Part-time schedules and intermittent unemployment are common, and many musicians supplement their income with earnings from other sources. They may perform alone or as part of a group, before live audiences or in recording studios, television, radio, or movie productions. Although most of these entertainers play for live audiences, some prepare music exclusively for studios or computers. Regardless of the setting, musicians, singers, and related workers spend considerable time practicing, alone and with their band, orchestra, or other musical group.
Musicians often specialize in a particular kind of music or performance.
Instrumental musicians, for example, play a musical instrument in an orchestra, band, rock group, or jazz group. Some play a variety of string, brass, woodwind, or percussion instruments or electronic synthesizers. Those who learn several related instruments, such as the flute and clarinet, have better employment opportunities. Singers interpret music using their knowledge of voice production, melody, and harmony. They sing character parts or perform in their own individual style.