Good thread!

I myself has been in the contemporary line for more than 10 years.

Started by studying in a local music college - played piano in hotel - joined a production house after graduated - quit production house - joined college to setup courses
- played for 2 years in a club/pub - quit college - setup own production house till now.

All in all, you really must try to explore into different areas before you really know what you want.

Most importantly, do what you enjoy doing it, even the monetary return is ZERO or NONE.

If you are good enough, someday you will get a break!