How to Become a Music Professor: Is It the Right Career for You?

Music Professor Career Video

Becoming a music professor is a rewarding career path for individuals passionate about music and education. This role involves teaching, mentoring, and contributing to the music world through performance, research, and community engagement. If you love music and enjoy helping others reach their full potential, this guide will help you explore what it takes to become a music professor and determine if it’s the right career for you.


What Does a Music Professor Do?

Music professors play a multifaceted role that combines teaching, mentorship, research, performance, and administrative responsibilities. Their work is vital to shaping the next generation of musicians and contributing to the broader field of music education and performance. Here’s a closer look at their primary duties:

Teaching Responsibilities

Music professors are primarily educators, teaching courses designed to develop students’ musical and academic skills. They may focus on:

  • Music Theory and Composition: Helping students understand the structure of music and how to create original compositions.
  • Music History: Exploring the evolution of music, including major movements, composers, and cultural influences.
  • Performance: Guiding students in mastering instruments or vocal techniques, focusing on technical proficiency and artistic expression.
  • Pedagogy: Training students in effective methods for teaching music to others, preparing them for careers as educators.
  • Ensemble Classes: Leading group performances such as choirs, orchestras, jazz bands, or chamber ensembles, which involve collaboration and interpretation of musical works.

Professors tailor their teaching approaches to address diverse learning needs, often balancing lecture-based instruction with hands-on practice and individual coaching.

Mentorship and Advising

A key part of a music professor’s role is mentoring students beyond the classroom. This includes:

  • Career Guidance: Assisting students in preparing for auditions, creating professional portfolios, and networking within the music industry.
  • Academic Advising: Helping students select courses, plan their educational paths, and complete degree requirements.
  • Industry Insights: Providing real-world advice about navigating the challenges of music careers, such as freelancing, recording, or pursuing advanced studies.

Mentorship is essential in helping students build confidence, refine their goals, and transition successfully into professional roles.

Research and Performance

Music professors are often active contributors to the field of music through:

  • Performance: Maintaining an active soloist, ensemble member, or conductor schedule. Performing regularly helps professors stay connected to the practical aspects of music.
  • Composition: Writing original works, from orchestral pieces to chamber music and experimental compositions.
  • Scholarly Research: Publishing articles, books, or studies on music theory, history, pedagogy, or cultural analysis.
  • Creative Collaborations: Partnering with other musicians, composers, or artists to develop innovative projects.

Engaging in research and performance not only enriches their teaching but also establishes them as leaders in their field.

Administrative Duties

Music professors also contribute to the administrative functioning of their departments and institutions. These responsibilities may include:

  • Curriculum Development: Designing new courses, updating syllabi, and ensuring academic programs meet accreditation standards.
  • Committees: On university committees addressing hiring, diversity, or academic policies.
  • Event Organization: Coordinating recitals, concerts, guest lectures, workshops, and music festivals to provide students with enriching experiences.
  • Program Evaluation: Assessing and improving the effectiveness of academic programs and resources.

Administrative work ensures the smooth operation of academic programs and enhances the overall quality of music education for students.

The role of a music professor is dynamic and multifaceted, requiring a balance of expertise in music, teaching, mentorship, and administrative skills. Their work not only shapes the talents and careers of aspiring musicians but also contributes to the growth and evolution of the musical arts.


What Is the Working Environment for a Music Professor?

Music professors typically work in colleges, universities, and conservatories. Their environments include classrooms, rehearsal spaces, performance halls, and offices. Depending on the institution, they may also have access to recording studios and specialized equipment.

Work Schedule

The work schedule of a music professor often includes:

  • Teaching Hours: Professors spend a significant portion of their time in lectures, rehearsals, and individual lessons.
  • Preparation Time: Developing lesson plans, grading assignments, and preparing for performances are integral parts of the job.
  • Evenings and Weekends: Professors may work outside regular hours to accommodate performances, recitals, and student events.

Collaboration and Networking

Music professors frequently collaborate with colleagues, guest artists, and community organizations. These partnerships create opportunities for creative projects, performances, and student exposure to diverse perspectives.


How Do You Become a Music Professor?

Education and Training

  1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Begin with a degree in music, focusing on your chosen specialty (e.g., performance, composition, or education).
  2. Pursue a Master’s Degree: A master’s degree in music is typically required for teaching at the collegiate level. Programs often include advanced coursework, research, and performance opportunities.
  3. Obtain a Doctoral Degree: A Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) or Ph.D. in Music is usually necessary for tenured positions. These programs emphasize expertise in a specific area and may include a dissertation or significant performance component.

Gain Experience

  • Perform Regularly: Building a strong reputation as a performer or composer can enhance your credentials.
  • Teach in Various Settings: Gain teaching experience by instructing private lessons, working in K-12 schools, or serving as an adjunct faculty member.
  • Publish and Present: Contribute to academic journals, present at conferences, or compose original works.

Build a Network

Networking with professionals in the music and academic fields is essential. Attend conferences, participate in workshops, and collaborate with peers to create opportunities for career advancement.

For more information on academic pathways, visit the National Association of Schools of Music.


What Is the Salary of a Music Professor?

The salary of a music professor varies based on education, experience, and institution type. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary arts, drama, and music teachers earn an average annual salary of approximately $85,640 as of 2023. However, salaries can range from $45,000 for entry-level positions to over $150,000 for tenured professors at prestigious universities.

For updated salary information, visit BLS Postsecondary Teachers.


What Is the Labor Market for a Music Professor?

The demand for music professors depends on location, institution size, and student interest in music programs. While opportunities exist, competition for tenure-track positions can be fierce. Adjunct and part-time roles are more readily available but may offer lower pay and fewer benefits.

For more labor market insights, visit O*NET OnLine.


What Are the Pros and Cons of Being a Music Professor?

Pros

  • Fulfilling Work: Inspire the next generation of musicians and share your passion for music.
  • Creative Freedom: Engage in research, performances, and compositions that align with your interests.
  • Job Stability: Tenured positions offer job security and benefits.

Cons

  • High Competition: Securing a full-time, tenure-track position can be challenging.
  • Work-Life Balance: Balancing teaching, research, and performance can be demanding.
  • Educational Requirements: Advanced degrees and years of preparation are necessary.

What Are Related Jobs for a Music Professor?

Explore these related careers:

  • Music Director: Lead orchestras, choirs, or other musical ensembles, coordinating rehearsals and performances.
  • Composer: Create original music for various mediums, including films, television, and live performances.
  • Private Music Instructor: Teach individual students or small groups to play instruments, sing, or compose.
  • Music Therapist: Use music to help clients improve their mental health, physical well-being, and cognitive functioning.
  • Sound Engineer: Operate and maintain equipment for recording, mixing, and producing music and audio content.

What Types of Jobs Can a Music Professor Pursue?

Music professors can explore various roles beyond teaching, including:

  • Department Chair: Lead and manage a university’s music department.
  • Artistic Director: Oversee the creative vision of a music organization or ensemble.
  • Researcher: Conduct scholarly studies on music history, theory, or education.
  • Consultant: Advise schools, organizations, or companies on music-related projects.

What Websites Are Best for Finding Music Professor Jobs?

Here are some top websites to explore music professor job opportunities:


How Do I Know If I Should Be a Music Professor?

Becoming a music professor is a significant career commitment, and assessing your suitability for the role is crucial. Here are key steps to help you evaluate if this path aligns with your passions, skills, and goals:

Take a Career Aptitude Test

A career aptitude test is an excellent starting point for understanding how well-suited you are for a career as a music professor. The Free Career Fit Test™ (https://www.careerfittest.com/) is a comprehensive tool that can guide your decision by offering the following:

  • Career Test: Matches your interests with careers, helping you explore your enthusiasm for teaching, music, and academia. It can clarify if your passion aligns with the responsibilities of a music professor.
  • Career Aptitude Assessment: Highlights the specific strengths, skills, and abilities you bring to the table relevant to this role, such as musical proficiency, leadership, and teaching capabilities.
  • Personality Trait Quiz: Helps evaluate whether your personal traits align with the qualities typically required in this field, such as creativity, patience, adaptability, and the ability to mentor students effectively.

The Career Fit Test™ provides a Holland Code, categorizing careers into six interest types. A music professor typically fits an Artistic, Social, and Investigative profile. The test’s Premium Report and Skills Map™ also help you identify transferable skills, plan your career path, and create actionable steps to pursue your passion for music education.

Conduct Informational Interviews

Another powerful way to determine if becoming a music professor is right for you is by speaking with individuals already in the field. Informational interviews allow you to:

  • Understand the Role: Learn about the day-to-day responsibilities of a music professor, including teaching, research, administrative duties, and mentoring students.
  • Hear About Challenges: Gain insight into the challenges of academia, such as navigating tenure-track positions, managing student dynamics, and balancing professional development with personal commitments.
  • Discover What They Love: Learn about the most rewarding aspects of their work, such as inspiring students, contributing to musical research, and collaborating with colleagues in the arts.

Prepare thoughtful questions and listen carefully to their experiences. These conversations can provide invaluable guidance and help gauge whether the career aligns with your aspirations.

By taking these steps, you can decide whether a career as a music professor fits your passions and goals. Informational interviews are a powerful way to determine if this career aligns with your aspirations.


How Can I Learn More About a Career as a Music Professor?

For additional information, visit these resources:


Professional Development Opportunities

Becoming a music professor doesn’t end once you secure a position. Professional growth is an ongoing process that enhances your teaching, research, and artistic contributions. Here are some ways to stay current and excel in your field:

  • Attend Conferences: Events like the College Music Society’s annual conference or regional music education gatherings offer opportunities to network, share research, and learn about the latest music education and performance trends.
  • Join Professional Organizations: Membership in groups such as the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) or the International Society for Music Education (ISME) provides access to resources, advocacy efforts, and professional development programs.
  • Pursue Continuing Education: Stay updated with new methodologies, technologies, and research by enrolling in workshops, seminars, or advanced coursework.
  • Collaborate: Partner with fellow educators, composers, and performers on interdisciplinary projects to broaden your skillset and contribute to the music community.

Conclusion

Becoming a music professor is a fulfilling career choice for those passionate about music, education, and mentorship. While the path requires dedication, advanced education, and hard work, the opportunity to inspire students, advance the field of music, and enjoy creative freedom makes it an ideal career for many.

If you’re considering this career, take time to evaluate your interests, skills, and long-term goals. Tools like the Career Fit Test™ can help you identify your strengths and plan your path to success.

For those ready to pursue this rewarding journey, start by taking small steps, such as gaining teaching experience or pursuing a master’s degree. With persistence and passion, you can find your place in music academia and make a lasting impact.