Musician, art music

What does a musician in contemporary classical music do? – Tasks and work environment

A musician in contemporary classical music performs and interprets classical repertoire as well as newly composed contemporary works in various settings. Tasks often include solo performances, orchestral playing, chamber music, and sometimes teaching or composition. Many work project-based, switching between different ensembles, orchestras, or freelance assignments, which requires great flexibility and good collaboration skills. The work environment varies between concert halls, churches, studios, and sometimes schools, with often irregular working hours, especially during concerts and tours.

Salary development over time

The salary for musicians in contemporary classical music has shown some variation over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,200 SEK per month, but it decreased slightly the following year to 44 300 SEK. In 2024, wages increased significantly to 48 300 SEK, corresponding to a rise of about 9% from the previous year. This increase can partly be explained by a growing demand for qualified musicians in contemporary classical music, as well as the recovery of the job market after the pandemic, which has created greater demand for cultural performers. Salary development is also influenced by education level and experience, with those having longer education or broader skills often able to negotiate higher wages. Despite a positive trend, clear gender differences remain, with men earning considerably more on average than women.

Musician, contemporary classical music salary – full overview

• Average salary: 48 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,200 SEK/month (female, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 51,900 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, unspecified education level)
• Hourly wage: 290 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 44,200 SEK/month, men earn 51,900 SEK/month (85 % of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on regional variations is unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a musician in contemporary classical music often involves many years of formal training and specialization in one or more instruments. Most have a university or conservatory degree, where practical and theoretical skills are developed. In addition to formal education, experience from concerts, competitions, and collaborations is crucial for establishing oneself in the profession.

• Music college degree: Bachelor's (3 years), sometimes master's (additional 2 years)
• Prerequisites: Auditions with a high level on the main instrument
• Internship/training: Often includes internships with ensembles and orchestras during studies
• Supplementary courses: Interpretation, music theory, pedagogy
• Self-study: Regular individual practice and participation in master classes

Common benefits and compensations

Musicians in contemporary classical music often have access to union-negotiated pensions, overtime pay, and holiday pay, especially if employed full-time in orchestras or institutions. Freelancers may receive fees for specific projects, per diems during tours, as well as compensation for instrument insurance and further training. Access to practice rooms and instrument servicing is also common.

Competition and challenges

The profession of musicians in contemporary classical music is characterized by high competition, both for permanent positions and temporary assignments. The number of trained musicians often exceeds the number of available jobs, leading many to take on multiple roles or freelance work. Unstable employment and uncertain income are challenges faced, especially early in the career. Success requires both musical skill and the ability to network within the industry. At the same time, the profession offers great opportunities for artistic development and international experiences. Another challenge is the clear gender wage gap, reflecting persistent structural issues within the industry.

Tips for aspiring musicians in contemporary classical music

To succeed as a musician in contemporary classical music, it is important to have strong motivation and self-discipline, as regular and goal-oriented practice is crucial for development. Being proactive and seeking new collaborations, such as participating in festivals and competitions, increases the chances of building a strong network. Flexibility and adaptability are key, as tasks and work environments often vary between projects and ensembles. Good social skills facilitate collaboration with other musicians and help build long-term professional relationships. Finally, patience and perseverance are needed, as establishing oneself can take time and the path to a permanent position or stable income is often long.

Key facts about musicians in contemporary classical music

• Education level: Higher education in music (at least 3 years)
• Work form: Freelance, project employment, or permanent position in orchestra/institution
• Demand: 620 available jobs, large opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Gender differences: Women earn 85 % of what men do
• Special skills: High instrumental proficiency and broad repertoire

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years, a musician in contemporary classical music may have established themselves as a permanent member of an orchestra, reached a soloist position, or developed a niche in chamber music or teaching. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, demand for musicians, singers, and composers is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with significant opportunities for employment nationally. However, the recruitment situation is described as paradoxical – there are both recruitment difficulties and a high proportion of part-time workers or those leaving the profession. Career paths may also include international collaborations, further training as a conductor or music educator, and developing one's own activities in music production or composition.

Frequently asked questions about musicians in contemporary classical music

• What does a musician in contemporary classical music earn?
  - The average salary is 48 300 SEK per month, but wages range between 42,200 SEK and 51,900 SEK depending on experience, gender, and employment type.
• How does one become a musician in contemporary classical music?
  - Most attend a university or conservatory and are admitted through auditions on their main instrument.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Self-discipline, flexibility, social skills, and endurance are particularly important.
• Are there many job opportunities for musicians in contemporary classical music?
  - Yes, there were 620 available jobs during the latest survey, and opportunities are considered plentiful.
• What is the work environment like for musicians in contemporary classical music?
  - The work environment varies between concert halls, studios, and tours, often with irregular hours.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Union-negotiated pensions, overtime pay, holiday pay, and sometimes instrument insurance and further training.
• How large is the gender wage gap?
  - Women earn on average 85 % of what men do in the profession.