Making a career out of music?

[Robert]

Hi, there.
I am an aspiring pianist, who has taken years and years of piano lessons. I want to become a full-time professional piano player, much to the dismay of my parents who otherwise want me to take up a corporate career. I want help and wish to learn the nuances of being a pro musician so that I can mange my career in music professionally and earn a decent living out of it.

[nicklz]

Until you get a well paying position you might think about local gigs or even teaching piano. I have a friend that's played and taken voice since we were in kindergarten. She decided not to finish her degree in music even though she was very close to getting it. She's done various odd jobs while she went to school and told me recently that over the years she's had over 2000 students. She's very good. She also has classes for the music students at the local high school that are at her home, but co-ordinated with the school's program. Her students are varied in age from about 7 years old through adult. She gives primarily voice, piano, and guitar. Lots of theory.
She's sung with the Chicago Philharmonic and with Paul Pitts whom she also played piano for.

You have many options with your talent. Maybe your folks would be happier and you'll be better equipped for earning a living until something does break for you. You never know what contacts you might make having other jobs, too. Just keep playing and I sincerely hope you get to live your dream.