Before I decided to start freelancing full time, I genuinely thought there were only two career paths after studying piano. You either became a piano teacher or a classical concert pianist. Those were the options and neither sounded appealing.
It was not until I started working in the industry full time that I realised how limited that view was. As I continued to network across different parts of the music industry and said yes to a wide range of opportunities, I discovered just how many ways there are to make a living as a pianist. Many of those opportunities only appeared because I actively went looking for them or created them myself.
Building multiple income streams did not happen overnight. It came from curiosity, connection, and being willing to step outside the traditional boxes I thought I had to fit into. That did not mean “selling out” or doing the things I hated. It meant using the skills I already had in more than one way, so my career would start to feel stable, flexible, and creatively fulfilling.
Here are some realistic ways pianists can build multiple income streams without burning out or losing their love for music.
Live Performance Still Matters
Live performance is often the foundation. This can include solo concerts, background music gigs, theatre work, orchestral contracts, weddings (and even funerals), or corporate and private events.
The key is variety. Relying on only one type of performance can be risky, especially when seasons change or budgets tighten. Having a mix of concert work and private events creates more consistent income and keeps your performance life interesting.
Live gigs also feed everything else you do. They build credibility, content, and connection with audiences.
Create Themed Concerts Instead of One-Off Gigs
Instead of thinking in individual performances, think in programs. A themed concert can be performed multiple times in different venues and cities.
Pop culture programs, film music, video game music, anime, or cinematic piano concerts all work particularly well for this. Classical music of course still has its place in the music scene, but I’d encourage you to think outside the norm and focus on creating a holistic experience for your audience.
Once the program exists, you are no longer starting from scratch every time. One concert idea can turn into touring work, album recordings, and online content.
Recording and Streaming Income
Recorded music will probably not replace live income on its own, but it can become a valuable long term stream.
Albums, EPs, and digital singles allow people to support your work even when they cannot attend a concert. These recordings also act as calling cards for presenters, festivals, and collaborators. Whenever I connect with a potential client, I direct them to my catalogue of online music, where they can hear exactly what I sound like.
Streaming income grows slowly, but it builds over time. The real value often lies in discoverability and audience growth rather than quick returns.
YouTube and Content Creation
For many pianists, YouTube and short form video are now essential parts of the ecosystem.
This does not mean posting everything or being online all the time. It means using content strategically. A single performance can be turned into long form video, short clips, and social posts.
Over time, content creation can lead to ad revenue, sponsorships, and increased bookings. More importantly, it allows audiences to find you and connect long before they ever buy a ticket.
Teaching Without Trading All Your Time
Teaching is one of the most common income streams for pianists, but it does not have to mean back to back lessons every day.
Some pianists choose to teach selectively. Others create workshops, online resources, or short courses. Group teaching and online education can scale your time while still sharing your knowledge.
Teaching also reinforces your own musicianship and keeps your fundamentals strong. It also inspires the new generation to pursue music when they can observe your career outside of teaching.
Arranging, Transcribing, and Sheet Music
If you arrange or transcribe music, this can become a powerful income stream. Piano arrangements for pop culture, film, anime, or video games are always in demand.
Sheet music can be sold digitally and continues to generate income long after the work is done. It also positions you as an authority in your niche. This is particularly effective if it aligns with your concert programs and recordings.
You can also pick up some extra work as an orchestrator for a variety of projects, from creating an orchestral arrangement of a pop song for a school band, to arranging a video game track for a live concert, or a choral arrangement for your local amateur choir.
Recording at Home and Creating Backing Tracks
One of the most flexible income streams for pianists is recording from home. This can include creating backing tracks for singers, accompanist tracks for auditions and exams, demo recordings, or custom tracks for performers who need reliable piano parts.
Many singers, students, and actors need high quality piano recordings but do not always have access to a live accompanist. Providing clean, well played tracks solves a real problem and is always in demand.
This kind of work is especially practical because it can be done on your own schedule. A basic home recording setup is often enough to get started, and over time this can grow into a steady and reliable source of income.
Recording at home also develops skills that transfer into other areas, such as content creation, online teaching, and professional demos. An added bonus is being constantly exposed to new repertoire which keeps up the sight reading skills.
Crowdfunding and Direct Support
Platforms like Patreon or direct supporter models allow your audience to support you on an ongoing basis.
People who love your work often want to contribute, especially when they feel part of the journey. Offering behind the scenes content, early access, or exclusive recordings can make this feel meaningful rather than transactional.
This kind of income grows slowly, but it can become incredibly stable over time.
Think Like a Creative Business Owner
Building multiple income streams does not mean doing everything at once. It means choosing a few areas that suit your personality, skills, and lifestyle.
The most sustainable careers are usually built step by step. One stream supports the next. Live performance fuels content. Content grows an audience. The audience supports recordings, concerts, and future projects.
You do not need to fit into one box to be a successful pianist. In fact, the more flexible and intentional you are, the more resilient your career becomes.
NATALYA PLAYS PIANO 
Leave a comment