Musician and Composer Occupation PowerPoint
What they do… They use musical instruments to compose and perform songs. They write music and lyrics for performing artists, bands, movies, radio jingles, and TV commercials. They use computers and synthesizers to arrange and orchestrate music. They evaluate and edit pieces of music using computer software programs.
Knowledge… They must have knowledge of music theory and lyric development. They need knowledge of musical instruments and electronic equipment. They need knowledge of musical software programs. They need knowledge of media production and communication techniques to inform and entertain.
Skills… Musicians and composers need proficiency with musical instruments. They need expertise with electrical equipment, such as synthesizers, amplifiers, and sound systems. They need to be able to use computers and music- writing software.
Tools they use… Musical instruments Sound systems Recording and transmitting equipment Computers and software with music-writing capabilities.
Working conditions… Musicians and composers work long hours rehearsing and performing, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Musicians and composers often have to travel to perform. Although musicians and composers usually work indoors, some perform outdoors at concerts and festivals.
Training… Long-term on-the-job-training and rehearsing is the way many people become musicians. Professional positions for musicians and composers usually require at least a bachelor’s degree in a field of music. A degree in music education qualifies graduates to teach music in the public elementary or secondary schools.
Who they work for… Television and radio studios Movie production companies Large churches Theaters Public and private schools
Income… Average income for musicians and composers is approximately $42,000 per year. Pay is higher in large cities, such as New York and Los Angeles, where entertainment and recording activities are concentrated. Musicians and composers held about 264,000 jobs in 2006.