How a Music Major Prepares You for the Job Market
A music major will help you build upon your already established musical talents, and teach you about other related topics, such as instruments, music theory and music history. Some music majors include a general music education under a liberal arts curriculum, while other music degrees are more specialized. No matter the area of concentration, all music majors enhance their musical skills, increase their understanding of music history, production and business, as well as increase their appreciation for music. Music majors are equipped with a broad understanding of the influence and cultural impact music has on the world. One of the great things about music majors is their amount of passion and willingness to learn. They chose to major in music, their passion, and it is apparent in the work they do and the music they play. From music therapy, to record production and music education, music majors can teach others through their knowledge, understanding and passion for music.
Best Career Paths for Music Majors
The best career paths for music majors depends on the area in which they want to work. Whether they pick music education, composition or music industry business, music majors can choose from a wide variety of rewarding career paths.
- Musicians. Most music majors strive to become musicians. Since the majority of music majors already play an instrument or sing, they typically want to perform on a professional level. This popular career path is also a very competitive one. Talent and patience are tested in the music industry, as musicians often face rejection and strong criticism. Musicians have to stand out from their competition and those who play several instruments and can perform different musical styles will have the best job opportunities, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Musicians can be solo artists or play as a group in nightclubs, music halls and theaters. Musician jobs require a great deal of dedication, practice and persistence to market yourself and your talents. According to BLS, musicians made median hourly wages of $21.24 an hour in May 2008.
- Music Teacher. Another popular career for music majors is to be a music teacher. This career allows passionate music majors to share their love for music by teaching others. Music majors have a comprehensive music education that translates to students of all ages. From band, music appreciation to music history, there are various subjects to teach at virtually any school level. Music teachers can work at public schools, private schools, performing arts schools and colleges or universities. Primary and secondary music teachers' salaries vary, depending on the grade level, institution and school district. Music teachers at postsecondary institutions made an annual mean wage $49,260 or more, in May 2008. Music teachers at junior colleges made $66,160; college, university and professional school music teachers made $65,960, and performing arts company teachers made $64,230.
How to Market Your Music Degree
When it comes to marketing your music degree, your musical skills will speak loudly. However, you can also promote your well-rounded music education. When interviewing, you should talk about any areas of music you specialized in, your most valued courses, or a minor that is applicable to the work you'd like to do. If you are promoting your musical performance skills, then show recordings or videos of you performing, or play an instrument or sing in person to demonstrate your full potential.
