The music industry has undergone some extreme changes over the last couple of decades. Consumers no longer purchase music at nearly the same levels as they once did, but that doesn’t mean demand for music has in any way decreased. In fact, changes in the industry have created a range of new careers. Studying a music-related major like audio engineering, music production, or music business could open up these opportunities for you.
1. Sound Engineer
Some of the best-paying jobs in the music industry go to sound engineers. Various jobs fall into this category, including for mapping sound effects for video games, composing scores for movies, and recording sound for TV productions.
2. Music Agent
A career that often comes to mind when talking about the music business is a music agent. You’ll need a good understanding of marketing, project management, and public relations, such as for managing social media, organizing interviews and events, and writing press releases for your clients.
You can represent musicians and bands by finding a job at a music marketing firm or by setting up your own agency.
3. Conductor
Becoming a musician is not the only way to work in performance: you could also conduct an orchestra or choir. You’ll be responsible for choosing the music and creating arrangements suitable for your musicians or singers. You’ll then need to rehearse with your group and attend performances. You may like to start out leading a school band, youth orchestra, or choir. With experience, options may open up in TV and radio or with a performance company.
4. DJ
Successful DJs are outgoing entertainers who know how to create a beat. This path tends to lead to a career as a freelancer, but it’s not difficult to receive referrals if people love your music. You may even be able to land regular work at the same bars or clubs.
5. Recording Engineer
If you’d prefer to work behind the scenes, a career as a recording engineer could be for you. This involves recording songs and then mixing and mastering the tracks. As well as jobs with composers, arrangers, and producers, you may work with a film sound editor or concert production company.
6. Music Journalist
A great way to attend a performance without being in the spotlight yourself is to become a music journalist. You may need to start out as a freelancer until you are able to land a position with a music magazine or another publication. As well as attending and covering concerts, you’ll likely write about new releases, artist profiles, and news items related to the music industry.
7. Songwriter
Behind every great song is a songwriter. If you pursue this career, you’ll be responsible for writing some musical elements as well as lyrics. This is one of the more difficult areas of the music industry to get into. It helps to have some interesting stories to tell along with a knack for writing lyrics that resonate with your audience.
8. Musical Therapist
Music can be healing, especially for patients with mental health conditions but also for those with physical pain. After learning how to use music for therapy, you’ll be able to provide support for people at hospitals, clinics, rehab centres, and assisted living facilities.
9. Music Teacher
As a music teacher, you can be self-employed or work at a school or academy. You can teach one or several instruments or musical skills in general. Whatever you choose, this is sure to be a rewarding career.
Since jobs in the music industry can be competitive, you’ll need to study hard to gain an edge over other graduates. This means searching for suitable student rentals. St. Catharines music students can find a home at Foundry Lofts. As well as being able to study at your desk in a fully-furnished suite, you can head to our onsite quiet study zone whenever you like. Plus, you’ll be able to meet students attending other colleges in places like the fire-side lounge, fitness centre, and game room. Apply now to secure your spot.