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Music Director and Composer

Do you play any instrument? Are you fascinated with Bach, Mozart or Beethoven? Then, you can choose music direction or composition as a career option. Music directors also known as conductors lead, plan instrumental or vocal performances by musical groups such as bands, choirs and orchestra. Composers on the other hand write and arrange original music in various musical styles.

Role of a Music Director

• Practices for performance and recordings.
• Auditions new singers and performers.
• Selects compositions to be recorded or performed for live audience.
• Coordinate with music librarians to ensure availability of scores.
• Arrange for funds and implement promotional activities.
• Discuss with composers for interpreting their work.
• Choose guest performers and soloists.

Role of a Music Composer

• Writes and composes original scores for movies, plays and bands.
• Commissions a piece of music and meets companies and musical groups for the purpose.
• Works with music directors and singers to create and record music.
• Researches for new scores and styles.
• Discusses with directors and editors to finalize the placement of the musical piece in television or movies.
• Explore different musical styles and compositions.

Skills Required for a Music Director and Composer

Musical Knowledge: Needless to say a music director or a composer should have a vast knowledge of different musical styles and compositions. They should be adept in different musical instruments.

Computer Knowledge: Since most of the music today, is composed on computers, adequate knowledge of software programs is essential.

Interpersonal Skills: A composer and music director should have good interpersonal skills. They have to direct other musicians and conduct performances which at times could involve more than 100 musicians.

Originality: Composers should be able to compose their original scores.

Perseverance: Multiple auditions and rehearsals could be frustrating at times. Music directors and composers should have that perseverance to continue attending auditions and rehearsals.

Pros and cons of a Music Director and Composer

Pros

• Opportunity to translate your hobby of music into a profession.
• No definite educational requirements,
• Opportunity to work from home.
• Option of setting you own schedule.
• Chance to perform in front of a live audience.

Cons

• Relocation to entertainment cities is common.
• Self-employed composers can have periods of unemployment.
• Tough job competition is expected due to the popularity of the music industry.
• You can have hearing damage if you're working around loud music for long periods of time.