1. A Day in the Life as A Musician
by Abbey Harpel
2. Introduction to Career
A musicians life revolves around practicing, rehearsing, performing, and
recording.
Musicians perform in front of audiences of anywhere from 10 people to tens of
thousands. Musicians perform solo or as a member of a band or orchestra.
3. Working Conditions
Most musicians are self-employed and are hired by orchestras and bands, recording
studios, TV and film production, theatres, nightclubs, etc.
Evening and weekend work is common as well as long hours. Many musicians go on tour
and travel for long periods of time.
4. Training & Qualifications
Associates Of Arts in Music
An associate’s degree program in music prepares students to work as musicians with groups choirs,
or music production companies. Students learn to apply musical theories to all types of music.
Typical courses include:
* Music theory
* Music composition and production
* Ear Training
* Instrumental introduction
* Music Theory
Bachelor of Arts in Music
A bachelor’s degree program in music provides advanced coursework in musical theory,
composition, production and conducting. Bachelor’s program may include:
*Advanced musical composition
* Classical music training
*Applied vocal training
*Music literature
5. Earnings
The income of a Musician varies depending on what you do for a living as a
musician. Examples of jobs and the income associated to them are broken
down below:
● Private Lesson Teachers can earn up to $41,600 a year
● Original music in a band or individually around $14,400 a year
● Cover Bands earn $52,000 a year
● Symphony Orchestra New York Philharmonic: $134,940 Kansas City
Symphony: $45,822 Louisville Orchestra: $34,225 San Francisco
Opera: $78,445
● Musical Theater $22,500 a year
● Professionally signed musicians with Record Labels can earn millions
of dollars depending on concert and record sales.
6. Summary
After doing the research and understanding all the work to be
a musician I don’t think this is the career for me. I love to
listen to music and sing but performing live and learning how
to play instruments does not really appeal to me now.
