Composer, art music salary

What does it mean to be a Composer in Art Music?

As a Composer in art music, you have a creative and artistic role where you create musical works. The profession may involve composing music for orchestras, ensembles, or individual instruments. It requires both technical skill in music composition and a deep understanding of musical theories and traditions. Many composers in art music work as freelancers, but there are also opportunities for employment by music ensembles, schools, or in the media.

Salary for a Composer, art music

Understanding the salary levels within the profession is important for anyone considering a career as a Composer in art music. The average salary for this profession is 44 300 SEK per month. However, there is a gender pay gap where men earn an average of 47 500 SEK while women earn 41 600 SEK, meaning that women earn approximately 88% of what men do. An hourly employee in the profession has an average hourly wage of 266 SEK, based on 166 working hours per month. It is also worth noting that the average salary has decreased from 45 200 SEK to 44 300 SEK since the last measurement.

Salary range in the profession

The highest recorded salary for a Composer in art music is 47 500 SEK, a salary belonging to a man working as a privately employed official with an unspecified level of education. The highest salary for a woman in the profession is 42100 SEK. On the lower end of the salary scale, a woman with post-secondary education shorter than three years earns 37900 SEK, while the lowest salary for a man is 43500 SEK.

Education and Qualifications

Becoming a Composer in art music usually requires a solid education in music, often at the university level. Many composers have completed education at music conservatories or universities where they have studied musicology, composition, and sometimes conducting. There are also various music and artistic courses and workshops that can be useful for refining one's techniques and style.

Future Prospects and Job Market

According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the job opportunities for musicians, singers, and composers, including Composers in art music, are significant at the national level. This means that there are good chances of finding work in the profession, although the recruitment situation can be paradoxical with both recruitment difficulties and high unemployment/part-time work in certain parts of the professional group. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over a five-year period.

Challenges and Competition

The profession of Composer in art music can be competitive, especially for those wishing to work with major orchestras or music productions. It is important to build a strong network within the music industry and continuously develop one's skills and portfolio of musical works to increase opportunities in the workplace.

Working Conditions and Benefits

The working conditions for a Composer in art music can vary depending on the form of employment. Many work as freelancers and thus have the opportunity to control their working hours and location, which can include benefits such as working from home. For those who are employed, benefits may include access to music studios, paid training, and the opportunity to participate in various musical projects and productions.

What to Consider?

For those considering becoming a Composer in art music, it is crucial to have a passion for music and artistic creation. It is also important to be prepared to work hard to establish a name in the industry and to be open to various musical projects and collaborations. A strong understanding of the technical aspects of music and a creative vision are key to succeeding in this profession.