Music Director / Composer
Conduct, direct, plan, and lead instrumental or vocal performances by musical artists or groups, such as orchestras, bands, choirs, and glee clubs; or create original works of music.
Annual openings
102
BLS median wage
$88,460
Typical education
No education beyond what is needed for entry-level Creative Industries jobs is expected.
10-year growth
+7%
Career requirements
What does this career require?
The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.
Typical education
No education beyond what is needed for entry-level Creative Industries jobs is expected.
Credential requirement
No certification is required or expected for this job.
Work experience
A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. Leadership experience is also highly valued.
Work-based learning
No information available
Is this work a fit?
What the work actually feels like
How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.
Work style
- With kids/peopleOccasionally
- On a computerOccasionally
- Outdoors / on-siteOccasionally
- With your handsOccasionally
Interests it draws on
- Arts, Design, and Entertainment
- Music and Performance
Automation exposure
Low exposure
Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.
A typical day
- Determine voices, instruments, harmonic structures, rhythms, tempos, and tone balances required to achieve the effects desired in a musical composition.
- Write musical scores for orchestras, bands, choral groups, or individual instrumentalists or vocalists, using knowledge of music theory and of instrumental and vocal capabilities.
- Write music for commercial mediums, including advertising jingles or film soundtracks.
- Rewrite original musical scores in different musical styles by changing rhythms, harmonies, or tempos.
- Study films or scripts to determine how musical scores can be used to create desired effects or moods.
- Create original musical forms, or write within circumscribed musical forms such as sonatas, symphonies, or operas.