Maybe your dream is to play Carnegie Hall or be the next Slash or work in a film studio orchestra. But the road to a financially secure career as a musician can be a long one. Rather than settling for mind-numbing filler jobs at the local Target or House of Pancakes to pay the bills, think creatively. Here are seven suggestions on how to make money as a musician. Not only do you get paid to practice and sharpen your skills, you put yourself in the position to meet people who might be the key to your big break. All you need is your talent and a business card.

Play at private parties: Get to know the managers of local restaurants and encourage them to offer your services for birthdays, anniversaries, holiday parties or any other private function they host. If you have a band, bars frequently hire for weekend gigs or special events.

Rent a tux and play at weddings. Solo acts like pianists, guitarists, saxophonists and even harpists can add immeasurable class to any pre or post reception. Advertise on the community board at local churches, pass out flyers at bridal shops and florists and introduce yourself to the Sales Managers at nearby hotels that host weddings and give them a bid they can’t refuse.

Be a street musician. If you live in a city, find a spot where there’s a lot of foot traffic, especially on weekends. Look at it as a performance. Present yourself as a professional and entertain the spectators. Tipping musicians is a time honored tradition so have fun with it and don’t act as if you are a panhandler.

Be a recital accompanist. If you play guitar or piano check out the local community college and see if they ever need an accompanist for singing recitals.

Work as a session musician. There are some musicians who make a career of it. Session musicians are hired for recording sessions by singers or other musicians.

Teach. Some people see teaching as an admission of defeat. But depending on your skill level, music tutors can make upwards of $50 an hour. Teaching is a way to make good money without punching a time clock. It’s a case of those who can, do…and teach.

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