Music

Major/Career Profile

General Description

Careers in music may be classified into five primary employment areas. Music majors may choose to train as performers (including conductors), composers/arrangers, teachers, historians or therapists. Music professionals are employed throughout the country, although more opportunities in some fields exist in metropolitan areas where entertainment and recording activities are concentrated.

Most people who enter music careers begin studying an instrument or voice at an early age. Music performers, whether they play in a symphony orchestra, jazz or rock group, usually undergo many years of formal and informal training. A thorough knowledge of music, the ability to interpret music, private study with an accomplished musician and training at a university or conservatory are necessary to acquire the technical skills necessary for success. Other necessary qualities include: talent, versatility, creative ability and the stage presence to face an audience. Additionally, constant study, practice and self-discipline are necessary to maintain a high quality of performance.

Career Options

Graduates with this major have found work as: Music Teacher, Choral Director, Orchestra Conductor, Music Director, Singer, Arranger, Composer, Copyist, Musician, Music Therapist, Musical Instrument Sales Representative, Music Librarian, Music Critic, Music Editor, Musical Instrument Technician, Talent Agent, and Performing Arts Manager. Some of these careers require additional education or experience. Various entry-level trainee positions in business and industry are available for graduates regardless of academic discipline.

Typical Employers

Colleges and universities, hospitals, instrument/record manufacturers, hotels, music conservatories, musical groups, private dance studios, radio and TV industry, symphony groups, theatre, and self-employment.

Salary and Employment Outlook

Employment of musicians as a whole is expected to grow about as fast as the average through the year 2010. Opportunities in the performing music field remain very competitive. The supply of qualified musicians exceeds the demand. Beginners who are versatile and can play both classical and popular music or who are qualified to teach have more opportunities in the job market.

Musicians may be paid by the week, the performance or concert, the production, the session, the recording, or by the day.

Salaries will vary by size and type of employer, number of hours worked, geographic location, course work and related experience. Consult the Career Development Center for current local and national salary information.

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