What Can You do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Music?

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bachelors in music A bachelor’s degree in music equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to use instruments and voice to make music. There are a lot of things you can do with your degree in music. Here is an overview of the careers you could pursue.

Music Therapist

Music therapists apply their knowledge and skills in music to help clients address physical, emotional and social problems. They don’t teach their clients how to play instruments and sing. Instead, they use the instruments and songs to communicate with their clients and influence them to make positive changes in their behavior and personal well-being. A music therapist’s wages range between $30,699 and $70,419.

Music Teacher

Music teachers instruct students on how to play instruments and sing. They give instructions on different musical concepts, such as rhythm, tempo and pitch. They offer training on how to use proper vocal techniques and give tips on finding the best rhythms that fit a student’s voice. Music teachers may work in schools or conduct private practice. They make between $27,404 and $84,680 per year. Those who work in private practice earn more than those who work in schools and colleges.

Sound Engineer

Sound engineers handle the technical aspects of music. They mix, reproduce and manipulate the electronic effects and equalization of audio tracks. Sound engineers do not necessarily work in music studios. Some of them end up controlling sound at theaters, conferences and other places that require sound projection. Such places may include:

radio stations
television
music recording
films, theaters
live music concerts

Their salary ranges from $24,967 to $86,035. Related: 10 Best University Jazz Programs

Songwriter

Songwriters are music professionals who write songs. They conduct research on suitable song titles, write the lyrics and put melodies on them. They also make tracks to accompany the music. Songwriters work for:

solo artists
bands
record companies
advertising agencies

Their job demands a lot of creativity as well as sound knowledge of drums, guitars, keyboards and other essential music instruments. They earn an average salary of $43,000 per year. Those who work for larger music companies and popular artists can earn more than $100,000.

Music Critic

Music critics are professionals who conduct interviews with solo artists, bands and performers and write reviews on new tracks and albums. Their reviews feature a combination of facts and opinions and inform consumers as to which songs are worth listening to and buying. Music critics work as independent professionals. Others may work for radio stations and televisions to help them review and choose the right songs for their audiences. Their average income is $42,565. The income ranges between $35,600 and $77,360 per year.

Musician

Musicians are professionals who are talented and skilled in playing musical instruments or singing. They also:

compose
conduct
perform
orchestrate
arrange music in different styles

Musicians spend a considerable amount of their time learning new pieces and practicing to perfect their skills. They also prepare for auditions, attend rehearsals and teach others how to do music. Musicians’ salaries depend on how many performances they do and which companies they work for. There are some musicians who are paid up to $1 million to perform at an event. Music is a vast area of study that provides you with a chance to pursue a wide range of careers. With a bachelor’s degree in music, you can become a:

musician
music teacher
sound engineer
music therapist, songwriter
music critic

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