Have you ever considered pursuing a music career but worried that it might be too late to start? Well, fear not. We’re here to bust the myth that 17 is too old to kickstart your musical journey.
In fact, starting your music career at 17 can be the perfect time to discover your passion and potential in the industry.
So, let’s dive into how you can embark on this exciting path and make your mark in the music world at just 17 years old.
Is 17 Too Late To Start Music?
While some may argue that there is no “perfect” age, others may believe that starting at 17 can be particularly advantageous. Here are several reasons why 17 can be a great age to begin your journey in the music industry.
1. Youthful energy and enthusiasm: At 17, you are in the prime of your youth and have an abundance of energy and enthusiasm. This can be a great asset when it comes to starting a new venture or pursuing your passions.
2. More time for experimentation: Starting at 17 means you have more time to experiment with different genres, styles, and techniques before committing to a specific sound or direction. This can lead to a more well-rounded and versatile musician.
3. Opportunity for growth: Being young allows for more room for growth and development as an artist. You have the time and space to learn from mistakes, try new things, and continuously improve your skills.
4. Advancements in technology: With advancements in technology, starting at 17 means you have access to various tools and resources that were not available in previous years. This can help facilitate your creative process and elevate your music production.
5. Networking opportunities: As you enter into adulthood, you will start building connections with other professionals in the industry who can help guide you on your musical journey. Starting at 17 gives you an earlier start on networking and building valuable relationships that can benefit your career.
6. More exposure: The younger generation is often drawn towards newer artists breaking into the music scene, making it easier for them to gain exposure through social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
7. Ability to balance education with music: Starting at 17 allows for flexibility in balancing education with pursuing a career in music. This way, one can continue studying while also honing their craft and building a fan base.
8. Support from parents: At 17, many individuals still have the support of their parents. This can provide a sense of security and stability as you embark on your music career, allowing you to focus on your passion without worrying about financial burdens.
9. More time to develop stage presence: Starting at 17 gives you more time to develop stage presence and performance skills. This is especially important for live performances, as having a captivating presence can make all the difference in gaining fans and standing out in the industry.
10. Possibility for mentorship: As a young musician starting out, you may have the opportunity to find a mentor who can guide you in navigating the music industry. Having someone with experience and knowledge in your corner can greatly benefit your growth as an artist.
11. No pressure to “make it” immediately: Starting at 17 means there is no rush or pressure to immediately “make it” in the industry. You have time to build your skills, brand, and fan base without feeling like there is a deadline looming over your head.
12. More time for touring: Without major commitments such as a full-time job or family responsibilities, starting at 17 means you have more time available for touring and playing shows – a crucial aspect of building a successful music career.
13. Flexible schedule: As a young adult with minimal obligations, starting at 17 means you have more flexibility in managing your schedule according to your music pursuits.
14. Greater resilience: Starting at 17 allows for more opportunities to face challenges and setbacks along the way, which can strengthen resilience and determination – important qualities needed for success in the competitive music industry.
15. Learning from older artists’ experiences: Being surrounded by older artists who have been in the industry longer than you can provide valuable insights and lessons that could benefit your own career path.
16. Awareness of current trends: Studying popular music trends at the age of 17 can help you gain a better understanding of what is resonating with audiences and how to apply those concepts to your own music.
17. The potential for longevity: Starting at 17 means you have the potential for longevity in your music career. You have more time to grow, evolve, and adapt as an artist, allowing you to have a strong presence in the industry for years.
Can I learn music at 17?
Learning music at any age can be a rewarding experience. While starting music lessons at a younger age may have some advantages, there are still plenty of reasons why you can successfully learn music at the age of 17.
1. Music has no age limit
Music is a universal language that knows no boundaries or limitations. It is open to people of all ages and backgrounds, and there is no predetermined cut-off point for when one can start learning it.
As long as you have the passion and determination to learn, age should not stop you from pursuing your musical journey.
2. You have a mature perspective
At 17, you are more likely to approach music lessons with maturity and focus than younger students with shorter attention spans. Your life experiences and skills developed over time can also contribute positively to your musical development.
3. More advanced learning opportunities
As an older learner, you may be able to take advantage of more advanced learning opportunities such as masterclasses, workshops, or even joining ensembles or orchestras composed of experienced musicians. These experiences can greatly enhance your musical education.
4. Self-motivation and discipline
At this stage in life, you may possess a higher level of self-motivation and discipline compared to younger students. These qualities are crucial for success in learning any instrument or mastering any musical skill.
5. Understanding of different genres
Having been exposed to different types of music throughout your teenage years, you may already understand and appreciate various genres. This knowledge can help you choose which style of music or instrument aligns with your interests and strengths.
6. Access to technology
Advancements in technology have made it easier than ever for people to access high-quality music education materials online from the comfort of their own homes. You can use these resources to supplement your lessons and practice effectively at home.
7. Time management skills
Being a student at 17 means you have likely developed effective time management skills. Proper planning and organization allow you to balance your music lessons with other responsibilities such as schoolwork or part-time jobs.
Is 17 too late to start an instrument?
No specific age is considered “too late” to start learning an instrument. Many musicians have started at different stages in their lives and have gone on to achieve great success.
However, there are a few factors to consider when starting an instrument at the age of 17.
1. You Have More Life Experience
At 17, you have had more life experiences compared to a young child who may be just starting out. This can give you a better understanding and appreciation for music, which can enhance your learning experience.
2. Your Brain is Fully Developed
Research has shown that the brain’s plasticity decreases with age, making it harder to learn new skills as we get older. However, at 17, your brain is still developing and has the ability to adapt and learn new things quickly.
3. You Can Practice Independently
Unlike younger children who may need constant supervision and guidance in their practice sessions, as a 17-year-old you can take more responsibility for practicing on your own and setting goals for yourself.
4. Dedication and Motivation
Starting an instrument at any age requires dedication and motivation. As a 17-year-old, you are more likely to understand the value of hard work and commitment towards achieving your goals.
5. Support from Peers
Joining a music class or band at school can provide opportunities for social interaction with peers who share similar interests. This support system can help motivate and encourage you in your musical journey.
6. Access to Quality Instruments
As an older student, you may have more financial stability to invest in quality instruments or lessons, which can greatly impact your progress in learning the instrument.
7. Personal Fulfillment
Learning an instrument at any age brings personal fulfillment as it allows for self-expression and creativity. At 17 years old, this personal fulfillment can also contribute positively toward overall emotional well-being during pivotal teenage years.
Is 17 too late to start singing?
There is no definitive age at which one must start singing. While it is true that many successful singers often begin training at a young age, there are several reasons why 17 years old can still be a suitable time to start pursuing a career in singing.
1. Vocal Development: The vocal cords continue to develop and mature well into the mid-20s, which means that starting to sing at 17 allows for ample time for vocal growth and improvement.
2. Musical Experience: Many individuals who start singing at 17 may have already had musical experience through playing instruments or participating in choir or theater productions. This can provide a strong foundation for learning how to sing and understanding music theory.
3. Emotional Maturity: Singing requires not only technical skill but also emotional depth and maturity. Starting at 17 means that an individual has had more time to develop their emotional intelligence, which can greatly enhance their performance as a singer.
4. Personal Drive and Motivation: Teenagers may have more free time and flexibility to pursue their passions than adults with full-time jobs and other responsibilities. This can allow them to devote more time and energy to improving their singing skills.
5. Variety of Styles Available: At 17 years old, an individual has likely been exposed to a variety of musical genres and styles, allowing them to discover what type of music resonates with them the most. This self-awareness can lead to a stronger artistic direction in their singing career.
6. Access to Resources: With advancements in technology, numerous resources are now available for aspiring singers regardless of age, such as online voice lessons, vocal coaches, and performance opportunities through social media platforms.
7. It’s Never Too Late: Many famous singers did not achieve success until later in their careers – Adele released her first album at 19. At the same time, Janis Joplin didn’t become widely recognized until she was in her late twenties. It’s never too late to start singing and pursue your dreams.
How to start your music career at 17?
Starting a music career at the age of 17 may seem daunting, but with determination and hard work, it is possible to achieve success in the music industry.
Here are some steps to help you get started on your journey towards becoming a professional musician.
1. Develop your skills:
The first step to kickstarting your music career is to hone your craft. Take the time to improve your skills as a musician, whether it be through formal lessons or self-teaching. Practice regularly and try to learn different styles and techniques to become a well-rounded musician.
2. Create a strong online presence:
In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for any aspiring musician. Create social media accounts and websites where you can showcase your music, connect with fans and network with other musicians and industry professionals.
3. Build a repertoire:
Start by creating original songs or covers that showcase your talent and style as a musician. This will not only help you develop your own sound but also give you material to perform at gigs or share on social media.
4. Collaborate with others:
Collaborating with other musicians can be an excellent way to expand your network and gain exposure. Consider joining local bands or connecting with other musicians in your community to collaborate on projects or perform together.
5. Perform live:
One of the best ways to gain experience as a musician is by performing live in front of an audience. Look for open mic nights, talent shows or local events where you can showcase your talents.
6. Writing songs for recording artist/ film & TV placement :
As you continue to develop as an artist, consider expanding beyond just performing live and start writing songs for recording artists or pitching them for film & TV placement opportunities. This can provide additional income while building relationships within the industry.
7. Network:
Networking is vital in any industry but especially in the competitive world of music. Attend local events such as concerts, music festivals, and industry conferences to connect with other musicians and industry professionals.
8. Consider a music education:
While not necessary, pursuing a music degree can provide valuable knowledge and skills for your music career. It also allows you to make connections within the industry through internships and networking opportunities.
9. Be open to opportunities:
As you begin your music career, be open to different opportunities that come your way. They may not always be what you envisioned, but they could lead to valuable experiences and connections in the industry.
10. Work hard and never give up:
The most crucial piece of advice when starting your music career at 17 is to work hard and stay dedicated. Success does not happen overnight, so keep pushing forward, learning from each experience, and never give up on your dreams.
Conclusion
While starting at a young age may give some individuals an advantage, it is never too late to start your music career at 17 or any age.
With dedication, hard work, and the right resources, you can achieve your musical goals and make a name for yourself in the industry.
Remember to stay true to yourself, continuously learn and improve your skills, and be open to new opportunities. Don’t let anyone or anything discourage you from chasing your dreams and starting your music career at 17.
It’s never too late to make your passion a reality. So go out there and start making beautiful music!
