Abstract
This study explores how musicians define and find their value within both the institutional high-level practice and freelance gig settings focusing on the tension between classical training and the realities of the gig economy. By using historical writings, archived letters, books, and modern-day reflections this study connects the lives of past masters like Mozart, Liszt, and Berlioz to today’s working musicians who face similar issues of instability, recognition, and purpose. Using a thematic analysis, the research examines secondary data drawn from historical letters, memoirs, books, and online writings. Sources include historical letters from Mozart, Liszt, and Berlioz, anecdotal accounts from Kabayao (1972), historical writings from Navarro (2012), and contemporary online writings by Ryan Monakil (2025). Thematic coding identified recurring patterns across time, including income and financial instability, contractual and institutional constraints, networking and patronage, entrepreneurship and self-organization, social obligations and purpose in work. Findings show that while the music profession has evolved, many of the same patterns of instability, passion, service, and sense of calling remains. Institutions however still cling to rigid hierarchies that undervalue the work of freelance gig-based musicians.
The study suggests that music schools and cultural organizations should consider broadening topics in music programs to include real-world skills necessary for survival in the contemporary music landscape. By integrating business, networking, and social awareness into the music programs, music institutions can better prepare musicians for sustainable, more stable careers that reflect the diverse realities of musical labor today. This can help honor the music profession whether performing in concert halls, events places, hotel lounges, and even in absurd spaces the shared tradition of artistry and purpose remain.
Keywords: Gig economy, musicianship, thematic analysis, institutional hierarchy, music education, financial instability, artistic purpose