Guitarist, classical music

What does a classical guitarist do? – Tasks and work environment

A classical guitarist primarily works on performing music written for classical guitar, often in professional settings such as concerts, operas, ensembles, or as a soloist. Tasks include interpreting and rehearsing classical works, collaborating with other musicians and conductors, and participating in recordings and cultural events. The work environment can vary from concert halls and churches to studios and teaching rooms. It is common for the profession to be combined with teaching or freelance assignments to create a stable income base.

Salary development over time

The salary for a classical guitarist has shown mixed development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,200 SEK per month, followed by a slight decrease to 44 300 SEK in 2023, which corresponds to a reduction of about 2%. In 2024, however, the salary has risen sharply to 48 300 SEK, an increase of just over 9% compared to the previous year. This positive trend can be linked to increased demand for qualified musicians, especially in concert halls and larger institutions, as well as a general salary adjustment within the cultural sector. At the same time, a clear gender pay gap remains, with women earning 85% of men's salaries. The market is also influenced by the number of available positions and competition from freelancers and international musicians.

Classical guitarist salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 48 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 51,900 SEK/month
• Hourly rate: 290 SEK
• Women: 44,200 SEK/month
• Men: 51,900 SEK/month
• Women earn: 85% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a classical guitarist, a solid education at a music college or equivalent is usually required, with a focus on classical guitar. The educational path often includes preparatory studies at folk high schools or upper secondary schools with an aesthetic program, followed by higher music education. Practical experience, competition merits, and participation in master classes are also important for establishing oneself in the profession.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's degree in music (3–4 years), often followed by a master's program
• Prerequisites: Entrance exams and documented playing experience
• Practical experience: Participation in ensembles and concerts during studies
• Certifications/courses: Master classes and workshops
• Self-study: Personal practice and repertoire development are crucial

Common benefits and compensations

Classical guitarists often receive benefits such as occupational pension, compensation for practice time, travel allowances for tours, and wellness contributions. Employment at larger institutions may also include insurance and access to practice rooms. Freelance musicians sometimes negotiate extra compensation for evening and weekend performances.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a classical guitarist is characterized by fierce competition for permanent positions and soloist assignments, although there are a relatively large number of available jobs within the group of musicians, singers, and composers. Many choose to combine different work forms, such as teaching and freelance playing, to meet financial challenges. The high level of education and the demands for musical skill make entry into the profession demanding. At the same time, there is a paradox on the job market, where recruitment difficulties coexist with high unemployment and a large proportion of part-time work. Uncertainty about future assignments and the need for continuous development are recurring challenges for professionals in the field.

Tips for aspiring classical guitarists

To succeed as a classical guitarist, it is beneficial to combine musical skill with perseverance and strong personal drive. Regular participation in master classes and competitions develops technique and stage presence, while networking with other musicians is crucial for finding new collaborations and assignments. Good self-discipline is required to maintain daily practice and continuous repertoire development. Flexibility is an important trait, as the job market often demands combining different roles, such as teaching and freelance performances. Being communicative and able to market oneself is also advantageous, especially for those aiming to work as soloists or build their own audience. Attentiveness and willingness to collaborate facilitate partnerships with other musicians and conductors. Finally, patience is essential, as establishing oneself and reaching a stable income level often takes time.

Key facts about Classical Guitarist

• Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree in music, with a focus on classical guitar
• Typical work form: Freelance, institution, or combined with teaching
• Number of available jobs in the profession: 620
• Demand: Great opportunities, but fierce competition for permanent positions
• Special skills: Classical guitar technique and sight-reading

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a classical guitarist, professionals can advance to roles such as soloist, ensemble leader, or educator at cultural schools and higher education institutions. Many choose to combine stage performances with teaching to create a broader career base. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, opportunities within the group of "musicians, singers, and composers" are large, although competition for permanent employment is tough. Over five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, resulting in a stable but challenging job market. The recruitment situation is characterized by both high unemployment and difficulties in finding the right skills, meaning that those who are skilled and flexible have good chances of employment, especially if they are open to combining different roles.

Frequently asked questions about Classical Guitarist

• What is the salary of a classical guitarist?
  - The average salary is 48 300 SEK per month, but it can vary depending on experience, gender, and workplace.
• What education is required to become a classical guitarist?
  - A bachelor's degree in music with a focus on classical guitar is usually required.
• What is the job market like for classical guitarists?
  - There are significant opportunities, but competition for permanent positions is fierce and many combine multiple work forms.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 85% of what men do in the profession.
• What tasks does a classical guitarist perform?
  - Tasks include concerts, teaching, rehearsals, and recordings.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The forecast indicates demand will remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 51,900 SEK and the lowest is 42,200 SEK per month.