degree in music opens up a variety of career opportunities, not all of which may be apparent to you.

Music Degree

Careers in Music

Most musicians who continue on in a field after graduation report a very high job satisfaction. While it is true that most do not earn as much money as their counterparts in some other fields, it is not difficult to earn enough money to support oneself or one's family, and many musicians end up with a very comfortable standard of living. Most musicians find that the happiness and satisfaction they receive from their careers more than make up for the smaller salaries.

Teaching

Most music school graduates who choose to pursue music as a career go into education of some form. A musician can teach privately in elementary, junior high, middle and high schools, in community music schools or colleges. Each requires a different minimum education. For example, a private studio teacher need not even have a degree in music, although it might add to his or her prestige and help to attract students.

School teachers generally require a bachelor's degree and certification in a particular state. College music teachers generally need a graduate-level degree or the equivalent in performing experience. Teaching can be a very rewarding field and a source of steady income and security. Musicians may find a variety of fields of interest, ranging from instrumental or vocal instruction to composition and music theory or music history, in which to teach.

Performance

Very few musicians make careers exclusively as performers. Most combine careers in teaching performance. While no degree is necessary to become a performer, most musicians find that the discipline and analytical processes acquired through systematic performance study in a degree program contribute significantly to their eventual success. Perhaps one of the best reasons for a performer to attend college is to participate in a quantity and quality of performance opportunities, which can rarely be matched in the professional world.

Composition

Most musicians combine composition with performance or teaching. Composition gives the musician a chance to explore his or her art. Composers may specialize in any of several styles - from film music to art songs, commercial jingles to symphonies and operas. Different styles have differing potentials for income. Commercial composers and arrangers tend to have the highest potential for income, but often at the expense of job security.

Arts Administration

A background in at least one of the fine arts is extremely beneficial for administrators in arts-related enterprises. Recognizing the need for professionals in this field, some schools now offer specialized degrees in arts administration. Many graduates of arts administration programs find employment with not-for-profit organizations, professional performing ensembles or college administrations.

Many people believe that it is difficult to achieve success in music. Most successful musicians, however, maintain that the hard work and effort they put into their careers is worth every moment of the enjoyment and enrichment they receive from their profession.

Music Business

Graduates of programs in music business or music industry often find a variety of career paths to follow. Some even find that administrative positions are a good way to make the necessary connections to start a performing career. While many business graduates work in the music industry, a substantial number use their business training to work for a corporation or to seek law, business or other professional degrees. The entrepreneurial and human relations skills developed in music business programs can be invaluable assets for successful career development and management.

Careers Outside of Music

A music degree does not limit one to pursuing a career in music. The study of music teaches skills that are valued by many employers. From software development companies to business consulting firms to medical and law schools, a music education is recognized as a high quality education that produces disciplined workers with thoughtful and analytical minds. The skills you learn in music school transfer easily to a wide range of employment and allow you to present your skills and talents more effectively in many work environments.