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So you're thinking of studying music, or are actually studying. Or maybe you don't handle academics too well when it comes to music. So many brilliant and inspired talents and musicians slip through the net and take up other employment completely unrelated to Music because they have no idea of the possibilities in the music Industry.
So you don't study music to A Level. That doesn't mean you shouldn't still follow your love and pursue a career. Do well in your subjects, keep playing, study the guitar - don't just play it, but study it, put pen to paper and plot out riffs and scales. Get out there, make contacts, hang around with other musicians, put yourself forward, never let an opportunity go by for playing. Don't think you're no good and that the other person's better than you ... nobody plays like you, for one thing, and playing should be for enjoyment for another thing.
Getting involved will get you noticed. Take up short courses to learn how to record, how to gig and play with others. Learn a little about sound. Get stuck in. So you don't know 'how to do it' ... that's why you should find out ... people love to show what they know, so learn everything you can from others - you're doing them a favour, you're not showing your lack of knowledge.
What I'm saying is, you can have a life of music and you can get employment in the music industry even if you've not taken A-level courses. To work in the industry, be prepared to try anything, have plenty of 'rods in the fire', be flexible, and keep in mind that even as a musician you'll be involved in areas that are not to do with playing directly.
It's a fun and challenging industry - it needs a lot of work and dedication - but it is possible to 'follow your dream'. Just remember - each step you take is a step further than before.
