Music Education

Course Information

MUS 101
MUS 115

The Music Education program is designed for students who wish to prepare for a career in music with options in Music Education (elementary or secondary), Professional Performance, Music Industry, Jazz Education, Church Music and Music Therapy. This program also prepares students interested in teaching music for transfer to a university, where they may earn a bachelor’s degree and state certification to teach music in public elementary and secondary schools, or continue on to an advanced degree and teach on the college or university level. Graduates may also choose to teach in private schools and recreation associations or instruct individual students in private sessions.

Whether playing musical instruments, singing, composing or arranging music, or conducting, persons considering careers in music should have musical talent, versatility, creativity, and-- for those performing in front of an audience--poise and good stage presence. Because quality performance requires constant study and practice, self-discipline is vital. Performers must achieve a level of performing excellence and be counted on to be on their game whenever they perform. Musicians who play in concerts or in nightclubs and those who tour must have physical stamina to endure frequent travel and an irregular performance schedule.

Music-related workers are employed in a variety of settings. They may perform solo or as part of a group entertaining live audiences in nightclubs, concert halls, and theaters featuring opera, musical theater, or dance. Many of these entertainers play for live audiences; others perform exclusively for recording or production studios. Still others are employed in music education as instructors, band and choir directors.

Advancement for musicians usually means becoming better known. Successful musicians often rely on agents or managers to find them performing engagements, negotiate contracts, and develop their careers.

Nearly two-thirds are employed by religious organizations and almost one-fourth by performing arts companies. The Armed Forces also offer careers in their bands and smaller musical groups. Hourly earnings for musicians and singers vary dramatically with the job. Among music directors and composers, the highest 10 percent earned more than $75,380. (Source: U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics)