Music Directors and Composer

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  Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media Occupations

Music Directors and Composer

Also Called: Arranger, Choir Director, Composer, Conductor, Music Composer, Music Director, Music Producer, Orchestra Director, Songwriter, Arranger, Choir Director, Composer, Conductor, Music Composer, Music Director, Music Producer, Orchestra Director, Songwriter

What they do

Conduct, direct, plan, and lead instrumental or vocal performances by musical artists or groups, such as orchestras, bands, choirs, and glee clubs; or create original works of music.

$34,240
Starting Salary (2023)
$62,590
Median Salary (2023)
1.1%
Projected Job Growth
10,770
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Apply elements of music theory to create musical and tonal structures, including harmonies and melodies.
Determine voices, instruments, harmonic structures, rhythms, tempos, and tone balances required to achieve the effects desired in a musical composition.
Experiment with different sounds, and types and pieces of music, using synthesizers and computers as necessary to test and evaluate ideas.
Fill in details of orchestral sketches, such as adding vocal parts to scores.
Transcribe ideas for musical compositions into musical notation, using instruments, pen and paper, or computers.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Artistic
Conceptual, Creative Work
Enterprising
Business based Work
Social
Working with people

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Integrity
Dependability
Attention to Detail
Initiative
Independence
Persistence

What key skills are needed for this job?

Active Listening
Speaking
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Judgment and Decision Making
Coordination

Expected Knowledge

Fine Arts
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Common Activities

Thinking Creatively
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

More Info

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