How much does a Pianist, classical music make

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  2. Pianist, classical music
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Pianist, classical music

48 300 kr

Musicians, singers and composers

42 200 - 51 900 kr / month

Women earn 85% of what men do.

Kultur, media, design

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Pianist, classical music

Average salary 48 300 kr
Males 51 900 kr
Females 44 200 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 6 Vacant jobs ->

What does a classical music pianist do? – Tasks and work environment

A classical music pianist performs works from various eras, often in concert halls, churches, or at private events. Tasks include interpreting sheet music, practicing, collaborating with other musicians, and sometimes teaching. The environment varies from quiet practice rooms to public stages with different acoustics and atmospheres. The pianist must have good physical endurance and fine motor skills to perform complex pieces with precision and emotion.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a classical music pianist has shown mixed development. In 2022, the average salary was 45,200 SEK per month, then slightly decreased to 44 300 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary increased significantly to 48 300 SEK, representing an almost 9% increase compared to the previous year. This positive trend can be linked to increased demand for classical musicians in public and private contexts, as well as a general strengthening of the cultural sector. At the same time, education level and experience influence salary levels, with more established pianists often earning higher wages.

Classical music pianists often develop a strong sense of detail and expression, which enables them to contribute as music consultants or arrangers beyond their performances.

– statsskuld.se

Classical music pianist salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 48 300 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 42,200 SEK (female with less than 3 years post-secondary education)
  • Highest salary: 51,900 SEK (male, private sector employee)
  • Hourly wage: 290 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
  • Gender differences: Women earn on average 44,200 SEK, which is 85% of men's salary of 51,900 SEK
  • Regional differences: Regional variations exist but are not specified in detail for this profession

Education and qualifications

The educational path for a classical music pianist typically includes formal music studies at university level with a specialization in piano. In addition to technical skills, developing musical expression and stage presence through practice and concerts is important.

  • Formal degrees: Music teacher training or artistic studies at a conservatory, usually 3–5 years
  • Certifications/courses: Specialized piano courses, masterclasses, and workshops
  • Practice/internship: Participation in orchestras, ensembles, or as an accompanist
  • Prerequisites: Good piano skills from previous education or private lessons
  • Self-study/online: Supplementary technical and musical skills via digital platforms
  • Advice for choosing: Select an education with a strong connection to stage performances and mentorship by experienced pianists

Common benefits and compensations

Classical music pianists are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, pension contributions, and sometimes travel reimbursements for tours or concerts. Compensation varies depending on employment type, with permanent positions providing greater security than freelance work. Some employers also provide instruments and access to practice facilities.

Competition and challenges

The classical pianist industry is highly competitive, with many aspiring musicians vying for few permanent positions and concert opportunities. Challenges include unstable income for freelancers and the need for continuous development to stay relevant. The profession also requires great discipline and the ability to handle performance anxiety. Networking and building contacts within the music community are crucial for career success.

Tips for aspiring classical music pianists

To succeed, a strong discipline enabling regular and focused practice is essential, forming the basis for technical development. Patience is also important, as success often requires many years of training and experience. Creativity helps interpret musical works in a personal and expressive way, setting a pianist apart. Being social and open to collaboration is valuable, as many performances occur in ensembles or orchestras. Good stress management also facilitates handling pressure during concerts and auditions.

Key facts about classical music pianists

  • Education level: University or conservatory education (3–5 years)
  • Salary range: 42,200–51,900 SEK/month
  • Work environment: Concert halls, practice rooms, and sometimes private homes
  • Work form: Combination of permanent employment and freelance work
  • Demand: Stable with good job opportunities in the cultural sector

Career paths and future outlook

After some years of experience, classical music pianists can develop into soloists, accompanists, or teachers at music schools and higher education institutions. Some choose to specialize in chamber music or orchestra work. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that demand for musicians, singers, and composers, including pianists, is expected to remain unchanged over five years. Despite recruitment difficulties, there is a relatively large number of job opportunities, offering good prospects for qualified pianists to find work in culture and education.

Frequently asked questions about classical music pianists

  • What does a classical music pianist earn?
    - The average salary is approximately 48 300 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and employment type.
  • What education is required to become a classical music pianist?
    - Usually, a university degree in music with a focus on piano, often 3–5 years.
  • Are there significant gender differences in salary?
    - Yes, women earn on average 85% of men's salaries in the profession.
  • What is the work environment like for a pianist?
    - The environment is usually quiet and controlled, with work in concert halls and practice rooms.
  • What are the future prospects for pianists?
    - They are considered stable with unchanged demand over the next five years.
  • Can one work as a freelance pianist?
    - Yes, many work as freelancers, which offers flexibility but also income uncertainty.
  • What personal qualities are important?
    - Discipline, patience, creativity, and resilience to stress are vital for success in the profession.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-03 15:39:35

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Pianist, classical music is 51900 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a unspecified education. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 44200 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Pianist, classical music is 42200 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 49800 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
35-44 88% 47600 kr 48100 kr
45-54 44100 kr 44900 kr
55-64 96% 46900 kr 48100 kr
65-68 45500 kr 46800 kr
Snitt 85% 47400 kr 48300 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Pianist, classical music has the SSYK code 2652, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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