Music directors and composers held about 82,100 jobs in 2014. The industries that employed the most music directors and composers were as follows:
Religious, grantmaking, civic, professional, and similar organizations
52%
Elementary and secondary schools; state, local, and private
15
Performing arts companies
3
About 1 out of 4 were self-employed in 2014.
Music directors and composers work for religious organizations and in schools. Music directors also work in concert halls and recording studios. They may spend a lot of time traveling to different performances. Composers can work in offices, recording studios, or their own homes.
Jobs for music directors and composers are found all over the country. However, many jobs are located in cities in which entertainment activities are concentrated, such as New York, Los Angeles, Nashville, and Chicago.
Work Schedules
Rehearsals and recording sessions are commonly held during business hours, but performances take place most often on nights and weekends. Because music writing is done primarily independently, composers may be able to set their own schedules.