Have you thought about making money from your guitar in Singapore? If you have, that’s great – and if you haven’t, you might start thinking about it after reading this.
If you’re a guitar player who can play confidently – whether on an acoustic guitar, electric guitar, or even a bass guitar – and you’ve ever thought about teaching others, this article is for you. We’re going to show you how to turn your passion into a way to get paid for your guitar skills in Singapore.
These days, not everyone is earning enough from their full-time jobs. That’s why freelancing and side gigs are growing in popularity. Some even manage to replace their full-time income entirely. Adding a side gig, like teaching guitar lessons in Singapore, can give you both extra income and the satisfaction of sharing your talent.
So, for the guitarists who’ve been hiding their skills because you feel you’re not good enough, too shy, or unsure if it can ever be stable – this is your sign. We’ll walk you through how to earn from guitar Singapore opportunities, doing something you already love, and build confidence as a teacher or performer.
Get ready to learn how to get paid doing what you love with a guitar in Singapore!
Play in a Group and Perform in Small Venues: Interpret and Compose
If you can strum some strings into a nice riff (more than just a G chord and an A chord, though) and you're good at it, it's probably because you like music – maybe you already give regular guitar lessons at home or teach online using digital platforms.
Many musicians play the songs of others, like these youngsters who play in their garage with friends on weekends (does that speak to you?). And if you play another musical instrument, let it be known, maybe you can add a violin, mandolin, banjo, percussion or ukulele solo during a gig.
After a certain time, performers decide to compose their own melodies and songs, and the opportunity to let the deepest emotions express themselves through the guitar, by rippling riffs or tearful solos. So, if you know your way around electric or bass styles, why not be the lead in a band? Pick up your guitar and go for it!
If you’re just getting started, here are some songs to play as a beginner that will keep you motivated and build your confidence.
Recording Your Album at Home
Thanks to the Internet, almost anyone can make an album.
To do this, just start by building a crowdfunding campaign (Ulule or My Major Company, for example). Your album will become a communication tool that you can listen to while pub-crawling when you propose to play in the evening! With this tool, you can also get to know the producers, and - who knows? - maybe sign a label! The viral potential of good audio quality is huge; it can propel you into the spotlight in a few weeks if the web likes you.
This is the story that the 3 friends of LEJ (Lucie, Elise and Juliette) are currently experiencing, enjoying covering successful songs. On YouTube, they account for nearly 560,000 fans! The result is that they signed with the former producer of Diam's, Tefa, they have many concerts scheduled and an album underway.
Technology now makes recording easier than ever. From layering digital tracks to experimenting with effects, your home setup can sound polished. With the right accessories, even a small space can deliver professional results.
But first, you have to get rid of these misconceptions and preconceived notions about playing the guitar.
The Most Obvious: Become a Guitar Teacher
To become a guitar teacher, several solutions are available to you:
- Teach in a music school by giving guitar lessons.
- Teach at the conservatory.
- Teach the guitar on the internet by creating your website and YouTube videos or giving online guitar lessons.
- Teach the guitar by giving private guitar lessons (like on Superprof!) - at your place or theirs.
Taking the Formal Route to Guitar Teaching
If you want to pursue serious career opportunities in the guitar, it would be wise to have both a teaching certificate and a musical qualification. The latter can be gained by either doing music grades or by studying music at a degree level. It may cost a higher price, but it adds credibility and opens doors to consistent work.
A teaching certificate would show that you have the skills required to be a successful teacher. This would be required ,probably by job openings in the first two options above. Any official institution would like to see official qualifications. But it's worth the extra work - because you'll have consistent work and a more prestigious job title.
More Casually...
Rest assured, you can be a good guitar teacher without having the qualification, because the most important elements remain passion and taste for teaching!
Many students seek beginner-friendly lessons, and your knowledge can add real value to their learning journey. Sharing experience can also bring a steady SGD income while keeping your schedule flexible.
Diplomas are important, but the experience is just as much, so don't forget to highlight all the gigs in which you have participated and anything else that can build your profile as a guitarist.
Finally, keep in mind that the right feeling is crucial; if you don't like human contact and you lack patience, go to the next section below! Guitar lessons must remain a pleasure.
There's a whole world of finger-picking, harmonics, frets, licks, tabs, strumming, dreadnoughts and pickups that beginner guitarists are eager to learn about.
If you’re ready to take that step, Singapore’s top shops make it easy to start. You can view the latest stock, check the regular list of arrivals, and compare the price of electric guitars, Yamaha models, or even digital audio gear in SGD. Many online shops run a special sale where you can quickly add strings, effects, wireless systems, or other accessories to your cart. Whether you go for a sleek black, a clean white, or a natural finish, you’ll find something to match your style. And since popular models get sold quickly, keeping an eye on updates ensures you never miss out.
Beyond the technical skills, the guitar brings a wide range of personal advantages. You can explore these in our article on the benefits of playing guitar.
Look for Jobs as a Session Guitarist
A session guitarist is a guitarist who, although they may not have a big name, can be heard on all sorts of recordings and performances with other bands.
Take Guthrie Govan, for example. Whilst his preferred style of music is a little niche, he was hired by Dizzee Rascal to play gigs across the world on his tour. And whilst Govan managed particularly well, this is a common route for many serious musicians to follow.
The easiest path to doing this is by going to music school. Here, you won't only develop your musical skills, but most courses also offer industry training and advice on how to succeed.
It's the sort of job that is largely based on a network, meaning that you need to know the right people to get the good gigs. Music school helps you build that crucial contact list.
Be a Guitarist for Village Parties or Cultural Events
Although your name probably won't go down in history as one of the greatest guitarists in the world, a nice gig can be performing at community events. This can be anything from village fetes to neighbourhood parties - and, even if you don't earn a regular income from it, the exposure never hurt anyone.
Exposure brings further employment opportunities. And, for all jobs that pay better, you're not going to want to show that you have no experience. These sorts of gigs are a great way to put yourself above all the other job seekers.
If you know how to play the guitar with one hand and play the electric guitar, you can even get into a more "crazy" metal band.
Earn a Living by Performing for Birthdays and Weddings
When you want to live off your passion, don't count hours of prospecting!
If you want to offer your services as a guitarist for a birthday or a wedding, you'll need a reputation. Word of mouth is a great way to showcase your talents, enjoy every opportunity to play a small piece of guitar and keep business cards around. Additionally, keep a presence on digital platforms, and list your services online. Every small chance to play adds up, so take it.
And, honestly, these sorts of gigs are great - as usually everyone is in high spirits and they are going to like what you are doing. As soon as that happens, you're in for a winner.
Don't hesitate to offer your services to the town hall or place advertisements in the city's newspaper. Bring your favourite Gibson, Les Paul, Fender, Mahogany, Yamaha or Ibanez models along and show them what you can do! For variety, you can also add different effects with pedals, swap out strings, or use a wireless system for smooth mobility during a gig.
Beginner guitarists can explore genres like rock, blues, jazz, and pop to build versatility and keep performances fresh.
Sometimes it happens that individuals fall under the spell of a guitarist or a music group in the street and ask them to play for a birthday. See below for more info on busking!
To do this, go see the bars and restaurants nearby; they may want to organise a special evening to mark the occasion! Of course, don't forget the web. While paper ads reach a certain audience, many potential clients now rush to Google to do their initial searches, comparing prices in SGD. Here are 3 tips to apply to boost your exposure:
- Create your own website to introduce yourself and get users to view some services by working on SEO.
- Update your YouTube channel to present your setlist (almost like a digital cart of what you can play) and to be easily shared across social networks.
- Register on music directories. Try The Unsigned Guide, Last Minute Musicians, or the Music Producers Guild. On these sites, you'll find job listings and job postings, and you'll be able to search jobs that you wouldn't be able to find elsewhere. A nice database through which to do a job search is key for any freelancer, as you want access to a diverse range of current job openings.
You could even share short stories or videos about the history of the guitar to engage your audience while showcasing your skills.
Playing in the Metro: A Guitarist's Guide to Busking
Certainly, the subway isn't a place of dreams. Yet, when you think of the thousands of people who could pass before you, playing your finest compositions, think about it twice!
You can take your guitar bag and a hat, and go sit around on any platform or in your favourite corridor with your acoustic or electric guitar. However, without the proper application, you risk getting moved along.
Different places have different ways of applying - and different laws regarding what you can and can't do: at what times, how loud the audio can be, and in what specific locations. Make sure to view the guidelines in your area before taking your guitar out.
Don't hesitate to propose albums for sale, a musical favourite (and more!) is possible. You can also come with a small amplifier for your electric guitar if you have the right authorisation.
People do find all sorts of different gigs when they have started playing by busking. When someone important notices, you may start seeing the job offers rolling in.
Becoming a Professional Musician on YouTube. It Doesn't Only Happen to Others!
The job of a YouTuber isn't reserved for comedians. You’ll also find digital channels on beauty, fashion, coaching, and of course, guitars. Many creators, including musicians, now earn a regular income through advertising, sponsorships, and fan support.
Yeah, YouTube has not missed out on the juicy potential of successful videos. While it doesn’t come with a cushy benefits package, it can still be a special way to earn money doing what you love.
Here is the video of Matt Rach, the most followed YouTube guitarist:
By hosting ads a few seconds before viewers view your content, YouTube shares part of the price advertisers pay. That means you can teach lessons, demonstrate effects, review accessories, or perform on your electric guitar – all from the comfort of your home. A good camera, clear audio, and some creativity are all you need.
You can potentially make $10 per thousand views. This doesn't sound like much, admittedly. But when you have plenty of videos up, this can put you in a tidy salary range.
Isn't life beautiful? If you meet success online, you need to declare this to the tax office, like anyone engaged in remote work would do! This is an online job after all!
Playing Guitar on a Television Show
Like the session musicians above, you can find yourself as a regular musician on a TV show. This is a good employment opportunity, as it usually pays pretty well and it helps you to get further new gigs.
There are two options for this. You can either work for a show like Jools Holland or chat shows that have a permanent band of session musicians. You'll play alongside a group of excellent musicians once a week when recording for the show.
Otherwise, you can sell your compositions to companies that may use them for adverts or as the soundtrack for TV series. Either way, this can be an excellent exposure.
Who would have thought that a reality show could get you a good career in music? Just think of how some of the famous guitarists of all time first gained recognition through TV performances before becoming legends.
The Professions That a Guitarist Can Exercise are Wide and Varied
There are finally more jobs available than you think when you know how to play the guitar!
Everything is about personality and personal motivation. Some will prefer the calm of a classroom to teach how to play the guitar, while others will access the larger auditoriums or play flamenco all night long.
Well, let's be honest, there is also a little bit of string pulled and contact that comes into play, but with talent, you can do everything. Want to become a professional guitarist? Go ahead!
Our final advice would be that, if you are serious about being a musician for a living, always keep up your search for jobs. Use job boards and job sites, go to job fairs, send off endless job applications - and nail those communication skills so that you can build a big network of people who might offer you the right gig.
These days, looking for employment can be a full-time job! But get your cover letter and resume nice and tidy, keep up that job application, and you'll be working nice jobs at places you've dreamed about in no time!
Now discover how science gets behind guitar playing to affirm why guitar playing is good!
Set Up a Music Academy or Studio
Another great way to turn your guitar skills into income is by setting up your own music academy or private studio. This not only allows you to scale your passion and reach more students but also helps you build a long-term, sustainable business. Beyond teaching, you can expand your revenue by renting out instruments and studio space to people who want to jam, practice, or simply have fun making music with friends.
Think about karaoke – many people love going there because they get to sing their hearts out to their favourite songs like their idols. At home, they may not have the setup or audio equipment to do this, which is why karaoke outlets thrive. Your studio can work in a similar way by providing the space and tools people need to express themselves musically.
Why this works:
- Higher earning potential – Running an academy means you’re no longer limited to charging per lesson. You can design packages – monthly memberships, day passes, or trial offers during a special sale. Displaying your price options clearly allows potential students to view and easily add classes to their schedule.
- Diversify instruments – While the guitar will be your main focus, you can add other options like bass guitar, acoustic guitar, acoustic piano, digital piano, or even drum lessons. Collaborating with other tutors can help you expand your offerings even further. You can also make these instruments available to anyone for practising (those who don’t own an instrument) or enjoy making music with their friends.
- Flexible packages – Students may want one-on-one lessons, group sessions, or specialised training. You can also design packages for casual musicians or friend groups who simply want to rent the space, practice together, or enjoy making music in a fun setting. By offering different formats at different prices, you open the door to both dedicated students and hobbyists while maximising your reach and revenue.
- Setting up your space – Your studio doesn’t need to be huge. A single room with proper soundproofing, audio equipment, and a mix of electric and acoustic guitars can create the perfect learning atmosphere. Even a home-based studio can be marketed as a “private academy,” as long as it’s well-prepared and inviting. Don’t forget to check your local law about setting up a home studio!
Marketing your academy:
Leverage both online and offline platforms to grow your student base. Platforms like local classifieds or even social media allow you to showcase your services. Provide details, add (lesson packages, regular price or opening sale, and availability) so people can easily view and visit your space or enrol on your classes.
A music academy not only gives you a steady flow of income, but it also positions you as a professional educator in the Singapore music scene. Whether you teach beginners starting on a nylon string guitar or advanced players looking to master the electric bass guitar, your academy could become a trusted hub for passionate learners over time.
That said, of course, this isn’t an option for everyone – it requires significant investment to set up. From renting or renovating a space to buying instruments, you’ll likely need updated and reliable brands like Yamaha or Fender, which can be costly. But don’t worry, we’ve got another idea that works for almost any guitarist looking to teach in Singapore. Keep reading.
Why You Should Consider Guitar Tutoring as a Side Hustle?
As promised, here we are! Out of the many job options available today, guitar tutoring stands out as one of the most rewarding ways to get paid in SGD for your passion. Whether you specialise in acoustic guitar, acoustic-electric guitar, electric guitar, or even bass guitar, tutoring allows you to share your knowledge while enjoying a flexible schedule and steady income.
Here’s why guitar tutoring stands out as a side hustle:
a) Flexible schedule that works for you
Unlike a regular 9–6 job, tutoring gives you complete control over your calendar. You can schedule lessons on weekday evenings, weekends, or whenever you’re free. You can also decide whether to teach online or in person, offer private lessons, semi-private sessions, or even group classes. Many tutors charge per session, usually based on hourly rates, with flexibility to adjust depending on the lesson type. This means you can commit as much or as little time as you want, whether it’s alongside your full-time job or as your primary career.
b) Freedom to design your lessons
Whether you’re guiding beginners on a nylon string guitar, teaching advanced techniques on an electric guitar, or showing students how to master a bass guitar pickguard setup, you decide what and how you teach. This creative freedom lets you break away from traditional methods and design lessons that reflect your style. You can also add value by offering extras like sheet music, audio recordings, or song breakdowns as optional packages for students who want more.
c) Extra income without heavy investment
Unlike opening a music academy or studio, getting started as a guitar tutor doesn’t require a large upfront cost. You already have your guitars, basses, and strings, and students often bring their own instruments. This means your tutoring income goes straight into your pocket. All you need to prepare is space if you’re using your space to teach students. Make sure it’s soundproof!
d) Build credibility and long-term opportunities
Every lesson you teach adds to your experience and builds your reputation in the tutors’ community. Positive student reviews can attract more learners, word of mouth can boost your visibility in the community, and over time, you can even branch out into workshops or online courses. With consistent effort, your guitar tutoring side hustle can grow into a long-term, rewarding career path.
Guitar tutoring in Singapore isn’t just about money; it’s about turning your love for music into a flexible, fulfilling, and profitable venture. Whether it’s helping someone strum their first chord on an acoustic guitar or guiding them through string electric bass techniques, you get to make an impact while earning extra income.
Why Superprof is the Best Place to Start Your Tutoring Journey?
We get it – the hardest part of starting out as a guitar tutor is finding students. You’re new, you don’t have any reviews yet, and you’re not sure how to compete with more experienced tutors. The good news? With Superprof, you don’t have to worry too much.
Superprof is a trusted global platform that connects over 34 million tutors with motivated students across the world. Whether you want to teach acoustic guitar, electric guitar, or bass guitar, it’s the easiest way to start earning extra income in SGD without struggling to market yourself.
Here’s why Superprof is the best choice for new tutors:
1. Large Student Base
Superprof has thousands of students searching for guitar lessons daily. You don’t need to push heavy advertising – students will view your profile details, add you to their favourites, and contact you directly.
2. Full Tutor Control
Set your own rates (price per hour in SGD), decide whether to teach online or in person, and design your lesson style. You’re fully in charge. We’re simply providing the platform for tutors and students to connect.
3. Verified & Trusted Platform
Superprof provides tutor verification and a transparent review system. Your profiles are thoroughly vetted before going live on our platform. This boosts your credibility instantly, even if you’re new to tutoring.
4. Zero Registration Fees
There’s no commission charged and no registration fee. You don’t pay to be listed, and you can even offer a first free trial lesson to attract more students.
5. Flexibility with Reach
Whether you want students in your neighbourhood, all around Singapore or across the world (through online lessons), Superprof gives you the flexibility to choose. You are not limited to Singaporean students only; you can expand your student portfolio with this flexibility and still earn in SGD.
6. Build a Long-Term Reputation
With each positive review, your tutor profile moves higher in the search results, giving you greater visibility and attracting more students for long-term growth on our platform. Once you’ve built a strong track record of student feedback, you can even earn the “Ambassador” badge – placing your profile right at the top of search results.
So instead of struggling to find students on your own, Superprof acts as your ready-made stage – connecting you with motivated learners who are actively looking for guitar lessons. Don’t wait any longer. Sign up today, create your free profile, and start your tutoring journey with Superprof.
That said, if you’re a student looking to learn guitar in Singapore with the goal of one day becoming a tutor yourself, we’ve got you covered. On Superprof, you’ll find over 22,842 verified guitar tutors in Singapore, each with their own style, experience, and teaching approach. Lessons start from as low as SGD 35, making it affordable to begin your journey.
Even better, many tutors offer your first class for FREE – so you can test the waters before committing. All you need to do is sign up for a free account on our website, browse through tutor profiles, and pick the one that best fits your needs.
Guitar Career Tips: How to Stay Employable and Relevant
The music industry is dynamic, and guitarists need to evolve constantly to stay employable – especially if you’re a guitar teacher. This applies whether you’re teaching, performing solo, a freelance guitar player, or playing as part of a guitar band. Here are some practical ways to secure long-term success:
- Diversify Your Skills: Avoid limiting yourself to just acoustic guitar lessons. Learn to switch between acoustic guitar, electric bass guitar, and even jazz bass guitar. Employers and event organisers often prefer versatile players who can handle multiple genres.
- Keep Your Gear in Top Shape: A well-maintained guitar always makes a stronger impression. Clients don’t want technical issues mid-performance. Invest in quality gear and take care of it – whether it’s Yamaha models, black or white finishes, or natural wood guitars. Check your gear regularly, keep your strings fresh, and ensure accessories like pedals and effects work flawlessly. Clients often view your gear as part of your professionalism, and it can even affect your fees for lessons or performances.
- Leverage Technology: Build an online portfolio by uploading recordings and performances. Even a simple audio sample of your nylon string guitar or electric guitar can help you land session work. Platforms like YouTube and Instagram are powerful for showcasing your skills and attracting clients who are looking for a guitarist for gigs or lessons.
- Network consistently: Attend events, join guitar societies, and engage in online forums. In a competitive market like Singapore, networking is as important as talent. A casual jam session could lead to your next paid gig.
- Adapt to Trends: Hybrid gigs (live + streamed) are increasingly common. Be prepared with the right setup, whether it’s plugging in your string electric bass or syncing with a digital piano.
Staying relevant as a guitarist isn’t just about having the skill; it’s about being proactive, versatile, and professional. After all, the guitar is more than just an instrument – it’s a tool for storytelling, creativity, and connection, and that’s why every beginner should know the importance of building good habits early. With the right mindset, you’ll keep the income flowing and open doors to exciting guitar player jobs in Singapore and beyond.
Turn your guitar skills into income – from lessons to gigs, Superprof helps you earn in SGD.
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