someone who plays a musical instrument (as a profession)
"The local musician earned her living by playing the violin at weddings and banquets."
artist who composes or conducts music as a profession
"The renowned musician spent years composing symphonies and conducting orchestras before finally releasing her debut album."
A composer, conductor, or performer of music; specifically, a person who sings and/or plays a musical instrument as a hobby, an occupation, or a profession.
"Maria became a full-time musician after years of practicing the violin in her spare time."
In plain English: A musician is someone who plays an instrument, sings, or composes music as their main skill or hobby.
"The talented musician played her guitar while singing softly for the crowd."
Usage: Use musician to refer to anyone who performs on instruments or sings professionally or as a serious hobby. Avoid using it for composers unless they also perform their own works live.
The word comes from the Old French term musicien, which combined the word for music with a suffix meaning "one who practices." It entered English through Middle English with this same sense of a person who plays or performs music.