Everyone knows that music is a highly lucrative industry. But what many people don’t know is that there are specific jobs in the music industry that pay more than others.
If you’re passionate about music, rewarding career opportunities are available. The possibilities are endless, from working as a recording artist or live musician to composing and producing music. But if you’re looking for the highest paying music jobs, what are your options? Here we outline fifteen of the best-paid positions in the music industry. Whether entering the field or advancing your current career, read on to find the information you need to move forward.
Article Navigation: Who Should Study Music? | The Benefits of Music Careers | What Should I Study if I Want a Music Career? | What is the Music Career Outlook? | The 5 Best Entry Level Music Industry Careers | Why Consider Entry-Level Music Career? | 10 Highest Paying Music Industry Careers | Key Takeaways About Music Careers | Start Your Music Career Today!
Who Should Study Music?
Do you have a passion for music? How about a willingness to work hard and study music? If you’re looking to make a career in the music industry, it’s essential to have natural talent and dedication.
Studying music will allow you to develop your skills and improve your chances of success in music industry jobs.
The Benefits of Music Careers
A music career can be gratifying. If you’re passionate about music, it can be a great way to make a living. It’s also a creative and challenging field, leading to personal satisfaction and a sense of achievement. The following are benefits of a music career:
Making a Good Living
The music industry is vast, and there are different ways to make money. If you’re successful, you can earn a good living from your music.
Creative Pay-off
A music career allows you to express your creativity. If you’re a creative person, a music career can be ideal for using your talents. It also allows for collaboration with other creative people, a great way to learn and grow as an artist.
Traveling
If you’re a touring musician, you’ll have the opportunity to travel the world and see some fantastic places. You’ll even meet some interesting people along the way!
Making a Difference
If you’re a successful musician, you can use your platform to make a difference in the world. You might use your music to raise awareness for a cause you care about or inspire others.
Job Variety
Another significant benefit is the variety of music industry jobs available. Suppose you’re not interested in being a recording artist or live musician. There are many other occupations available, such as composition, production, and working in music education.
Alternative Lifestyle
Finally, a music career can offer an alternative lifestyle. A music career might fit you if you’re not interested in a traditional 9-5 job. Such a lifestyle can be refreshing and allow you to live your life on your terms.
What Should I Study if I Want a Music Career?
Several degrees and certificates may assist you in landing one of the most lucrative music professions or simply incorporating music into your long-term career.
The location and nature of the media will determine how much money you make. The industry is large, diverse, and constantly changing.
Some may get connected to the music business, which continues to produce songs for radio stations and performances all around the country. Others might assist with instruments, musicians, or technological concerns.
In general, you’ll find that music-related education falls into three categories:
Learn to Play Music
The first step in any musical journey is learning to play an instrument. You’ll find a variety of methods and philosophies behind teaching music. The most important aspect is that you must be willing to devote time to practice.
You might start by taking group lessons or private instruction from a music teacher. Some choose to learn independently with the help of online resources or books. Do a little research and find an approach that works for you. Then stick with it.
Learn about the Business of the Music Industry
The music industry is a complex beast. Success means understanding the ins and outs of the business. Everything from learning how to sell your music to handling legal issues needs to be known. You can find plenty of resources to learn about the music industry. Reading books or articles or taking an online course is an excellent place to start.
Full degree programs are also available to students interested in working in the music industry. One such program is the online Master of Business Administration in Music Business from Southern New Hampshire University. The program is offered in conjunction with the Berklee College of Music and was the first Music Business MBA in the country. Courses cover topics in music business structure and strategies, music marketing, music industry finance, and music business leadership and ethics.
Learn to How to Teach Music
If you’re interested in working as a music teacher, you’ll need to learn how to teach others to play an instrument. Becoming a teacher involves learning about different teaching methods and finding the best way to communicate with your students.
There are several resources for learning how to teach music. Reading books or articles or taking an online course is an excellent place to start. Some instructors, for example, high school music teachers, work in formal education programs. In contrast, others operate privately and teach both new and seasoned musicians.
Other majors that can be helpful include business, marketing, and communication. These majors can give you the skills you need to succeed in the music industry.
One example of an online program for individuals interested in teaching music is the Master of Music Education from Lindenwood University. This degree enables certified, practicing K-12 educators to expand their knowledge of the field and improve their musicianship and leadership skills. Students take courses that cover research, music education, music, and teaching.
What is the Music Career Outlook?
The job market for music majors is competitive. However, many opportunities are available for those willing to work hard and have the talent and ability to succeed. Musicians and singers will have 11% more jobs from 2020 to 2030, at least twice as fast as the national average.
Approximately 20,800 positions for musicians and vocalists will be available throughout the decade. Several jobs will result from the need to replace workers who change occupations or leave the workforce, such as retiring. The best way to increase your success is to get involved in the music industry while still in school. Early experience will allow you to network and help you get your foot in the door after graduation.
Much of the anticipated employment is due to COVID-19, which began in 2020 and will peak in the decade. Music lovers will continue to have a wide range of options for listening to and viewing live events, leading to higher demand for musicians and performers. Musicians and singers may also profit by licensing their work for advertising or other commercial purposes, resulting in greater exposure and revenue possibilities.
The 5 Best Entry Level Music Industry Careers
From the fifteen jobs we’ve researched, these are the five best entry-level positions in the music industry.
1. High School Music Teacher
Salary: $83,000 per year
Education: Bachelor’s
Projected Growth: 12% (Faster than average)
Training or Experience: None
Secondary school music teachers typically teach students in grades 6-12. These teachers usually have a bachelor’s degree in music education and are certified to teach music in their state.
High school and middle school music teachers help their students develop their musical skills and knowledge. They also help them learn how to apply these skills to other areas of their lives. These teachers typically work in public and private schools. They may also work in community organizations or churches.
High school music teachers typically work during the school day. They may also teach classes before or after school. However, they may also need to attend meetings or conferences. They may also need to participate in professional development activities.
2. Public Relations Specialists
Salary: $62,800
Education: Bachelor’s
Projected Growth: 11% (faster than average)
Training or Experience: None
Finally, there are public relations specialists. Public relations is the art of managing conveyed information about an organization, product, service, or individual to the public. PR is a broad field encompassing different specialties. Still, all public relations specialists share one common goal: to maintain and enhance the reputation of their clients.
In the music industry, public relations specialists might work for a record label and be responsible for getting positive press coverage for their artists. Public relations specialists need to understand the needs and concerns of their clients and then craft a message that will appeal to the desired audience.
PR specialists also need to have strong writing skills. They often have to prepare press releases, write speeches, and handle other forms of written communication.
3. Event Planners
Salary: $49,470 per year
Education: Bachelor’s
Projected Growth: 18% (Much faster than average)
Training or Experience: On-the-job training
When it comes to music industry jobs, there are few more important than event planners. After all, without events, there would be no live music! If you’re good with people and have an eye for detail, a career in event planning could be perfect.
The only requirement is that event planners need at least a bachelor’s degree. But if you’re willing to put in the work, the rewards can be significant. Event planners earn a median salary of $49,470 per year. The job outlook is solid, with 18% growth projected over the next ten years.
4. Broadcast, Sound, & Video Technicians
Salary: $49,050 per year
Education: Associate’s
Projected Growth: 21% (Much faster than average)
Training or Experience: On-the-job training
As content consumption on digital platforms grows, the demand for technicians who can create and maintain this content will continue to grow.
Jobs will be available in various settings, including television and radio studios, production companies, post-production facilities, corporate communication departments, and educational institutions. Technicians who can work with various audio and video equipment and have strong computer skills will have the best job prospects.
Those interested in working as broadcast or sound engineers should consider completing an internship while in school to gain experience in the field. Many technicians start their careers as assistants and work up to higher-level positions. Some technicians may eventually become self-employed.
5. Announcers & DJs
Salary: $45,810 per year
Education: Bachelor’s
Projected Growth: 15% (Faster than average)
Training or Experience: On-the-job training
Announcers and DJs typically need a bachelor’s degree in communications, broadcasting, journalism, or a related field. Employers also value previous experience in on-the-job training or internships. In some cases, Announcers and DJs may be able to find entry-level positions with only a high school diploma.
Announcers and DJs typically work in studios. They control audio equipment and select music to play over the airwaves or on the internet. They may also conduct interviews, give weather reports, or provide sports commentary.
Announcers and DJs often work long hours, including evenings and weekends. Some jobs may require travel.
Why Consider Entry-Level Music Career?
While these professions may not be the most glamorous, they offer several advantages for those starting in the music industry.
- First, entry-level jobs can give you a foot in the door at a company or organization.
- Second, these jobs can provide you with valuable experience and knowledge about the inner workings of the music industry.
- And finally, these jobs can help you make important contacts and connections that might prove invaluable later in your career.
If you’re starting in the music industry, consider pursuing one of these entry-level jobs. With hard work and a little luck, you might find yourself on the path to a successful career in the music business.
10 Highest Paying Music Industry Careers
Having covered some of the lower-paying music jobs, we’ll now look at the other end of the spectrum and explore some of the highest-paying music careers.
1. Game Audio Designers
Salary: $80,838 a year
Education: Bachelor’s
Projected growth: 9.3%
Training or Experience: Long-term on-the-job training
There are many different audio designers, each with specific skills and expertise. Game audio designers are responsible for creating and incorporating sounds and music into video games, from designing sound effects to composing original music.
Game audio design is a relatively new field, but it has already grown immensely in popularity. As video games become increasingly realistic and immersive, the audio design becomes more critical. Good game audio can make a massive difference in the overall gameplay experience.
Pursuing a career as a game audio designer means knowing the following:
- First and foremost, you’ll need to be creative and have a good ear for music.
- You should also be familiar with audio editing software and have a basic understanding of game development.
- Game audio design has no specific education requirement. Better paying gigs prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in audio engineering or a related field.
- Additionally, many designers start their careers as audio engineers or music producers before transitioning into game audio.
The job outlook for game audio designers is positive, with an expected growth rate of 9.3% over the next decade. However, job competition is becoming increasingly fierce as the demand for qualified designers grows.
Game audio designers typically work in studios or offices. They may work long hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet deadlines.
2. Music Producers & Directors
Salary: $79,000 per year
Education: Bachelor’s degree
Projected growth: 24% (Much faster than average)
Training or Experience: Less than five years of experience
Music producers and directors are responsible for creating and supervising music production. They may work in the recording industry, live performance, or film and television.
Suppose you’re interested in a career as a music producer or director. In that case, you’ll need to be creative and understand the music industry. Producers must work well under pressure and meet deadlines.
Training or experience in audio engineering, music composition, and music theory can be helpful. Most music producers and directors have a bachelor's degree in music or a related field.
Many also have several years of experience working in the music industry. If you’re interested in this career, you should consider pursuing a degree in music or a related field. You may also consider getting some training or experience in audio engineering, music composition, and music theory.
Most music producers and directors work in studios or office settings. They may also travel to live performances or other locations. They typically work full time, although they may need to work long hours to meet deadlines.
Overall, the job outlook for music producers and directors is good. The demand for their services is growing faster than average over the next decade. Those with experience in audio engineering, music composition, and music theory should have the best job prospects.
3. Agents & Business Managers
Salary: $78,410 per year
Education: Bachelor’s
Projected growth: 4%
Training or Experience: None
Artists or musicians often rely on agents or managers to help them book gigs, negotiate contracts, and get paid. Business managers usually have a business degree and some experience in accounting or finance. Many music programs offer courses in artist management.
The primary duties of agents and managers are as follows:
- Arranging appearances, tours, and performances
- Negotiating contracts
- Advocating on behalf of the artist or performer
- Marketing the artist or performer
- Managing finances and business affairs
- Working Conditions
While some agents and managers work with various clients in different fields, others choose to specialize in a particular type of artist or performance. For example, some agents only represent musicians, while others may only work with actors or comedians.
Competition for jobs will be intense because more people are interested in working in this field than the jobs available. Those with a bachelor’s degree and experience in accounting or finance will have the best job prospects.
4. Music Professor
Salary: $ 75,940 per year
Education: Master’s or Doctorate
Projected growth: 12% (Faster than average)
Training or Experience: Some experience may be necessary
Music professors typically teach at the college level. They may also teach at community colleges or universities. Most music professors have a master's degree or doctorate in music. Music professors teach their students about music theory, history, and composition. They also help their students develop their musical skills and knowledge.
Some music instructors may teach during the school day. They may also give classes at various times, including before or after school. However, they may also need to attend meetings or conferences. They may also need to participate in professional development activities.
5. Sound Engineering Technicians
Salary: $ 60,500 per year
Education: Associate’s
Projected growth: 21% (Much faster than average)
Training or Experience: None
Another lucrative career in the music industry is that of a sound engineering technician. These professionals work with audio equipment to ensure that concerts, events, and recordings are of the highest quality possible.
The average income for sound engineering technicians is $60,500 per year, and the projected job growth is 21%. Although some formal education is helpful, it is not required, and most training is on the job. Sound engineering could be the perfect career if you can’t contain your passion for music and audio equipment!
The working conditions for a sound engineer are excellent. They can work indoors and don’t have to do any heavy lifting. There are some hazards that they need to watch out for, such as loud noises, which can cause hearing loss over time. They must also be aware of potential electrical hazards when working with equipment. Overall, the working conditions for sound engineers are excellent.
6. Film & Video Editors and Camera Operators
Salary: $60,360 per year
Education: Bachelor’s
Projected growth: 29% (Much faster than average)
Training or Experience: Pre-production experience
Film and video editors and camera operators hold one of the essential roles in filmmaking. They are responsible for creating the images audiences see on the big screen or on their home televisions.
These professionals use sophisticated editing software to combine footage from different takes, select the best shots, and add visual effects. Camera operators capture images that directors and editors use to create movies and television shows. They work with various traditional film, video, and high-definition cameras. Many camera operators start their careers as assistants or trainees.
Film and video editors and camera operators have a good eye for detail and work well under pressure. They sit and stand for long periods on the job and practice manual dexterity to operate complex equipment.
These professionals typically work in studios or offices. They sometimes travel to location shoots, which can be anywhere. Although they are generally employed full-time, clients and organizations may call them to work long hours, including evenings and weekends.
7. Musicians & Singers
Salary: $30.49 per hour
Education: No formal educational credential
Projected growth: 11% (Faster than average)
Training or Experience: Long-term on-the-job training
Musicians and singers must develop their talents and hone their skills through practice and performance. Many successful musicians and singers have had years of training, starting in childhood. They take music lessons, practice for hours daily, and regularly perform to perfect their craft. Some musicians and singers also attend workshops and masterclasses to develop their skills further.
In addition to developing their musical skills, musicians and singers must be able to promote themselves and their work. They need to build a solid online presence and create a brand that will appeal to their target audience.
Musicians and singers also need to network and build relationships with industry professionals. Start developing your skills and talent if you’re serious about becoming a professional musician or singer. Take music lessons, practice regularly, and perform whenever you can.
Musicians often work long hours during rehearsals and performances. They may also travel frequently for gigs, which can be demanding and tiring. Many musicians are self-employed, so they must be able to manage their time well and schedule their work. They can choose the music they play, their gigs, and their work hours.
Being a musician or singer can be very rewarding, both creatively and personally. It’s one of the best ways to express yourself and connect with others.
8. Music Directors & Composers
Salary: $49,130 per year
Education: Bachelor’s degree
Projected growth: 6% (As fast as average)
Training or Experience: Less than five years
Music directors and composers are responsible for creating and conducting music. They often work with other musicians, singers, and dancers to create a performance. Directors typically have a bachelor’s degree in music. However, many composers do not have a formal education. They usually learn their craft through experience and training.
The average annual income for music directors is $49,130 per year. The projected job growth is as fast as the average at 6%.
Music directors and composers typically work in studios or offices. They sometimes travel to location shoots, which can be anywhere. Although they are generally employed full-time, clients and organizations may call them to work long hours, including evenings and weekends.
9. Musical Therapists
Salary: $47,940 per year
Education: Bachelor’s degree
Projected growth: 10% (As fast as average)
Training or Experience: None required
Musical therapists use music to improve their patients’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They work with individuals of all ages who have a wide range of conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, autism, depression, and stroke.
Musical therapists have a bachelor’s degree in music therapy. However, no formal education is required. They usually learn their craft through experience and training.
Musical therapists typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, or private practices. They sometimes travel to location shoots, which can be anywhere. Although they are generally employed full-time, clients and organizations may call them to work long hours, including evenings and weekends.
10. Dancers & Choreographers
Salary: $19.47 per hour
Education: Training or bachelor’s
Projected growth: 31% (Much faster than average)
Training or Experience: Long-term on-the-job training
Dancers and choreographers use their bodies to express ideas and emotions. They often work in theater, film, television, or nightclubs. Dancers need to be physically fit and have a good sense of rhythm. They must also be able to remember complex dance routines.
Choreographers create new dances and revise existing ones. They often work with dancers and other performers to teach them their routines.
These professionals often work long hours during rehearsals and performances. They may also travel frequently for gigs, which can be demanding and tiring. Many are self-employed, so they must be able to manage their time well and schedule their work.
Dancers and choreographers often have a great deal of control over their work. They can choose the music they dance to, their gigs, and their work hours. Being a dancer or choreographer can be very rewarding, both creatively and personally. It provides a way to express yourself and connect with others.
Key Takeaways About Music Careers
The music industry is a dynamic, exciting field. There are plenty of different jobs available, each with its own skills and requirements.
If your interests lie in a career in the music industry, it’s essential to do your research and choose a job that suits your interests and talents. There is a lot of job competition, making it crucial to have the proper education and training.
The job outlook for most music industry careers is positive, with above-average growth expected in many fields. However, competition is becoming increasingly fierce, so those with the right skills and experience will have the best job prospects.
Start Your Music Career Today!
Now that you know about the different careers in the music industry, it’s time to plan your next steps.
If you’re unsure where to start, consider pursuing an online degree in music or a related field. Online degrees can give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the music industry.
You may also want to consider interning at a music label, music production company, or another type of music organization. Internships provide first-hand experience in the industry and help you network with potential employers.
Whatever you decide to do, remember that the most important thing is to follow your passion. If you love music, there’s no reason you can’t have a successful career in the industry. Just be sure to put in the hard work and never give up on your dreams.