So you're thinking about a career in music?
Whether your interests lie in music education, performance, industry, or any number of other venues, the field of music provides countless opportunities for finding a fulfilling and rewarding career. On these pages are a collection of resources designed to help students, parents, teachers, and all those curious, in discovering the many possibilities. You may want to begin by reading our Glossary of Careers for complete descriptions of numerous music career options. Our "Careers in Music" online brochure also gives insight into specifics for 16 career fields, such as the recommended training, skills, personal qualifications, and average salaries. As you continue to explore the other pages, the information and resources you will find delve deeper into performing and teaching careers, the music industry, the study of music, continuing education, teacher certification, and much more.
The links below provide a further look into music careers in general, after which we hope you will visit the other areas of "Careers in Music". Then, as you ask yourself "Should I study music?" take a moment to read "What it Takes To Be a Music Major". These links and more found on our web site will help you in making the decision on going into the music field.
Note: Web sites linked from this site are listed for information purposes only. Their inclusion does not constitute endorsement of their content by MENC: The National Association for Music Education.
Berklee College of Music - Concise descriptions of music related careers of all kinds.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - The "Occupational Outlook Handbook" provides helpful information about several music careers, including salary and employment outlook. Under "Occupations", click on "Occupational Outlook Handbook", and look under M for music careers.
These publications and others found on Amazon.com.
MENC Publication "Exploring Careers in Music, 2nd Edition" An in-depth guide to music careers, featuring a section on technology, a directory of resources, and contributions from current professionals in the music field.
"Opportunities in Music Careers, Revised Edition" By Robert Gerardi, with Foreword by Dr. Billy Taylor; VGM Career Books, The McGraw-Hill Companies; ISBN 0071387161 (hardcover), ISBN 007138717X (paperback)
"Great Jobs for Music Majors" By Jan Goldberg; The McGraw-Hill Company; 2nd edition (2004) ISBN: 0071411607 (paperback)