Job Description
Musicians are involved in performing, recording or writing music in a variety of genres, this could be in a recording studio or in front of a live audience and could be freelance, part of an orchestra, band, choir, opera company or theatre company. Musicians often play more than one instrument to make themselves more marketable.
Becoming a musician will involve practice to improve techniques, rehearsals to prepare for performances, auditioning for positions, you may also have to find locations for performances or concerts, promote your career by running a website, ensure you have a high social media presence, become involved in photo shoots, give interviews and travel great distances to perform at venues.
Hours and salaries can vary enormously.
Entry Requirements
You will need a high level of musical skill and a passion for music. You could also take various courses that may help you get into this role:
University
You could take a degree course in one of the following:
- Music
- Popular music
- Audio & music technology
- Music performance & production
Entry requirements may vary depending on the university you apply to but you will normally need:
- 2 or 3 A levels or equivalent
College
You could take a college course to get some professional training.
Courses available include
- Foundation in Music Level 2
- Music Performance Level 2
- Music Performance & Production Level 3 Diploma
- Popular Music Extended Level 3 Diploma
- Musical Theatre Level 3 Diploma
Entry requirements to get onto the course are ususally
2 or more GCSE's at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D) or equivalent for a Level 2
4 or 5 GCSE's grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent for a Level 3
The following local colleges offer music courses:
- City College Norwich
- College of West Anglia
- West Suffolk College
- One 6th Form College
- Suffolk New College
- Access to Music
Or your local 6th form may offer a relevant course
Other routes
Many musicians teach themselves and start playing an instrument from an early age and then join a band, orchestra, choir or get involved with a local theatre.
The Associated Board of the Royal School of Music and Rockschool offer qualifications and graded music exams.
Career Tips
The BBC introducing programme is a great way to get yourself heard if you are an unsigned musician
Other useful websites include:
Required Skills
- A very high level of musical ability
- Dedication and determination
- Excellent social skills
- Patience and understanding if working with others
- Attention to detail
