Careers in Music

Formal Education

Pursue a degree in music—whether it's a major, minor, or a two-year degree—from a conservatory, college, university, or through a professional training program. Degree options include music teaching, performance, arranging, composition, music business, pro audio, and technology.

Internships

Work as an intern at a music company or organization while pursuing higher education. Internships provide valuable insights into a company's products, culture, and administrative processes. They offer an opportunity to network with professionals at various stages of their careers and to explore potential career paths.

Apprenticeships

Seek an apprenticeship in the music industry, particularly for roles that require specialized technical skills such as instrument building, stagecraft, or event support. Apprenticeships typically offer paid, on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced professionals. 

Private Lessons/Self-Study

Take private lessons with a skilled music teacher. This pathway provides personalized instruction tailored to specific needs. New and evolving technologies provide a multitude of self-study options. Continuous learning and self-improvement are key themes for every music career.

Entrepreneurship

Develop entrepreneurial skills to create your own opportunities within the music industry. Consider starting a music teaching business, developing a product or service, establishing a record label, or organizing concerts. Harnessing your creative energy to innovate and explore new avenues for making music can drive these endeavors forward.

Networking

Attend events like The NAMM Show and state music conferences to meet industry professionals and fellow musicians, and explore job prospects. Networking is vital in the music industry for developing ideas, enhancing skills, and expanding career opportunities.

For Students

Share your career interests and aspirations with parents, teachers, and school counselors using the brochure as a reference. Talk to people who currently work in the music industry at events like educator conferences or The NAMM Show to meet professionals in occupations you're interested in.

For Parents and Guardians

Talk to your high schooler about future career goals and how they align with opportunities in the music industry. Use the resources offered to start a conversation with educators and school counselors about establishing the pathways and skills needed for a career in music.

For Music Teachers and Educators

Review the Consider a Career in Music brochure with students, parents, and school counselors. Share experiences in pursuing a career in music and, where possible, serve as a resource for students considering a profession in music and the creative sector.

For School Counselors

Provide brochures and discuss the options for a life in music with your students and their parents. Collaborate with music education and industry professionals in your district, school or community, and explore the many career opportunities that exist.

For Employers & NAMM Members

Share the brochures with educators and school counselors in your area. Offer the brochures at your point of sale, in your lesson studios, or at your back-to-school rental presentations. Share your own career story with students interested in a life in music.

Know the Landscape

Stay informed with regular updates on Federal and State workforce development policies and programs. Workforce development agencies work to build and fortify the training-to-career pipeline.

Visit NAMM.org to review policy issues that impact the music industry.