FMendel

So, I've been thinking about this for a long time, and by 'this', I mean 'changing careers and becoming a musician/composer'. I'm currently what most people would describe as an 'amateur' musician; I'm pretty decent on the piano and euphonium/tuba, and have passable skills on most other brass as well. I've also written a fair few pieces for piano solo, brass ensemble and orchestra. My career as it stands is satisfying; I pretty much am my own boss and it's something I've trained for for over ten years, but lately all I seem to think about is leaving it and trying to make it as a composer. However, the rational part of me tells me this is silly and thus I'm in need of help to dissuade me. I'm sure some of you have known people in my position who've done the same thing and have failed - it's a tough world. What I'd like to hear is a kind of 'worst-case' scenario to put me off, or at least try to give me a greater perspective on how difficult it is to make it as a musician. Any other advice would be appreciated too! Thanks, Franklin