Published on 1 August 2023 9 min read

Network in the music industry
Create a professional music portfolio
Gain experience through volunteering
Apply for music jobs online
Attend music auditions
Improve your music skills
Keep up to date on industry trends
Learn about music marketing
Consider music internships
Stay motivated and resilient

Ever wondered how to get a job in music with no experience? Let's be honest, it can feel like trying to catch a star with a butterfly net. But don't worry, even the most successful musicians started somewhere. With a bit of know-how and a whole lot of grit, you too can break into the industry. Here's a list of tips to help you navigate the path to your dream job in music, even if you're just starting out.

Network in the Music Industry

Networking is the lifeblood of any industry, and music is no exception. It's not just about who you know, but who knows you. Here's how to get your foot in the door:

Attend Music Events: Whether it's a local gig, an open mic night, or a music festival, get out there and mingle. You never know who you might bump into. Musicians, producers, and even talent scouts often frequent these events.
Join Music Groups: There are heaps of online and offline music groups. These platforms are a great way to meet like-minded individuals, learn from their experiences, and even collaborate on projects. Consider joining a group that aligns with your musical interests.
Engage on Social Media: In the digital age, social media plays a critical role in networking. Follow, interact, and engage with musicians, producers, and music companies on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. But remember, always keep it professional!
Build Relationships: Networking isn't just about getting a job in music with no experience. It's about creating long-lasting relationships. Be genuine, show interest in others, and provide value whenever you can. Good relationships can open doors you didn't even know existed.

In the music industry, opportunities often come from unexpected places. You might meet a music producer at a local gig, or a band looking for a new member in an online group. So, don't be shy — put yourself out there, and start building your network today!

Create a Professional Music Portfolio

Think of your music portfolio as your musical resume. It's a collection of your work that showcases your skills, talents, and style. Here's how to create a portfolio that can turn heads:

Gather Your Best Work: Your portfolio should include your best pieces. These could be original songs, covers, or collaborations. The key is to showcase your range and versatility as a musician.
Record Quality Audio: Poor sound quality can be a deal-breaker. Invest in a good microphone and learn some basic audio editing skills. Remember, your portfolio is a reflection of your professionalism.
Include a Bio: A brief bio can help people connect with you on a personal level. Share your musical journey, your inspirations, and your aspirations. But keep it short and sweet.
Keep it Updated: Regularly add new content to your portfolio. This shows that you're active, dedicated, and constantly improving your skills.

Having a professional music portfolio is a powerful tool when you're figuring out how to get a job in music with no experience. It allows potential employers to see and hear your capabilities, and it gives them a sense of who you are as an artist. So, don't wait. Start building your music portfolio today, and let your talent do the talking!

Gain Experience Through Volunteering

Now, you might be thinking, "How do I get experience if no one will hire me without it?" Well, volunteering is a fantastic way to gain that much-needed experience. Here's how you can do it:

Offer to Perform at Local Events: Many community events, charities, and festivals are always on the lookout for performers. This not only gives you stage experience but also exposes you to a wider audience.
Volunteer at Music Festivals: Music festivals often need volunteers for various roles. While you might not be on stage, you'll learn the ins and outs of event management, which is a valuable skill in the music industry.
Teach Music: If you're good at your craft, why not teach others? You could volunteer at a local school or community center. This will improve your own understanding of music and give you the satisfaction of helping others.
Join a Community Band or Choir: Participating in a local band or choir can give you the chance to practice and perform regularly. You can learn a lot from your fellow musicians and make some great contacts too.

Remember, any experience is good experience when you're learning how to get a job in music with no experience. So, get out there and start volunteering. Not only will you gain practical skills, but you'll also make valuable connections and contribute to your community. Win-win, right?

Apply for Music Jobs Online

So, you're getting your feet wet in the music world and gathering experience. The next step in figuring out how to get a job in music with no experience is to start applying for jobs online. Here's how you can get started:

Online Job Portals: There are many online platforms that post job opportunities in the music industry. Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Music Jobs are great places to start. You can filter the jobs by your interests, location, and level of experience. You'd be surprised how many jobs are open to beginners!
Social Media: Social media is not just for posting selfies and food photos. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram often have job postings in various music groups or pages. Plus, keeping an active presence on these platforms can help you network and get noticed by industry professionals.
Emailing Directly: Don’t be afraid to reach out directly to music companies or individuals you’d like to work with. Send them a polite email introducing yourself and expressing your interest in working with them. Include your music portfolio (we'll discuss this next) to show off your skills.

Applying for jobs online can sometimes feel like you're throwing your resume into a black hole. But don't get discouraged. It's all part of the process of learning how to get a job in music with no experience. Keep at it, and eventually, you'll land that first music job.

Attend Music Auditions

Another practical way to get a job in music with no experience is to attend music auditions. Yes, you heard it right! Auditions are not just for American Idol or The Voice; they're also a common part of getting a job in the music industry. Let's break this down:

Local Music Events: In your local community, there may be various music events, concerts, or festivals that hold auditions for new talent. Check out local event listings or community boards to find these opportunities.
Music School Auditions: If you're enrolled in a music school, they often hold auditions for performances or even for positions within the school. This is a great way to gain practical experience. Plus, performing in front of a live audience can be a priceless experience!
Open Mic Nights: Open mic nights are a fantastic way to get yourself noticed. These events are typically relaxed and welcoming to beginners. It's a great opportunity to show off your talent and potentially catch the eye of someone influential in the music industry.

Remember, it's natural to feel nervous before an audition. But don't let that stop you. The more auditions you attend, the more comfortable you'll become. And who knows? Your next audition could lead to your first job in music.

Improve Your Music Skills

While it's true that raw talent can open doors, honing your musical skills can help you stroll right through them. How to get a job in music with no experience? Improving your music skills is a key part of the answer. Here are some ways to do this:

Take Music Lessons: Whether it's guitar, piano, or singing, taking lessons is a fantastic way to improve. You can find a local music teacher, or, in today's digital age, there are plenty of online platforms where you can learn from professionals.
Practice Regularly: The old saying "practice makes perfect" is definitely true in music. Regular practice helps improve your timing, pitch, and overall performance. Set aside a specific time each day for practice and stick to it.
Join a Music Group: Whether it's a choir, a band, or an orchestra, being part of a music group can help improve your skills. You'll learn how to harmonize, collaborate, and perform with others, which are all valuable skills in the music industry.

Keep in mind that progress might be slow, but every bit of improvement counts. With time and dedication, you'll find yourself becoming a better musician. And that's something that can definitely help you land that first job in music.

Keep Up to Date on Industry Trends

Like any other industry, music is always evolving. Staying up-to-date with these changes is a great way to show potential employers that you're serious about your career. But how do you keep track of what's trending in the music industry, especially when you're still figuring out how to get a job in music with no experience? Here are some tips:

Follow Music Blogs and Magazines: These are great resources to learn about the latest songs, artists, and changes in the music industry. Some popular ones include Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, and Billboard.
Listen to New Music: This might seem obvious, but it's an easy one to overlook. Don't just stick to your favorite genre—explore different styles and artists. You never know, you might find your next big inspiration!
Attend Music Festivals and Concerts: These events are where major industry shifts often happen. Plus, they're a great place to network and get a feel for what's popular.

Remember, knowledge is power. The more you know about the music industry, the more prepared you'll be to jumpstart your career in it. So, stay curious, stay informed, and most importantly, keep rocking!

Learn About Music Marketing

Marketing? Yes, you read it right! If you're wondering how to get a job in music with no experience, then learning about music marketing is a step you can't afford to skip. In this digital age, music marketing involves more than just getting your music heard. It's about branding, promoting, and connecting with your audience. But where do you start? Here's a beginner's guide:

Understand Your Brand: This is all about identifying your unique sound and style. What kind of music do you play? Who's your target audience? Answering these questions will help you create a brand that resonates with your audience.
Master Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are crucial for promotion. Share your music, post behind-the-scenes content, and engage with your followers. It's all about creating a community of fans around your music.
Get Familiar with Music Streaming Platforms: Platforms like Spotify and Apple Music are where most people discover new music. Learn how to use these platforms effectively to reach a wider audience.

Remember, marketing is a skill that can set you apart in the music industry. It shows potential employers that you're not only talented, but also know how to reach your audience. So, get out there, start promoting, and take one step closer to landing your dream music job!

Consider Music Internships

So, you're trying to figure out how to get a job in music with no experience? Let's talk internships. Internships are a fantastic entry point into the music industry, providing invaluable experience and connections. Let's look into why:

Get a Taste of the Music Industry: Internships offer you the chance to see how the music industry operates from the inside. This can help you decide which parts of the industry you're most interested in and where you might fit best.
Make Valuable Connections: In the music industry, who you know can be just as important as what you know. As an intern, you'll meet industry professionals who could become valuable contacts in the future.
Gain Practical Experience: An internship gives you the chance to apply what you've learned in a real-world setting. It's a practical way to build your skills and improve your resume.

Internships can be competitive, but don't be discouraged. Remember, everyone started somewhere, and with determination, you too can land an internship and start your journey in the music industry. So, dust off that resume and start applying!

Stay Motivated and Resilient

Now, let's talk about something that's just as important as technical skills and networking when figuring out how to get a job in music with no experience: your mindset. Staying motivated and resilient in the face of setbacks is key in the music industry. Here are some points to consider:

Believe in Yourself: Confidence is key. Remember, every successful musician was once in your shoes, wondering how to break into the industry. They made it, and so can you!
Don't Fear Rejection: Rejection is a part of the game. Don't take it personally. Use it as a learning tool to improve and grow.
Stay Patient: Success in music doesn't happen overnight. It takes time. Keep at it, and don't lose sight of your passion.

Remember, your journey into the music industry is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time, effort, and a whole lot of patience. But with a positive mindset and unwavering persistence, you're sure to make your mark in the music world.

If you're just starting out in the music industry and looking for tips on landing your first music job, we highly recommend checking out Aria Jay's workshop, 'Industry Insights: Starting Your Music Career.' This workshop provides valuable insights and advice on how to break into the music industry and kickstart your career. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from an expert in the field!