Getting a recorddeal?

[sevencircles]

I friend of mine quit right before getting his masterīs degree in Engineering Chemistry to become a professional classical pianist.

He was surprised that he passed the test for the Concert Pianist program in Sweden and he will graduate very soon (a few years later).

The question is did he make a mistake?

It must be very hard to find a deal as a classical pianist  that hasnīt won any International competitions these days.

I know how hard it is to find a good deal playing rock and pop and it must be 10 harder as a classical musician.

[prometheus]

I don't think getting a record deal has something to do with your skill as a pianist. Sure, you need the skill. But I guess it is a lot more about luck and connections.

[sevencircles]

I don't think getting a record deal has something to do with your skill as a pianist. Sure, you need the skill. But I guess it is a lot more about luck and connections.

Exactly like the world of popmusic in other words.

I hope his teacher will help him get the right contacts.

How many new previously unsigned classical pianists get recorddeals, a year, these days?

It canīt be many.

[arensky]

Exactly how close was he to the Chemistry degree? Seems like a waste to not finish a project like that, particularly one that could provide a reliable income later on, the income of a concert pianist is not always reliable.

[sevencircles]

Exactly how close was he to the Chemistry degree? Seems like a waste to not finish a project like that, particularly one that could provide a reliable income later on, the income of a concert pianist is not always reliable.

Did 170 points out of 180.

In other words he didnīt do the final exam.

He loves to play the piano (plays 6-8 hours a day) however and has no plans to go back to the chemistry.

[e60m5]

I hope he doesn't end up regretting that decision - especially given that he was so close towards finishing his Masters.

[sevencircles]

Many bands even in Rock and pop have a problem finding a recorddeal where they earn money.

It must be extremely hard for a new classical pianist (here in Sweden at least) to make a living,

The crowds during live performances are less then 100  in general here  if itīs not a huge star like Lang Lang that plays.

[gruffalo]

if he was doing a masters, surely he had a base degree in Chemistry anyway. in that case, he still can earn a good living. Masters degree just gives you that extra edge to become someone important within the science world. he can still land himself a great job with the Batchelor degree.

Gruff