For Students & Parents

Why Choose a Career in Music?

Get started on your journey with helpful facts and advice for students and parents.

A career in music offers a vast array of opportunities beyond the traditional roles of performer and teacher. The music industry is dynamic and ever-evolving, providing numerous pathways for those who combine creativity, technical acumen, and curiosity with strong organizational and teamwork skills. Individuals passionate about music and equipped with these qualities are in high demand.

Variety

The creative industry is perpetually evolving with hundreds of exciting and rewarding career opportunities and professional communities.

Community

The music industry is made up of creative, collaborative, and generous professionals eager to welcome passionate individuals into the global music community.

Purpose

Music has a profound and positive effect on the world. A life in music is a life with purpose.

Stability

The music industry holds hundreds of options for a sustainable life in music, and the demand for skilled employees is extremely high.

Sustainability

Music careers offer substantial financial stability, with median annual incomes ranging from $49,000 to $79,000, with leadership roles commanding salaries upwards of $230,000 and much more.

Get the Toolkit

Information, tips, and tools that will help you discover and share the numerous career opportunities available in the music industry.

Careers in Music Toolkit

Pathways to Consider

Numerous pathways exist for pursuing a career in music, and the path you choose will depend on your interests, skills, motivations, and objectives. Although there is no universal route to a career in music, here are several common pathways to consider:

Formal Education

Pursue a degree in music—whether it’s a major, minor, or a two-year degree—from a conservatory, college, university, or through a professional training program. Degree options include music teaching, performance, arranging, composition, music business, pro audio, and technology.

Internships

Work as an intern at a music company or organization while pursuing higher education. Internships provide valuable insights into a company’s products, culture, and administrative processes. They offer an opportunity to network with professionals at various stages of their careers and to explore potential career paths.

Apprenticeships

Seek an apprenticeship in the music industry, particularly for roles that require specialized technical skills such as instrument building, stagecraft, or event support. Apprenticeships typically offer paid, on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Private Lessons/Self-Study

Take private lessons with a skilled music teacher. This pathway provides personalized instruction tailored to specific needs. New and evolving technologies provide a multitude of self-study options. Continuous learning and self-improvement are key themes for every music career.

Entrepreneurship

Develop entrepreneurial skills to create your own opportunities within the music industry. Consider starting a music teaching business, developing a product or service, establishing a record label, or organizing concerts. Harnessing your creative energy to innovate and explore new avenues for making music can drive these endeavors forward.

Networking

Attend events like The NAMM Show and state music conferences to meet industry professionals and fellow musicians, and explore job prospects. Networking is vital in the music industry for developing ideas, enhancing skills, and expanding career opportunities.

Explore Resources

Dive into our curated collection of career-related articles, videos, references, and job sites.

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Start a Conversation

For Students

Share your interests and aspirations with parents, teachers, and counselors using the toolkit materials as a reference. Talk to people who currently work in the music industry at events like educator conferences or The NAMM Show, to meet professionals in occupations you’re interested in.

For Parents

Talk to your high schooler about future career goals and how they align with opportunities in the music industry. Use the toolkit materials to start a conversation with educators and school counselors about establishing the pathways and skills needed for a career in music.