Music Composer Job Description

by Aurelio Locsin

Although singers belt out tunes on the radio and orchestras play symphonies in concert halls, the music that they perform comes are penned by composers. These artists express their creativity through notes and melodies, preparing pieces that are performed live by soloists or recorded by groups to accompany multimedia productions.


Composers create original music by developing notes into songs, concertos, and musical accompaniments to other entertainments, such as movies and TV shows. They may work with bands, orchestras and other musical groups; arrange existing compositions into new harmonies for different collections of instruments; and specialize in different styles, such as classical, rock or jazz. Some composers work with lyricists or playwrights to create musical productions such as operas, while others teach their craft in educational institutions. Composers collaborating with others may have standard work schedules; however, those working by themselves can set their own hours.

Hybrid Jobs

Hybrid jobs are those that combine composing with another skill. For example, composer-performers create the music that they play on solo instruments, which allows them to control exactly how their creations are performed. Composer-conductors work with orchestras and large musical groups, which broadens the scope of their control and creativity using several instruments. Those with academic skills can become composer-teachers, who impart knowledge of their craft to those who are just learning. Teaching jobs can provide a source of steady income that is not affected by artistic risk. (REFERENCE 6)


Those skilled in musical composition do not necessarily have to pursue jobs in composing or performing music. Their expertise can be useful for software developers who create programs that notate music, process audio, teach music theory or accompany performers. Composers can represent the musical field in arts organizations, where they primarily sponsor and administer musical programs and new talent. As music journalists or critics, they can use their knowledge to provide incisive and educational commentary on concerts and performances. And in music composer organizations, they can promote the work of members through grants and presentations.


No specific education is necessary for those wanting to write popular music. Many find jobs by recording their compositions with instruments and then submitting them to production companies, singers, bands and agents. Composers wanting to write classical or orchestral music generally acquire a bachelor’s degree in music theory or music composition from universities and conservatories. Admission may require personal auditions or recordings of past work. The profession requires musical talent, the discipline to hone skills, perseverance to continually submit compositions after multiple rejections, and people skills for interacting with musicians, singers and producers.


Music composers earned a mean $53,760 annually as of May 2011, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS. Annual salaries range from below $22,190 to above $85,770. Most of the jobs are in areas with large populations such as the states of New York, Texas and California, and the cities of New York, Chicago, Dallas and Los Angeles. Elementary and secondary schools provide the most employment, with 16,880 out of the total 25,290 jobs and mean salaries at $50,340 yearly. The highest pay is for independent composers, who average $111,500 per year, reports the BLS.


Jobs for music composers are expected to increase by 10 percent through 2020, which is less than the 13 percent growth projected for all arts and entertainment occupations, and under the 14 percent predicted for all workers in all industries, according to the BLS. A growing population is expected to demand more music for multimedia and live performances. However, employment may be limited by the need of orchestras and other performing arts groups to obtain funding to hire artists. Strong competition is expected because there are far more talented composers than there are full-time positions to accommodate them, reports the BLS.

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