don't have a career now anyway.... so getting prepared for one is absolutely what you want to do... and at 15,  it is the best time to decide on one.   Good for you.  You are going to be GREAT!!!  Best of luck and you Seize the day!!!