Electron musician

What does an Elektronmusiker do? – Tasks and work environment

An Elektronmusiker works with creating, producing, and performing music where electronic tools and digital technology are central. Tasks can include composition, sound design, mixing, mastering, and live performances using computers, synthesizers, and software. Many Elektronmusiker are freelancers, but work also occurs in music production, sound design for film and games, and teaching. The work environment varies; some work in home studios, others in professional music studios or on stage at concerts and events. The profession demands high technical skills, creativity, and flexibility, and irregular working hours are common, especially during live performances and project-based work.

Salary development over time

The salary for Elektronmusiker has shown variation over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,200 SEK per month, which decreased to 44 300 SEK in 2023. However, in 2024, there was a significant increase to 48 300 SEK, representing about a 9% rise compared to the previous year. This increase can partly be explained by rising demand for digital music production and technically skilled musicians, as the music industry continues to digitalize. At the same time, salary levels are affected by competition within the profession and the prevalence of freelance assignments, which can lead to large individual salary variations. Despite fluctuations, the trend is a slow upward salary development, especially for those with sought-after technical skills and experience with current music software.

Elektronmusiker salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 51,900 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 290 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 44,200 SEK/month (85% of men's salary), men 51,900 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan regions tend to offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as an Elektronmusiker, a combination of formal education in music production, sound engineering, or composition and extensive practical experience is usually required. Many start with music studies at the high school level and then proceed to universities or music colleges specializing in electronic music. Self-study and specialized online courses are also common, especially in digital tools and software. Practical experience, personal production, and networking play a crucial role in establishing a career in the field.

• Formal degree: Music production, sound engineering, or composition (2–4 years)
• Certifications/courses: Specialized courses in DAW, sound design, and mixing
• Internship/trainee: Common in music studios or via projects
• Prerequisites: Basic musicality and technical skills
• Self-study/online: Very common and often necessary to stay updated

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for Elektronmusiker include access to professional equipment and software, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. Some employment also offers wellness allowances, pension contributions, and insurance. For freelance work, compensation beyond salary may include royalties, bonuses for project delivery, and sometimes travel allowances for live performances.

Competition and challenges

The competition in the profession of Elektronmusiker is high, as many musicians seek entry into the digital music industry. The market is characterized by a combination of high demand for digital music and a large supply of creative talents. A challenge is rapid technological development – continuous skill upgrading is required to stay relevant. Many Elektronmusiker work project-based or as freelancers, which can create income and workload uncertainty. Building a strong network and establishing a personal profile are crucial for success. Additionally, unequal pay conditions and limited access to permanent positions can pose barriers, especially for women.

Tips for aspiring Elektronmusiker

To succeed as an Elektronmusiker, it is advisable to combine technical curiosity with creativity and perseverance. Developing deep knowledge of music theory and digital tools provides a solid foundation, while collaboration and networking open doors to new projects. Self-discipline is important to drive personal productions forward and stay updated with the latest technology. Experimenting and finding a unique style are key to standing out in the industry, as well as being open to feedback and continuous development. Strong communication skills facilitate collaborations with other musicians and producers, and building a portfolio of your own works increases chances of establishing a professional career.

Key facts about Elektronmusiker

• Education level: Post-secondary education, often music college (2–4 years)
• Work environment: Studio-based work, often freelance or project employment
• Common work form: Freelance, self-employed, or consultant
• Demand: High in digital music production and sound design
• Special skills: Sound engineering, digital music tools, creative creation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an Elektronmusiker may have built a broad portfolio and established themselves as a producer, sound designer, or composer in various industries such as gaming, film, or advertising. There are good opportunities to work internationally or start a business in music production. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show that job opportunities for musicians, singers, and composers are strong, with an expected unchanged demand over the next five years. However, paradoxically, recruitment difficulties exist – while many jobs are available, competition is fierce, and the proportion of part-time workers is high. Those developing specialized skills in sound design, programming, or interactive music production have particularly good future prospects. Currently, there are about 620 job openings in the profession, indicating continued demand for skills.

Common questions about Elektronmusiker

• What does an Elektronmusiker earn?
  - An Elektronmusiker has an average salary of 48 300 SEK per month, but this varies depending on experience, gender, and employment type.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Men earn on average 51,900 SEK/month while women earn 44,200 SEK/month, which corresponds to 85% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become an Elektronmusiker?
  - Post-secondary education in music production or sound engineering is common, but self-study and online courses are also important.
• What is the job market like for Elektronmusiker?
  - The demand is considered high, with about 620 job openings and good prospects for the coming years.
• What tasks does an Elektronmusiker perform?
  - Tasks include composition, production, sound design, mixing, and live performances with digital tools.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, Elektronmusiker in metropolitan regions tend to have higher salaries than those in smaller regions, though variation can be significant.