They audition and select singers and direct them at rehearsals and performances to achieve harmony, rhythm, tempo, shading, and other desired musical effects. All musicians spend a considerable amount of time practicing. Those who play current music listen to recordings and copy the sound, since sheet music may not be available. Musicians may have to travel frequently to perform. Working Conditions Musicians often perform at night and on weekends and spend considerable time in practice and rehearsal.
Performances frequently require travel.
Because many musicians find only part-time work or experience unemployment between engagements, they often supplement their income with other types of jobs. In fact, many decide they can not support themselves as musicians and take permanent, full-time jobs in other occupations, while working only part time as musicians. Employment An average of about 236,000 musicians held jobs in 1992. Many were between engagements, so that the total number of people employed as musicians during the course of the year might have been greater. Many work in cities in which entertainment and recording activities are concentrated, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Nashville.