Are There Any Successful Musicians Who Didn't Have Formal Training in Music?

The question of whether successful musicians have formal music training is often debated among music enthusiasts and educators alike. A notable example of this debate is the case of The Beatles—John Lennon, George Harrison, and Paul McCartney. They didn’t follow traditional paths in music education but managed to become legendary musicians. How did they do it?

John Lennon, George Harrison, and Paul McCartney: The Beatles’ Musical Journey

During the skiffle craze of the 1950s in the UK, many young males, including Lennon, Harrison, and McCartney, picked up guitars. Some might have purchased Bert Weedon's "Play In A Day" book, but for the most part, it was an instrument—together with Woodbines and learning new chords informally.

Learning new chords often came from mixing with other enthusiasts. When someone figured out an "unknown" chord, it quickly got passed down among the local "skiffle" fraternity. It's rare for dedicated guitar teachers to have been in high demand given the limited popularity of the guitar until it morphed into rock 'n' roll.

Music Shop Insights

My mother worked in a music shop where she suggested getting a couple of arch top acoustics for the aspiring musicians. Her boss, however, despised the new music and was skeptical. Eventually, a new music store opened, and the old boss’s store became obsolete. This experience highlights the snobbery and skepticism towards self-taught musicians, a bias that the music industry has historically exhibited.

Self-Taught Drums: The Case of a Legendary Drummer

A case in point is that of a self-taught drummer who sought advice from Terry Bozzio, the legendary drummer. While the drummer did not have formal training in drum techniques, he engaged in "dialogue lessons" where he discussed time concepts with Bozzio. This shows that even self-taught musicians can benefit from guidance and advice from more experienced professionals.

These interactions highlight the importance of informal learning and mentorship in the development of musical talent. While self-taught musicians often learn from each other or with the help of mentors, the question of whether they were truly 100% self-taught can be debated.

The Rarity of True Self-Taught Musicians

It's challenging to find famous musicians who are completely self-taught, as the majority seek some form of advice or mentorship. Even those without formal training may have talked to music masters for advice on what to study, which still counts as a form of music lesson.

Conclusion

While self-taught musicians manage to succeed despite limited formal training, the story of The Beatles and the drumming case teach us that seeking advice and mentorship can significantly enhance one's musical journey. Whether self-taught or formally trained, the journey to become a successful musician involves learning, passion, and sometimes a bit of chance.