Music Directors and Composers
Additional Information
Duties
The following is a typical list of what music directors do:
- Compose or arrange music for live performance or recording purposes.
- Review and understand musical notation to prepare for performances.
- Prepare for performances and recordings by overseeing rehearsals.
- Make a list of potential special guests and soloists.
- Take part in auditions for new artists or assist section leaders with them.
- Improve their directing skills by rehearsing at home.
- Attend fundraising events and meet possible contributors.
The conductors of orchestras, choirs, and other musical ensembles are known as conductors. They guarantee that the musicians perform together as a single ensemble, with the melody, timing, rhythm, and loudness all in sync. They also provide sound and stylistic criticism to musicians and section leaders.
Church choirs, youth orchestras, and high school and college bands, choruses, and orchestras are just a few of the musical ensembles that music directors deal with. Orchestral accompaniment for dance and opera companies is something that some musicians do.
Composers commonly engage in the following activities:
- Compose music for orchestras, bands, and other musical ensembles.
- Compose new music by arranging existing music.
- Work with a lyricist to write lyrics for a piece of music.
- Inquire about commissioning a piece of music with orchestras, musical ensembles, and others.
- Inspiration may be found by immersing yourself in a wide range of musical genres.
- Help musicians record their songs by working together with them.
For a wide range of musical groups and audiences, composers develop their own music. Some specialize on a certain kind of music, such as jazz or classical. For musicals, operas, and other theatrical works, they may also write.
Some composers specialize in film or television compositions, while others specialize in commercial jingles. A large number of composers specialize on writing songs for popular music fans.
Composers may employ instruments to aid in the creative process. The majority of people utilize software that allows them to listen to a composition without musicians.
Children and adults receive individual music instruction from some music directors and composers. Others work in elementary, middle, or high schools to teach music to students. See the teacher profiles for kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high school instructors for additional information.
Education
Composer and conductor positions frequently necessitate a master's or doctoral degree in music theory or composition.
Either through the submission of recordings of their work or the appearance in person at an audition, students might be eligible for postsecondary music education programs. Additionally, students learn how to compose music, and how to lead others in a band or choir. There is information regarding degree programs available from the National Association of Schools of Music.
Choir directors frequently need at least a bachelor's degree. A bachelor's degree in the performing arts or education is very common. For people who work in public schools, a teaching license or certification may be necessary. For more information on the teachers, look at their individual profiles.
You don't need any special training in order to write popular music. Typically, these composers find work by submitting a recording of their music to record labels, film production companies, and bands. It is possible for musicians to promote themselves online using their own websites, social media, or online video or audio of their work.
Characteristics essential to success
Discipline. Only a small percentage of music directors and composers can acquire work because of their talents. Every day, they must practice and improve their abilities.
Being able to communicate effectively with others. To produce music, directors and composers must work with agencies, musicians, and recording studio staff. Be kind, considerate, and open to both praise and criticism, and enjoy spending time with others as a music director or composer.
Leadership. It is the responsibility of music directors and composers to provide direction for performing artists, including both instrumentalists and vocalists, by developing musical arrangements and providing technical assistance.
Artistic prowess. For a music director or composer, musical ability is a must.
Perseverance. In order for music directors and composers to keep submitting their work despite rejection, they must have a lot of tenacity and perseverance. It may also be tedious to evaluate auditions because selecting the best musicians may necessitate a variety of tests.
Self-promotional skills It is imperative that music directors and composers leverage local communities, word-of-mouth, and social media to market their concerts. Having good self-promotional skills will help you build a following and open doors in your future job.
Training
Composers and music directors often get their start in the business by performing in bands or as solo artists. Students who are interested in pursuing careers as composers or conductors of classical music might do so by enrolling in music camps or fellowships. Participants can attend seminars, receive training, and even perform as part of these programs.
Pay
In May 2020, the average yearly salary for music directors and composers was $52,250. When half of an occupation's workforce earns more than the median wage, the wage is considered to be the "median wage." The lowest tenth made less than $23,890, while the top tenth made more than $124,390 an annum.
Job Projections
There will be a 6 percent increase in the number of music directors and composers employed in the United States between 2020 and 2030.