How long until you are competent?

I'm a high school senior who is very interested in programming as a backup option for if my acceptance to music school does not happen, or happens with too little scholarship money to afford it. I'm pretty big on math, and have done a bit of Learn Python The Hard Way. I guess my question is, with or without college, how long does it seem to take until most people are able to begin programming for money?

I know it's a lifelong-learning experience, but surely there has to be a point in which you can support yourself on your work.

>>16 Very sorry my friend, but there is little I can do for you. From my understanding programs like this are very rare, and the one I went through was the first attempt at anything like this in the area (maybe the country, not sure). I discovered it through going to user group meetings, which occasionally have recruiters available. You can find info on your local Java User Group, or JUG if you prefer acronyms, pretty easily I imagine.

Also, it's 3:20 AM so I'll throw this out there: I'm clearly the most successful of my high school / college friends, but in many ways I'm quite sad. I miss my home, my family, my friends, and the warm southern sun very much. It's only been 2 months though, maybe I'll get used to this frozen cornfield. At least the people are nice here. The mall is pretty cool. So don't get in a rush I guess. Being happy is a lot more than being successful (but it sure helps a lot).