In medieval times, the payment of musicians varied greatly depending on their social status and the type of music they performed. Musicians who were part of the royal or noble courts were often well-compensated, with some receiving salaries that were comparable to those of other high-ranking officials. Guild musicians, who were members of trade associations called guilds, also received regular wages. However, musicians who were itinerant performers or who played for common people were often paid very little, and they may have had to supplement their income by performing other jobs. In general, the higher the social status of the musician and the more prestigious the type of music they performed, the greater the likelihood that they would be well-compensated.