Overview

Although there are definitely many career options for musicians, you don’t necessarily have to be a musician to have a great career in music. The field of music encompasses much more than just the traditional forms such as education, composition and performance; it embraces many other skill sets, including creative, technical and business aspects. If you have a passion for music and the arts, there’s a place in this field for you.

Music careers can include technical professions such as audio engineering and recording; business-related professions such as management, promotion and distribution; or more creative professions such as composing. producing and performing. Whatever your interests, and whatever your talent, the important central element to a career in this field is a love for music and a desire to see musicians succeed. Whether you are a musician or a music lover, there is a rewarding career awaiting you!

Average Salary: $26,090 Top Salary: $63,000 Entry Level Salary: $19,000 Job Growth Forecast: up 9%

A lead audio technician has to be able to make transfers to and from various types of audio recording and playback equipment and that includes digital storage devices. The industry is characterized by a large number of seasonal and part-time jobs and relatively young workers. There is competition for this job in major metropolitan areas, because the pay generally is better. Overall, earnings are relatively low, but better in small cities. Read More...

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Average Salary: $43,010 Top Salary: $90,770 Entry Level Salary: $21,050 Job Growth Forecast: up 9%

What they do:
A sound technician is usually responsible for making sure the sound coming from a live or taped source is processed as clearly as possible. Sound technicians operate control panels and direct the operation of equipment to regulate the clarity of the sound range and signal strength. Typically the sound is being recorded or edited. The sounds that are processed can include music, voices, and special effects. Sound technicians work for a variety of commercial and entertainment purposes. Technicians also maintain and take care of their equipment. They also often are in charge of a crew of technicians who perform other sound engineering chores, such as setting up microphones and running cables. Read More...

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Average Salary: $36,870 Top Salary: $82,510 Entry Level Salary: $18,540 Average Hours: 60 Job Growth Forecast: up 9%

What they do:
Recording, or audio engineering, is a part of audio science dealing with the recording and reproduction of sound. Operate audio equipment to record and edit music, dialog and sound effects for films, videos, radio and television programs and recordings. The mixing board is a recording engineer’s best friend, as they operate equipment to record, mix and edit sound, music and videotape for motion pictures, television and radio programs, videos, music recordings and live events. This field draws on many disciplines — electrical engineering, acoustics, as well as music. A recording engineer is close to the creative and technical aspects of audio and they need to be good at different types of recording media, such as analog tape, digital multi-track recorders and workstations. Read More...

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Average Salary: $41,270 Top Salary: $107,280 Entry Level Salary: $16,750 Job Growth Forecast: up 2%

What they do:
A musical producer conducts, plans, directs and or leads either vocal or instrumental performances by musical groups, such as choirs, orchestras, glee clubs, etc. and this include composers, arrangers, orchestrators and choral directors. The industries that use a musical producer or composer include: independent artists, writers, and performers, social advocacy organizations, elementary and secondary schools, promoters of performing arts, sports, and similar events, performing arts companies, and religious organizations. Read More...

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