aaamusic | On 27, Apr 2021

Whenever someone mentions a career in music, the first image that crosses our mind is that of an open stage with a big audience cheering. However, when it comes to music, being a performer is not your only option! If you’re an avid music lover, you’ll be glad to know that there are so many career paths you can pursue – without having to make a living out of overcoming your stage fright. 

We couldn’t possibly round up all your options into this brief overview, but we’ve managed to compile some of the most popular and highest-paying jobs in the industry. Whether you’re currently pursuing a degree in music or contemplating the thought of joining the music path, here are some of your options.

Sound and Video Engineer

If you’re looking for a high-paying job, you certainly have to consider becoming a sound and video engineer; these guys are some of the highest-paid in the music industry. Sound and video engineers are the ones responsible for mapping sounds and voice effects for various niches, including video games and TV and film production. The median salary of a sound or video engineer ranges from $40,000 to $120,000+.

Recording Engineer

A recording (or audio) engineer is the one responsible for capturing and manipulating the sound to fit the desired purpose. They’ll be expected to deal with both digital and analog audio and take charge of both the technical and artistic aspects of the records. The recording engineers work closely with other producers, editors, composers, and arrangers to produce records for TV and concert production agencies. Their median salary can range from $25,000 to $150,000.

Music Producer

If you’re looking for a job in which you can utilize both creative and business skills, you’ll want to consider becoming a music producer. These guys are the jacks-of-all-trade; they’re responsible for creating the desired environment in which artists can thrive. Moreover, music producers need to have impeccable communication skills to be able to direct the artists, session musicians, bands, and studio engineers so that they can produce the sound they’re after. A music producer can be expected to make a median salary starting from $25,000 and up to $1,000,000 or more.

DJ Artist

If you’re more of an upbeat person who just loves to be the heart of the party, then you should certainly try becoming a DJ artist. You can use this DJ help guide to learn how to become a technical virtuoso who can use their sharpened skills to manipulate music and entertain crowds. You’ll be able to work with local gigs or record your own mixes and promote your work online. The median salary for DJ artists is around $58,907.

Music Teacher

Teaching music is another way to pursue your passion for music while feeling the reward of sharing your passion with future generations of musicians. You can become a school music teacher and teach the fundamentals of music to young students, or you can choose to become a college professor and teach advanced music courses. You can also become a private music tutor and choose your target age segment. The salary will mainly depend on your position, certifications, and institute.

Music Journalist

Becoming a music journalist is a great way to combine your passion for both music and writing. Music journalists are tasked with covering concerts, reviewing new albums, and profiling artists, after which their work is featured in music magazines and/or billboards. Their median salary is around $50,011.

Music Therapist

As someone who wants to pursue music for a living, you certainly know how therapeutic music can be. Turns out, the healing properties of music can be scientifically proven. As a music therapist, you’ll be able to use music therapy to improve the mental and emotional states of your clients. To become a music therapist, you’ll have to learn how to apply various music therapy techniques according to your patients and the settings, after which you can earn your certificate. You’ll find various openings in healthcare settings like private institutes, mental health agencies, nurse care centers, rehab centers, schools, and others. You can expect a median salary of $57,094.

Who said that you have to be a performer to pursue a career in music? If you love music but you’re not exactly a big fan of the stage, there are still a myriad of ways you can pursue your passion. At the end of the day, it all comes down to your specific skills and interests. After that, you’ll be able to find the right job in which you can make good use of your talent.