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.

>>36
Salman was born to indian parents in the US. How is he a jew?
Jewish-Indian family moved to US. That is very common. Jews from different country also frequently intermarry to maintain genetics and better contact.

How long until you are competent?
Exactly 10000 hours of deliberate practice.

>>37
BTW, look at his co-authors:
http://www.stepanovpapers.com/
David, Aaron, Szymanski... that is fucking synagogue!