Career Opportunities in Music

Some students pursue careers closely related to music, such as performers, educators, songwriters, conductors, arrangers, composers and actors. Others choose careers behind the scenes, or in the business area of music in careers such as producers, engineers, managers, agents, and in publishing and sales. Many careers do not require a specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and accomplishments. Thus, some graduates pursue careers in fields quite unrelated to music. Regardless of your career choices, increasing your marketability to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades and involvement in college activities is important. A bachelor's degree is sufficient for many entry-level positions, but for advancement in an area of specialization, an advanced degree may be required.

A Sample of Related Occupations

Advertising Specialist

Instrument Design/Restoration

Public Relations Specialist

Art Director

Lawyer - Music Industry

Publications Specialist

Artist & Repertoire (A&R) Person

Lobbyist

Publicist

Band Leader

Manager

Recording Technician

Composer/Arranger

Music Attorney

Sales/Marketing Representative

Concert Promoter

Music Critic

Singer/Performer

Copy Writer

Music Publisher

Special Events Coordinator

Copyright Specialist

Music Software Programmer

Studio Musician

Critic

Music Teacher

Talent Agent

Disc Jockey

Music Therapist

Teacher/Professor

Editor

Musician

Technical Writer

Engineer/Mixer

Orchestra Librarian

Tour Manager

Film Music Director/Editor

Promoter

Writer/Music Journals