Is being a music director or composer a good fit for you?
Leads and plans musical performances by groups such as orchestras, bands and choirs. May also write or arrange music.
What the work involves
- Uses hand gestures to shape the music, showing speed, phrasing, tone, pitch and volume.
- Leads groups at rehearsals and live or recorded performances to get the right balance, rhythm and speed.
- Studies music scores in detail to learn the music and decide how to play it.
- Uses music theory to create musical structures, including harmonies and melodies.
The interests that suit it
People in this work tend to be creative and persuading. Here is how much each of the six kinds of interest comes into it.
What it tends to reward
Compared with other work, this job stands out for:
- Mastery. Getting really good at something over time.
- Independence. Trusted to decide how the work gets done.
How much training it needs
Degree required. Usually a degree, sometimes more study after. Rules differ from country to country, so check locally before you commit.
Find out if it fits you
Answer quick questions about what you like doing and what keeps you going. We match you with roles from over 900 kinds of work, and you can see if a music director or composer is one of yours.
Free. About 15 minutes. No account.