Are you dreaming of a career in music?
Embarking on a musical journey is an exhilarating adventure filled with countless highs and lows. As a seasoned musician with 15 years of experience, I’ve learned valuable lessons that have shaped my music career and my life generally.
Here’s a look at 5 hard lessons I’ve learned through years of performing, collaborating, and pushing myself in the music world.
You Never Stop Learning
One of the biggest misconceptions about musicianship is that once you reach a certain level, you “arrive” and can stop practicing and improving. The truth? There is no ceiling to learning, only to attitude you approach it with.
As a musician, you can always find something to improve or refine, whether it’s a new technique, a deeper understanding of your instrument, or an expansion of your musical theory.
In fact, the further you go, the more you realise how much you don’t know. This keeps you humble and curious. Musicians who thrive are those who remain open to learning, even if they’ve been playing for decades. The process itself becomes rewarding, and every bit of growth keeps your passion alive.
For me, embracing this constant state of learning has not only improved my skill but also my appreciation for music as an art form that’s ever-evolving.
The People Around You Are More Important Than Anything
Early on, it’s easy to focus solely on technical skills or finding your “big break,” but as time goes on, you realise that the people you share your journey with matter more than anything else.
Success, in the end, is only as sweet as the people you share it with. Working with musicians, producers, and friends who genuinely support and understand you makes all the difference.
It’s the camaraderie, the shared struggles, and the sense of belonging that become priceless. The people around you impact your mindset, confidence, and joy, both on and off the stage. Some of my most valuable experiences have come from bonding with bandmates and collaborators who have then become close friends. Surrounding yourself with people who lift you up, make you feel appreciated, and support you unconditionally makes the music journey truly worthwhile.
Me as a young drummer! Your Music Taste Can (and likely will) Change Over Time
As musicians, we’re constantly influenced by what we hear and what moves us. Over time, this exposure can dramatically shift our tastes. A genre you once swore off can suddenly feel magnetic, or a style you once adored might no longer resonate. This change isn’t a loss of identity—it’s a sign of growth and openness.
These shifts can inspire you to explore musical avenues you never thought possible, which is refreshing and liberating. Your evolving tastes can push you to experiment with different sounds, techniques, and instruments. Embracing these changes, instead of resisting them, can lead to some of your most fulfilling and surprising work. For me, learning to stay curious and embrace this evolution has opened up doors to new creative opportunities that I’d never imagined.
Living Off Band Revenue Is tricky! (Even with High Touring Levels and Millions of StreamS)
For many aspiring musicians, the idea of making a living purely from playing music in a band is the dream. But even when you reach substantial success, including high-profile tours or millions of streams, the income can be surprisingly limited. Streaming services pay fractions of a cent per play, and touring comes with high costs—from travel expenses and equipment to food and accommodation. The reality is, even well-known musicians often have to diversify their income streams, inside the music industry .
After years of firsthand experience, I’ve learned to balance my expectations and find ways to make a sustainable income alongside band revenue. Teaching, session work, merchandise sales, and licensing music are all viable ways to supplement your earnings. If you’re set on a career in music, being resourceful and open to multiple revenue sources can be the key to long-term sustainability.
Embrace Yourself for the musician You Are, rather than the Idol Musician You are Trying to Be
When starting out, it’s natural to have idols and to want to emulate their style, image, or career path. However, the more you grow as a musician, the more you realise the importance of being authentic to yourself and finding your own style.
Embrace who you truly are—your quirks, your unique style, and even your personal limitations—it becomes empowering. This authenticity not only feels more satisfying but also resonates with listeners who appreciate genuine expression. Over time, I’ve learned that my true value as a musician lies in being unapologetically myself. It’s an ongoing journey, but one that feels more rewarding with every step
So What's Next?
These lessons aren’t things you learn overnight—they’re revelations that come from years of dedication, persistence, and reflection. As musicians, we’re constantly evolving, both in skill and in mindset. Embracing these hard-earned truths has helped me become not just a better musician, but also a more grounded and fulfilled individual.
If you’re on your own music journey, know that the challenges you face are shaping you in ways that extend far beyond your instrument. Each experience, each lesson, and each moment of growth makes you a truer version of yourself. Keep learning, surround yourself with good people, and always stay open to where the music takes you.
At Bateras Beat, we’re passionate about helping aspiring musicians achieve their dreams. Our expert drum teachers and mentors offer high-quality drum lessons in Melbourne to students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, we can help you develop your skills and reach your full potential.
Ready to take the leap and start learning a musical instrument? Bateras Beat Australia are now now offering Drum lessons, Singing lessons, Guitar lessons and Piano lessons to all ages and skill levels - contact us today!
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