Are you or your child passionate about music and curious about where that passion could lead? At Keen School of Music, we know that the love of music can open doors to a wide range of exciting and fulfilling careers. Whether it's performing on stage, writing songs, or working behind the scenes in the studio, there are numerous pathways for musicians to pursue. Our educators serve as great examples of this diversity. Adam Shea, for instance, is a songwriter and performer who studied guitar performance in college and now helps students find their own musical voice. Aaron Keen, turned his love of composition into a career in music education and music arrangement after studying music composition in college. Tommy, another one of our instructors, performs regularly with his siblings, the Lubben Brothers, all while sharing his expertise with students.
If you or your child has a passion for music, you may be surprised to discover the wide variety of careers available. This blog post explores many options, from traditional roles like teaching and performing to specialized careers like sound design and instrument repair. Let’s check out some musical careers together!
1. Music Teacher / Educator
Music teachers play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of musicians, teaching students the fundamentals of music, performance, and theory. They work in various settings, including schools, private studios, and universities. A career in music education can range from teaching general music classes to specialized instruction in instruments or voice.
Why You May Love this Career: The world can never have too many educators. If you love sharing knowledge with others, this could be an incredibly rewarding career choice. This career is especially rewarding if you love children! Many musicians teach full time or even part time.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Music Education or Music Performance, often with a teaching certification. Advanced roles may require a Master's or Doctorate. A degree is required to teach in schools, while you do not need a degree to teach private lessons.
Average Salary: $45,000 - $70,000 annually, with variations based on location and level of education.
Example: Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser, a respected figure in music education, has authored several influential books on teaching.
"Teaching music is not just about notes and rhythms; it's about building character and fostering creativity." — Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser
Check out this short video about the impact of a music educator
2. Professional Musician / Performer
Professional musicians perform live or record in studios, specializing in various genres like classical, jazz, pop, or rock. They may work as soloists, ensemble members, session players or part of orchestras. This career requires a combination of technical skill, stage presence, and adaptability.
Why You May Love this Career: Do you love the thrill of performing? There are a lot of options for performers. People often assume that if you want to be a performer, you want to be the frontman- that is not always the case. Many musicians have a lucrative career being a musician for hire or a session musician. You would be surprised to see how common it is for musicians to work as session musicians for recording studios! (Do yourself a favor and look up Carol Kaye's incredible career as a session musician)
Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance is often preferred, with many musicians undergoing intensive private training from a young age.
Average Salary: $30,000 - $70,000 annually, but high-profile musicians can earn significantly more.
Example: Yo-Yo Ma, a world-renowned cellist, is celebrated for his technical mastery and emotive performances.
"Music is not just what I do; it’s who I am." — Yo-Yo Ma
Check out this video on Ed Sheeran talking about how much work it takes to make it as a performer.
3. Composer / Arranger
Composers and arrangers write and adapt music for orchestras, ensembles, films, and other media. They create original pieces and rework existing compositions to fit specific contexts, such as film scores, advertisements, or concerts. Creativity and a deep understanding of music theory are crucial in this role.
Why You May Love this Career: Composers have the freedom to conceptualize, write, and arrange music to bring their creative vision to life! The skills needed for this career can also be used by performers, producers, and educators who need to write out arrangements for different group settings. This career does require a lot of study and understanding of music theory and different styles of ensembles.
Education: A degree in Composition or Music Theory is common. Advanced positions may require a Master’s degree in Composition.
Average Salary: $40,000 - $85,000 annually, depending on project scope and experience.
Example: John Williams, a legendary film composer, has created iconic scores for movies like Star Wars and Jurassic Park.
"Composing is like solving a puzzle; each note must fit perfectly." — John Williams
Check out this video of Hanz Zimmer breaking down his extensive career in music composition for film
4. Music Therapist
Music therapists use music to help individuals improve their emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. They work with a diverse clientele, including children with developmental disabilities, adults dealing with mental health issues, and elderly patients in palliative care.
Why You May Love this Career: Have you thought about pursuing a career in therapy? You may love being a music therapist because you get to connect with people and bring joy, healing, strength, hope, and music to people!
Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy, followed by certification through the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).
Average Salary: $40,000 - $70,000 annually.
Example: Dr. Deforia Lane has made significant contributions to music therapy, especially in oncology settings.
"Music can touch people’s lives in profound ways, helping them find comfort and healing." — Dr. Deforia Lane
Check out this video about music therapy
5. Songwriter / Lyricist
Songwriters and lyricists craft the words and melodies that make up the songs we listen to every day. They often collaborate with performers, producers, and other songwriters to create music for various genres. Successful songwriters understand the intricacies of catchy hooks and impactful lyrics.
Why You May Love this Career: If you love writing poetry, stories, or journaling, you may love songwriting! Some people love to perform, but they aren't into performing cover songs, so they write their own material. If you enjoy letting your audience get to know you better through your original songs, that can be a great motivation to write music! You can also write music for other performers!
Education: No formal education is required, but many benefit from studying music theory, creative writing, or communication.
Average Salary: $40,000 - $200,000 annually, with top songwriters earning much more due to royalties.
Example: Max Martin is a prolific songwriter known for crafting hits for artists like Katy Perry and The Weeknd.
"Songwriting is capturing a moment, a feeling, and turning it into something universal." — Max Martin
Check out this interview of Taylor Swift breaking down her creative process
6. Music Producer
Music producers oversee the recording process, guiding artists and shaping the sound of a song or album. They handle everything from selecting instruments to working with engineers on mixing and mastering. Producers are often the creative force behind a record’s final sound. Usually, music producers have experience playing a wide variety of instrument.
Why You May Love this Career: Being a music producer means that you are well-placed to be an integral part of the technical and creative production of the music and sound behind an artist, and you can use your skill set to guide your clients within the music industry!
Education: A degree in Music Production, Audio Engineering, or a related field is helpful. Experience and a strong portfolio are often more critical.
Average Salary: $50,000 - $100,000 annually, with top producers earning well into six or seven figures.
Example: Rick Rubin, co-founder of Def Jam Records, is a producer known for his minimalist style.
"A good producer is an invisible architect of sound, making the artist’s vision come to life." — Rick Rubin
This is a pretty long video, but it's an incredible interview to check out. This is Brendan O'Brien's first ever full length interview.
7. Audio Engineer
Audio engineers are responsible for capturing, mixing, and mastering audio in studios, live settings, and other environments. They work with microphones, mixing boards, and digital software to ensure the highest sound quality. This role requires technical expertise and a deep understanding of acoustics.
Why You May Love this Career: Audio engineering may be a good career for you if you love working with technology and working on creative projects. It requires you to be detail-oriented and able to work well under pressure, while also being innovative and adventurous.
Education: A degree in Audio Engineering or Sound Technology is typical. Many engineers gain experience through internships or apprenticeships.
Average Salary: $30,000 - $90,000 annually, depending on location and experience
.
Sound, is a renowned audio engineer and producer.
"Engineering is the art of listening — understanding what the music needs and how to make it happen." — Leslie Ann Jones
Here we have yet another Rick Beato video! We can't help it, we love Rick Beato. Check out this interview with audio engineer, Dave Natale, as he chats about live audio engineering.
8. Conductor / Music Director
Conductors and music directors lead orchestras, choirs, and other musical ensembles, guiding musicians through rehearsals and performances. They interpret scores, set tempos, and shape the overall sound of a performance. Conductors need strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of musical structure.
Why You May Love this Career: You might enjoy being a conductor if you enjoy leadership roles. You have to have the ability to communicate effectively with the musicians of the orchestra, both in and out of rehearsal, and create an environment that inspires success. If you are a natural leader, then you would make for a great music director or conductor.
Education: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Conducting or Music Performance. Many conductors start as instrumentalists or vocalists.
Average Salary: $50,000 - $150,000 annually, depending on the size of the ensemble and prestige of the institution.
Example: Gustavo Dudamel, conductor of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, is celebrated for his dynamic and passionate leadership.
"A conductor’s role is to bring out the best in the ensemble, to make music that transcends the notes on the page." — Gustavo Dudamel
Check out this video about what a conductor does on stage!
9. Film / Video Game Composer
Composers for film and video games create music that enhances the narrative and emotional depth of visual media. They often work closely with directors, game designers, and sound engineers to ensure that the music complements the visual elements and story line.
Why You May Love this Career: As a child, were you inspired by iconic soundtracks of your favorite video games? If you love video games and you love music, becoming a video game composer may be the perfect career choice for you! Your job would be to create soundtracks that would set the mood for an entire video game!
Education: A degree in Composition, Film Scoring, or Music Production is typical. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) is essential.
Average Salary: $50,000 - $100,000, with higher earnings for established composers.
Example: Nobuo Uematsu, composer for the Final Fantasy video game series, is renowned for his emotionally resonant and intricate scores.
"The right music can change the way a story is experienced, making it unforgettable." — Nobuo Uematsu
Check out this interview about the creation of the music for Sekiro!
10. Sound Designer
Sound designers create the soundscapes for films, video games, theater, and more. They design everything from ambient sounds to unique audio effects, using synthesizers, samplers, and field recordings. Creativity and technical skill are essential for crafting immersive auditory experiences.
Why You May Love this Career: Have you ever noticed foley in media and wondered "How did they create that sound?". Bones cruching? Spaceship sounds? Creaking ghosts? If you have ever wondered how these sounds were created, you may want to consider a career in Sound Design! This career is perfect for sound effect nerds!
Education: A degree in Sound Design, Audio Engineering, or a related field is recommended.
Average Salary: $40,000 - $80,000 annually, with freelance opportunities available.
Example: Ben Burtt, a legendary sound designer, created the iconic sounds for Star Wars, including the lightsaber and the voice of R2-D2.
"Sound design is about creating a world with audio, making the impossible believable." — Ben Burtt
Ever wondered how the light saber sound was made? Check this video out!
11. Instrument Repair Technician / Luthier
Instrument repair technicians and luthiers maintain, repair, and build musical instruments. They work with woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion, often specializing in a particular type. This career requires a mix of craftsmanship and technical knowledge.
Why You May Love this Career: If you have a passion for music and a keen interest in craftsmanship, a career in musical instrument repair could be your ticket to a fulfilling career in music! This career is perfect for those who love to work with their hands, and enjoy learning the how and the why an instrument works. You can also become the go-to person who does instrument set ups for performers and go touring with them! Every performer needs a instrument tech!
Education: Training through apprenticeships or technical schools that specialize in instrument repair. Some luthiers have degrees in woodworking or craftsmanship.
Average Salary: $30,000 - $60,000 annually, depending on expertise and clientele.
Example: Bob Taylor, co-founder of Taylor Guitars, is a leading figure in modern guitar craftsmanship.
"A well-made instrument is a work of art, each one with a unique voice." — Bob Taylor
If you ever watched "How It's Made", you're going to love this video!
12. Music Historian / Ethnomusicologist
Music historians and ethnomusicologists study the history, culture, and social impact of music across different regions and time periods. They often conduct research, publish articles, and curate exhibits in museums or academic settings.
Why You May Love this Career: Do you love history? Do you love music? Whether teaching, conducting fieldwork, collaborating with communities, or contributing to cultural institutions, ethnomusicologists play a vital role in preserving, understanding, and celebrating musical diversity across the globe!
Education: A Ph.D. in Musicology, Ethnomusicology, or a related field is generally required.
Average Salary: $50,000 - $70,000 annually, often influenced by institution and publication history.
Example: Bruno Nettl, a pioneering ethnomusicologist, is known for his research on non-Western music traditions.
"Music is the story of humanity, and studying it reveals our collective history." — Bruno Nettl
John Vallier, Assistant Professor and Ethnomusicology Curator at the University of Washington, talks about his team’s work in preserving and returning recordings of the Salish People of the Pacific Northwest.
13. Choir Director
Choir directors lead vocal ensembles in schools, churches, and community groups. They select repertoire, conduct rehearsals, and prepare the choir for performances. This role requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and a deep understanding of vocal techniques.
Why You May Love this Career: As a choir director, your job would be to choose pieces that fit the choir's abilities, the venue, and the audience, along with coaching singers on vocal techniques, dynamics, and expression. If you are interested in music education, choir, or just vocal performance in general, you may enjoy being a choir director!
Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Music Education or Choral Conducting is typical, with advanced degrees often required for higher-level positions.
Average Salary: $40,000 - $75,000 annually, depending on the size and location of the choir.
Example: Eric Whitacre is a Grammy-winning composer and conductor known for his work with choral ensembles.
"Choral music is about building a community through song." — Eric Whitacre
Have you ever wondered how a choir coordinates all of its members? James Stegall provides essential tips to organizing a choir, and demonstrates how it may apply to other large groups.
14. Acoustic Consultant
Acoustic consultants advise on sound design and acoustics in architectural spaces, such as concert halls, recording studios, and public buildings. They ensure optimal sound quality, managing factors like reverb, echo, and noise isolation. This field combines music knowledge with physics and engineering.
Why You May Love this Career: If you are interested in a career in engineering, but also love music, you may want to consider a career in acoustic consultation. Acoustical specialists work with architects to design buildings that control sound absorption, refraction, diffraction, and reverberation. They can also design sound-treated environments, such as recording studios, or improve the acoustics of auditoriums, concert halls, and public meeting areas. It is an incredibly important job, that is often overlooked as a career choice.
Education: A degree in Acoustic Engineering, Physics, or a related field is required. Many have additional training in music or sound design.
Average Salary: $50,000 - $100,000 annually, depending on expertise and projects.
Example: Yasuhisa Toyota, an acoustician known for his work on the Walt Disney Concert Hall, has designed some of the most renowned performance spaces globally.
"Acoustics is about creating spaces where sound can breathe and be fully experienced." — Yasuhisa Toyota
Check out this short video talking about acoustical engineering!
15. Instrumental Performer in Orchestras
Instrumental performers in orchestras are skilled musicians who specialize in particular instruments, playing as part of larger ensembles. They perform a wide range of repertoire, from classical to contemporary, often working under the direction of a conductor.
Why You May Love this Career: If you have a love for classical music, you may love a career as a performer for orchestras. This job wold require you to master the demanding repertoire of orchestral music requires extensive practice and technical skill development in your instrument.
Education: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Music Performance, with intense individual training and practice from an early age.
Average Salary: $30,000 - $80,000 annually, with top-tier orchestras paying higher.
Example: Anne-Sophie Mutter, a celebrated violinist, has performed with orchestras worldwide, earning acclaim for her virtuosic technique.
"Playing in an orchestra is about creating a collective voice, a unity of sound that’s bigger than any individual." — Anne-Sophie Mutter
Check out this short video about the life of an orchestral musician
Conclusion for Careers in Music
At Keen School of Music, we see firsthand the myriad of ways that music can shape a life and career. Whether you’re dreaming of performing on stage, composing for film, teaching the next generation, or crafting instruments by hand, there is a place for you in the world of music. Adam, Aaron, Tommy, and the rest of our team are here to guide and support aspiring musicians of all ages and skill levels as they explore different musical careers, and find their place in the world.
Remember, a career in music isn’t just about fame—it’s about passion, dedication, and the joy of sharing music with the world. If you’re considering a future in music, whether it’s performing, producing, teaching, or something entirely different, there is something out there for anyone who loves music, whether you lean more towards writing and the arts, or you lean more towards physics and science. There is a place for everyone who loves music.
References
American Music Therapy Association. (2020). Music Therapy Fact Sheet. Link
Nettl, B. (2005). The Study of Ethnomusicology: Thirty-one Issues and Concepts. University of Illinois Press.
Williams, J. (1994). The Craft of Music Composition. Berklee Press.
Whitacre, E. (2015). Choral Conducting Techniques and Principles. Oxford University Press.
Taylor, B. (2020). The Art of Guitar Making. Hal Leonard.
Rubin, R. (2013). Behind the Music: A Producer’s Journey. Chronicle Books.
Dudamel, G. (2010). Conducting as a Form of Expression. Los Angeles Philharmonic Archives.
Uematsu, N. (2009). Video Game Music and Emotional Resonance. Tokyo: Game Symphony Press.
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