We musicians aren’t in this business to make money. There isn’t very much to speak of, and the government gets most of that. Nor are we in it for personal fame (there isn’t much of that, either), or ego gratification (ditto). In fact, taken at face value, it’s a lousy deal all the way around.

Then why?

Because it’s fun, that’s why. To be sure, some folks burn out and lose that excitement and visceral joy that brought them into music in the first place. But a lot of people don’t; in fact, they just glow all the brighter with time and achievement, continually psyched about the music they’re making, whether through composing, playing, teaching, or communicating.

-Scott Fogelberg (found here)