Duties and Tasks

Musicians may perform the following tasks:

• study and rehearse musical scores prior to performances
• play music in recital, as an accompanist, or as a member of an orchestra, band or other musical group, from score or by memory
• make recordings for sale on tape or compact disc
• make videos to represent the music
• may provide musical backing for television commercials, popular recordings, radio, television or film productions
• may improvise, transpose, compose, or arrange music
• may play under the direction of a conductor.

Specialisations

A musician may perform a variety of tasks depending on their area of specialisation.

Classical Musician
Composer
Conductor (Music)
Ethnomusicologist
Jazz Musician
Music Arranger
Music Critic
Musicologist
Performing Musician/Instrumentalist

Work Conditions

Musicians must be prepared to work irregular hours and spend long periods practising and rehearsing. Some musicians work in areas unrelated to music to support themselves. Many professional musicians with experience in all styles combine music performance and music teaching careers in Australia.

Personal Requirements

• musical skills
• stamina to perform at peak level
• self-confidence, motivation, dedication and determination
• able to concentrate for long periods
• mastery of one or more styles of music such as classical, jazz or pop
• flair for entertainment.

Related Industries

Motion Picture and Sound Recording Activities
Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (Except Computer System Design and Related Services)
Creative and Performing Arts Activities

Labour Market

Information

Australian JobOutlook for Music Professionals

Vacancies

Australian JobSearch for Musicians and Singers (ALL AUSTRALIA)
Australian VolunteerSearch - Arts/Culture and Heritage for ALL AUSTRALIA
Work Opportunities websites

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