Musician
What does a Musician do?
Musicians play, arrange, conduct, and compose musical compositions. Most Musicians specialize in either popular or classical music, and are either solo artists or a member of a musical group. Composers create and write compositions expressing ideas or feelings in musical form. Performers are often also Composers, or Lyricists who write the words to songs and work closely with the Composer. In addition to performing many Musicians teach instrumental music.
Specialties: Arrangers, Composers, Conductors, Copyists, Lyricists, Music Graphers, Music Notesetters, Orchestrators, Street Musicians.
Salary and Employment Outlook:
Typical Employers:
Musicians play in opera, ballet, theater and symphony orchestras, in night clubs and restaurants. They work for television and radio stations and motion picture studios. Some teach or coach in educational institutions and some self-employed musicians own their own studios.
Preparation:
Training should begin as early as possible. Private study is important. You should master at least one instrument. Music programs are offered by California colleges and universities, private colleges, conservatories and community colleges. You can also get training, education, and experience in the military. Performance ability is the basis for securing employment. The majority of performing jobs are filled informally. In some cases, employers hire the group and the leader hires the Musicians. For regular positions, employers want performers whose work they know or a Musician who has been recommended by someone whose judgment they trust. College Preparatory is needed for those who want to teach.
Educational Program(s):
Related Programs: Dance, Dramatic Arts
DVC Certificate Program in
Music Industry Studies:
Web Resources:
National Association of Schools of Music
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