There are several possibilities for those interested in a career in music, that doesn’t naturally have to do with actually being a recording artist or musician. Here we will discuss the several options available for those wanting to try their hand at music careers and see if we can’t help you find your niche.
Who doesn’t love music? Music itself can be complex or simplistic, but the process of how music is created and developed is anything but simple. Music plays a big part in someone’s life. It has the ability to alter a mood, for better or worse. For those that have that musical itch and want to learn how to become a part of the big picture, we’ll find out more about the creative process involved as well as the other positions that help music evolve to what it is today.
Find out About the Business Aspect of Music
Do you have a talent for writing music? The job of the copyist is to transcribe music into scores, by using computer software called score writers. A music copyist must have a high understanding of music theory and music notation. The music copyist is typically employed by publishing companies.
Read more in the book “100 Careers in the Music Business“
If you’re interested in how music is mixed and edited a career in audio engineering might be right for you. Audio engineers work as either freelance engineers or are employed by recording studios, TV studios or even movie production companies. For one of these music careers you’ll need a degree in audio engineering. These can be obtained by enrolling in an audio engineer program at a vocational school or college. The audio engineer will mix, edit, add instruments to tracks all with the help of music recording software that will take a degree to truly understanding the workings of and learn its full potential.
A lawyer can work as an entertainment lawyer, working in the entertainment industry and handling legal issues that involve their clients who are musicians, actors and writers.
Lyricists write song lyrics and doesn’t require and formal training, but keep in mind this field is very competitive.
Music merchants sell musical supplies and instruments. This field requires business and people skills in addition to knowledge of music and musical equipment. A merchant can also specialize in musical instrument repair.
Music reviewers critique musicians on their performances and composition. This is done by the musical reviewer going to concerts to view the musical act they intend to review. A reviewer can work on a freelance basis or can be part of a music magazine or website.
A music publisher works by printing musical works, such as sheet music and musical scores. A music publisher will typically work for a large publishing house.
Finding the Right Music Career
Now that you know more about the business aspect of music, you now know that it takes more than the musicians to keep the music industry going. These careers are typically fast-paced and exciting. Working as a part of the music industry, you’re not likely to keep the regular nine to five hours of your typical job. But this also makes your job more exciting in an unpredictable way.
10 Music Industry Careers
Artist Manager: The guiding light for a musician’s career, artist managers oversee everything from booking tours and securing record deals to building brand awareness and negotiating contracts.
Tour Manager: The logistical mastermind behind a successful tour, tour managers handle crew coordination, venue bookings, travel arrangements, and ensuring the smooth running of live performances.
A&R (Artist & Repertoire) Representative: The talent scouts of the music industry, A&R reps identify and develop promising new artists, connecting them with record labels and shaping the musical direction of the label’s roster.
Booking Agent: The matchmaker between artists and venues, booking agents secure performance opportunities for musicians, negotiating contracts and ensuring artists play shows that align with their career goals.
Music Lawyer: The legal eagles of the music world, music lawyers draft and negotiate contracts, protect intellectual property rights (like copyrights), and ensure artists and industry professionals are legally covered in their endeavors.
Music Publicist: The spin doctors of the music business, music publicists craft and implement strategies to generate positive media coverage for artists and labels, managing their public image and securing press opportunities.
Marketing & Promotions Manager: The strategists behind building an artist’s fanbase, marketing and promotions managers develop campaigns to promote music releases, build online presence, and connect artists with their target audience.
Licensing Manager: The dealmakers for music usage, licensing managers negotiate deals for using an artist’s music in commercials, films, video games, or other media, generating additional revenue streams.
Digital Media Manager: The navigators of the online music world, digital media managers oversee an artist’s online presence, managing social media accounts, developing website content, and optimizing online marketing strategies.
Music Business Analyst: The data whizzes of the industry, music business analysts use data and market research to identify trends, analyze sales figures, and provide insights to inform strategic decision-making for labels, artists, and other music industry professionals.
Audio Engineers
FOH Engineer Garry Brown (Phish, Trey Anastasio Band, Oysterhead)
Behind the Live Sound of Coldplay with Daniel Green
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Dave Rat FOH Engineer