Business managers, talent agents, and booking agents are all occupations which deal directly with the management aspects of the music industry. Negotiating contracts, managing support personnel, monitoring financial affairs, handling publicity, and arranging engagements are possible areas of responsibility. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as extensive knowledge of the music industry, are essential for success in this career area. Other areas of opportunity which are not performance based exist in retailing, wholesaling, and instrument restoration and repair. Composers, songwriters, and jingle writers are all occupations which directly involve the creation of music.
Arrangers work with existing pieces of music to create new harmonies and alter or improve rhythms.
Possible work settings include music publishers, radio and television, and the motion picture industry. Most individuals working in this area operate as free-lance professionals, and many work additional jobs to help supplement their income. Music provides a wide array of teaching opportunities. You may decide to provide private instruction to students of all ages, or you may choose to teach in a more structured setting. If you are interested in teaching in an elementary or secondary school, then you will need teaching certification.