Musicians and Singers - What They Do

Musicians and singers perform with orchestras, choirs, opera companies and popular bands in establishments such as concert halls, lounges and theatres and in film, television and recording studios. This unit group also includes music teachers who usually teach in conservatories, academies and private homes.

Job duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

Musicians

Play one or more instruments as soloists or as members of a musical group before audiences or for recording purposes.

Singers

Sing musical arrangements as soloists or as members of vocal groups before audiences or for recording purposes.
Musicians and singers usually specialize in specific genres of music such as classical, country, ethnic, jazz, opera or popular music.

Teachers of music or voice

Teach technique, interpretation and music theory to students through private or group lessons.

Job titles

music teacher - musicians
accompanist
church organist
guitar player
instrumentalist
musician
opera singer
percussionist
recording artist
rock singer
singer
vocalist

Employment Requirements

This is what you typically need for the job:

Musical training from a university or college or through private instruction is usually required.
Members of orchestras and other professional classical musicians and singers usually require a university degree in music.
Musical talent and ability, as demonstrated during an audition, are important hiring criteria.
Membership in a guild or union related to the occupation or type of performance may be required.

Essential Skills

Working with Technological Equipment and Machinery