Teacher, music, high school

What does a music teacher in upper secondary school do? – Tasks and work environment

A music teacher in upper secondary school is responsible for teaching students in music subjects, which often include both practical and theoretical components. The teaching may cover instrument knowledge, singing, ensemble playing, music theory, and music history. The work environment is characterized by creative elements and varies between classrooms, music halls, and specialized studios. Contact with students is central, as is collaboration with colleagues across different subject areas. In addition to teaching, planning, assessment, and participation in school music events are often included.

Salary development over time

Music teachers in upper secondary school have experienced stable and positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40100 SEK, increasing to 41 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 42 700 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 6.5% during the period. The development reflects increased demand for qualified upper secondary teachers and a general trend toward higher teacher salaries within the education sector. Union negotiations and government investments in the teaching profession have also contributed to this rise. Although the profession does not have the highest salaries in education, the development is stable and predictable for those choosing this career path.

Music teacher salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 42 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,400 SEK/month (female, government sector, research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 257 SEK/hour
• Women: 42 700 SEK/month
• Men: 42 600 SEK/month
• Gender pay gap: None – women and men earn equally in this profession

Education and qualifications

To work as a music teacher in upper secondary school, a subject teacher degree with specialization in music is generally required, which involves a combination of subject studies and pedagogical training. The education includes music theory, instrument knowledge, and didactics. Practical experience and broad competence in various musical genres are often advantageous, as is the ability to lead and inspire young people.

• Subject teacher degree with specialization in music (4.5–5 years)
• Additional pedagogical training (KPU) for already trained musicians
• Internship during training (workplace-based education)
• Prerequisites: High school diploma and often entrance exams in music
• Courses in music production, ensemble playing, and digital tools

Common benefits and compensations

Music teachers in upper secondary school are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as occupational pension, holiday pay, wellness allowance, and paid professional development. Employment in the public sector or municipalities also includes safety insurances and opportunities for skill development, while private employers sometimes offer extra bonuses or reduced working hours for special projects and concerts.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a music teacher in upper secondary school is characterized by a balanced competition situation, where supply and demand for labor are relatively evenly distributed. A challenge is that both deep subject expertise and pedagogical skill are required, especially to meet students with diverse backgrounds and motivation. Technological changes in music production and digital teaching can also impose new competence requirements. Workload varies with term planning and concert events, sometimes demanding extra effort outside regular hours.

Tips for aspiring music teachers in upper secondary school

To succeed as a music teacher in upper secondary school, it is beneficial to combine musical skill with pedagogical ability and good organizational skills. Being attentive and flexible facilitates meeting students' different interests and conditions, while clear structure and planning create security in teaching. Engagement and creativity are key qualities to inspire and motivate students, especially during projects and concerts. Keeping up with musical trends and digital tools offers advantages in the classroom. Collaboration with colleagues and external actors contributes to a dynamic and developing work environment. Finally, patience and stress management skills are valuable, as the work can sometimes be intense.

Key facts about music teachers in upper secondary school

• Educational level: Subject teacher degree with specialization in music (4.5–5 years)
• Work environment: Creative, varied, often in specialized music rooms
• Work form: Full-time, permanent employment most common
• Demand: Moderate, 434 job openings in the profession
• Gender pay gap: None – women and men have similar salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a music teacher in upper secondary school, there are opportunities to develop into a senior teacher, subject coordinator, or take on leadership roles within school development projects. Some choose to combine teaching with research, especially if they have higher education in music pedagogy. The forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicates that the job market for upper secondary teachers, including music teachers, is expected to be stable with moderate opportunities over the next five years. Demand is expected to remain unchanged, and the recruitment situation is balanced, providing good conditions for establishing oneself in the profession.

Common questions about music teachers in upper secondary school

• What does a music teacher in upper secondary school earn?
  - The average salary is 42 700 SEK per month, with minor differences between genders.
• What education is required to become a music teacher in upper secondary school?
  - A subject teacher degree with specialization in music, usually 4.5–5 years, including practical training and entrance exams in music.
• Are there gender differences in salary for music teachers?
  - No, women and men practically earn the same in this profession.
• What is the job market like for music teachers in upper secondary school?
  - Opportunities are moderate, and demand is expected to be stable over the next five years.
• What are the most common benefits for music teachers?
  - Occupational pension, holiday pay, wellness allowance, and paid professional development are common.
• How wide is the salary range within the profession?
  - The lowest salary is 32,400 SEK and the highest is 48,400 SEK per month, depending on education, sector, and experience.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, for example as a senior teacher, subject coordinator, or through further education and research.