What are my choices of careers as a classical musician?

Hi Carys! I think it is wonderful that you have a love for classical music. I'm proud of you! Start where you are. Practice every day. Learn as much repertoire as you can. Enjoy it! Start teaching some younger kids. This will prepare you for the road ahead. You will need to get your doctorate degree if you want to play in a major orchestra. Most players in major orchestras also teach their instrument at a university. Try to study with a cellist that is already in a major orchestra. But until you reach that place/level, there are other local orchestras out there where you can get started and get experience there first. Go to as many live classical concerts as you can. Listen online to as many live performances as you can. Read up on the lives of your favorite composers. Immerse yourself in this! Keep at it. And if life takes you in other directions, that's alright, too. Be open-minded. If it is meant to be, it will be! All the best to you!

Hello Carys! Continue working at it! True, classical music is very competitive and it is very difficult to get a position in an orchestra but start with small steps. Get into a youth orchestra or community orchestra if there is any in your area so you will start learning how to play in an ensemble. Create your own string quartet! You could ask friends who play violin and viola and begin playing easier repertory first. Find local teachers who have experience playing in orchestra and an understanding of the profession. And above all, never, ever forget to have fun. Every day, every time you open your instrument case enjoy playing music, whether alone or with friends enjoy the process!