Business 101 for Classical Musicians (1–3)
Musicians Need More Than Talent — They Need a Management Skillset.
The Changing Landscape of Classical Music Market and Survival Strategies for Musicians
For centuries, classical musicians have focused on refining their technique and deepening their musical interpretation. But in 2025, many music school graduates struggle to find sustainable careers. Even those with undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees from prestigious conservatories often struggle with unstable employment, lack negotiation skills to draft a fair contract, or lack the ability to manage finances as freelancers. Even top prize-winning musicians face the same issues.
In the past, musical talent and effort alone could guarantee success, but not anymore.
Today’s classical industry demands PR skills of individuals and entrepreneurial spirit, and the musicians who can’t adapt often fall behind. I recognized that other creative industries, such as design, film, and fashion, already integrate business and marketing education. Yet classical music lags behind, producing graduates ill-prepared for the realities of today’s market.
As orchestra jobs and teaching positions in higher education shrink, more musicians turn to freelance careers. A variety of income models for musicians are emerging, which include not only the traditional performance activities, but also private or group lessons, performance within chamber ensembles, crossover performances, or creating digital content using classical music.
No longer is it enough to stay in the practice room — musicians must now network and promote their own brand. We’re in an era where musicians must create their own opportunities rather than wait for them. Musicians savvy with trends and social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok can now connect with global audiences directly, which was not imaginable before. However, those who miss this wave often hesitate in an already saturated market. That’s why strategic branding and identifying target audiences are now essential.
Foundational business education for musicians is critical, helping them design their own careers and create mission- and value-aligned brands. Through this, musicians can create their own opportunities rather than waiting for opportunities to come. I believe that the school of music in higher education in South Korea must begin offering arts management curricula to expand students’ perspectives and strengthen their competencies.
<Business 101 for Classical Musicians — 1, the end>
Written by Leo Kim
