What does a musical artist do? – Job tasks and work environment
A musical artist works by portraying roles in musicals and stage productions where singing, dancing, and acting are combined. The work involves rehearsals, performances, and often tours, requiring great flexibility and adaptability. The work environment is dynamic and can range from large theater stages to smaller venues or outdoor settings. The work is often done in teams with directors, choreographers, musicians, and other artists, demanding strong collaboration and communication skills.
Salary development over time
The salary for musical artists has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,800 SEK, rising to 34 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 37 200 SEK in 2024. This development represents a total increase of approximately 10% over three years. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified musical artists and the resumption of productions after pandemic-related shutdowns. At the same time, competition for the most attractive roles has driven up salary levels for the most experienced performers. Gender salary differences are clear, with women earning slightly more on average than men, which is uncommon in the cultural sector.
Musical artist salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 37 200 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 28,100 SEK/month (female), 32,400 SEK/month (male)
- Highest salary: 43,600 SEK/month (female), 43,700 SEK/month (male)
- Hourly wage: 224 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 106% of what men do (women: 38 100 SEK, men: 35 900 SEK)
- Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but salary levels can vary between large cities and other parts of the country
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a musical artist often involves specialized training in singing, dance, and theater, including both theoretical and practical components. Many choose to attend high school programs with an aesthetic focus and continue with higher education, such as at music or theater colleges. Practical experience, auditions, and ongoing training are crucial for establishing oneself in the profession.
- High school education: Aesthetic program with a focus on theater, singing, or dance (3 years)
- Post-secondary education: University programs in musical, theater, or dance (2–4 years)
- Courses and workshops: Specialized courses in singing techniques, dance styles, and acting
- Practical experience: Portfolio work, auditions, and internships at theaters
- Prerequisites: Good musical and physical ability, stage experience
Many musical artists combine their stage performances with teaching or freelance assignments, which broadens their skills and increases the chances of steady income between productions.
Common benefits and compensations
Musical artists are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, pension contributions, and sometimes access to training facilities or voice coaching through their employer. For longer engagements, collective agreement-based compensations, holiday pay, and overtime premiums may also apply. Compensation levels are influenced by the size of the production and the type of employment.
Competition and challenges
The profession of a musical artist is highly competitive, with many applicants for each announced role. Permanent positions are limited, and most work on a project basis or as freelancers. Another challenge is the physical and mental strain involved, with long rehearsals, evening and weekend performances, and high performance demands at every show. Temporary production halts or changes in the job market can affect job availability. Continuous further training is necessary to stay competitive. Despite these challenges, many are drawn to the profession because of its creative and expressive nature.
Tips for aspiring musical artists
To succeed as a musical artist, it is important to combine perseverance with a strong passion for performing arts. Regular training in singing, dance, and acting helps develop versatility, which is crucial for standing out in auditions. Good social skills are important for networking and building relationships with directors, choreographers, and fellow artists. Self-discipline makes it easier to handle intensive periods of rehearsals and performances. Being open to feedback and continuous development increases the chances of growth in the profession. Flexibility and the ability to manage uncertainty are also key qualities, as the job market can fluctuate over time. Finally, it is recommended to seek diverse experiences, such as participating in different productions and collaborations.
Key facts about Musical Artist
- Education level: Usually high school or post-secondary aesthetic education
- Average salary: 37 200 SEK/month
- Employment type: Project-based or freelance, few permanent positions
- Work environment: Theater stage, concert halls, and touring activities
- Available jobs (2024): 620 within the actor profession
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a musical artist can advance to more prominent roles or secure recurring engagements at larger theaters. Many choose to broaden their skills and work as choreographers, vocal coaches, or directors. Others continue in the entertainment industry as freelancers with assignments in advertising, film, or TV productions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, there is no specific assessment for musical artists, but there are a total of 620 available jobs within the actor profession. The job market is thus competitive and dependent on demand for stage productions, but creative and versatile artists have good opportunities to build a sustainable career.
Frequently asked questions about Musical Artist
- What does a musical artist earn?
- The average salary for a musical artist is 37 200 SEK per month.
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn on average 38 100 SEK while men earn 35 900 SEK, which means women earn 106% of men's salaries.
- What is the lowest and highest salary for a musical artist?
- The lowest salary is 28,100 SEK and the highest is 43,700 SEK per month.
- What education is required to become a musical artist?
- Usually, a high school or post-secondary aesthetic education in singing, dance, or theater is required.
- What does the job market look like for musical artists?
- The job market is competitive, but there were 620 available jobs within the actor profession in 2024.
- What are the most common forms of employment?
- Most work as freelancers or on project-based contracts, while permanent positions are rare.
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Specific data is lacking, but salary levels can vary between large cities and other parts of the country.
