Occupations in this group usually require education and/or training ranging from two to more than ten years. Professional instrumental musicians usually begin their training while in elementary school and continue training throughout their working lives, with several hours of practice each day necessary for the development and maintenance of required skills. They study music theory, which includes melody, rhythm, harmony, texture, and form. Courses are offered in high schools, colleges, and music academies, and by private instructors.
Although some persons with great natural talent may find work and even achieve great success as rock, country, or jazz singers or instrumental musicians, they are the rare exceptions. Study in college, at a music conservatory, or with private teachers is recommended for people who want to become professional musicians. Courses in music theory, composition, and conducting are required in addition to technical instruction. Arrangers, composers, and conductors need extensive training in these subjects.
Membership in a musical group is valuable experience and preparation for musicians. This experience is also helpful for people studying for solo performances.
What else should you consider about this kind of work?
There is keen competition for work in the music field. Permanent, full-time work is found at local radio and television stations, nightclubs, restaurants, and public and private schools. Musicians are also employed full-time by community bands and orchestras, and some work for music publishing firms. Music teachers give private lessons or work for schools.
Some composers are employed by motion picture or other studios, but most are self-employed. They write music which they hope will be published, or performed and recorded by well-known singers or instrumentalists. Occasionally, composers are hired to write music for films, motion pictures, TV commercials, or other special purposes.
Conductors and directors are usually hired on a permanent basis. Most have had long experience as performers. If you are interested in musical work, you should take part in amateur performances and gain as broad a background as possible in the kinds of music you can sing or play. The more versatile you are, the better your opportunities for full-time employment will be.
In many jobs in this group, you are required to work irregular hours, often late at night. Some jobs require that you travel.
What licenses and certificates are usually needed?
A state teaching license is required for public school teaching for Teacher, Music (education) in 01.04.01.
Organizations and Agencies to Contact for Additional Information about Jobs in Performing Arts: Music:
- American Choral Directors Association
- American Guild of Authors and Composers
- American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers
- American Society of Music Arrangers
- American Society of University Composers
- American Symphony Orchestra League
- Music Educators National Conference
- National Association of Schools of Music
