According to a 2019 study conducted by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in the United States, an estimated 50.9 million adults (aged 18 and older) in the country participated in some form of musical activity in the previous 12 months. Of these, 31.5 million were classified as amateur musicians, based on their self-reported skill level and frequency of participation.
The European Union (EU) also provides some insights into the number of amateur musicians in its member states. A 2010 Eurobarometer survey on cultural consumption found that approximately 40% of EU citizens had engaged in some form of music-making during the past 12 months. This includes both amateur musicians who play for their own enjoyment or as a hobby, as well as those who participate in music ensembles or bands.
Furthermore, the International Federation for Choral Music (IFCM) estimates that there are approximately 270 million active choir singers worldwide, the vast majority of whom are amateur musicians who participate in choirs or vocal ensembles for social, recreational, or artistic purposes.
These figures provide snapshots of the amateur music scene in different parts of the world, but it's important to note that they vary based on cultural, social, and economic factors. Additionally, many amateur musicians may not actively participate in formal organizations or ensembles, and their involvement in music may be more informal and sporadic.