Image that illustrates Spelman

Spelman

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 Spelman

Average salary 48 300 kr
Males 51 900 kr
Females 44 200 kr

What does a Violinist do? – Tasks and working environment

A Violinist is a professional musician specializing in folk music, often focusing on traditional instruments such as the violin, nyckelharpa, or accordion. Their work involves performing at concerts, festivals, dance evenings, or private events. The job also includes extensive rehearsals, both individually and in groups, as well as participating in recordings or teaching contexts. The working environment can range from concert halls and cultural centers to smaller stages, schools, or outdoor events. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to different audiences and settings are central to the profession.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for Violinists has been relatively stable but with some variations. In 2022, the average salary was 45,200 SEK per month, followed by a slight decrease to 44 300 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary increased significantly to 48 300 SEK, representing an increase of about 9% from the previous year. This positive trend can be explained by increased demand for musicians in the cultural sector and a greater focus on professional conditions and compensation within the industry. The gender pay gap is notable, with women earning on average 85% of what men do, reflecting challenges with gender equality in the industry.

Violinist salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 48 300 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 42,200 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 51,900 SEK/month
  • Hourly rate: 290 SEK/hour
  • Women’s average salary: 44,200 SEK/month
  • Men’s average salary: 51,900 SEK/month
  • Women earn: 85% of men's salary

Education and qualifications

To work as a Violinist, a combination of formal education and extensive practical experience in folk music is often required. Many have a music-related high school diploma, followed by university or college studies in music, often with a focus on folk or classical music. Self-study and participation in folk music camps or workshops are common, as well as mentorship and apprenticeship with established musicians. Some formal education can be supplemented with courses in pedagogy for those interested in teaching.

  • Music education at high school or folk high school
  • University education in music (3–5 years), often with a focus on folk music
  • Participation in folk music courses and workshops
  • Practical experience and mentorship
  • Pedagogical courses for teaching roles

Many Violinists preserve and develop unique musical traditions that might otherwise be lost. By participating in festivals and collaborating across generations, they contribute to a living cultural heritage and inspire both audiences and young musicians.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Violinists often receive benefits such as travel allowances, per diems during tours, and access to instruments or equipment through employers or clients. Some professionals are also offered opportunities for further training, networking events, and artistic grants. For those employed, pension contributions and insurance may sometimes be included, but the compensation structure can vary greatly depending on whether the work is as a freelancer or an employee.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a Violinist is characterized by high competition, especially for permanent positions within orchestras, institutions, or educational organizations. Many work as freelancers and depend on projects, grants, and seasonal engagements, which can lead to income uncertainty. Challenges also include raising awareness of folk music within the broader music scene and maintaining a gender-equal working environment, as salary differences between men and women are significant. Building networks and continuously developing musically are crucial for success in the industry.

Tips for aspiring Violinists

To succeed as a Violinist, a strong passion for folk music and patience for regular practice are essential, as technical skill is crucial. An open mind and curiosity facilitate exploring different musical traditions and collaborating with other musicians. Being social and networking can open doors to new gigs and collaborations, which are often arranged through personal contacts. Self-discipline is important for self-employment and planning both finances and marketing. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to various working environments and audiences provide additional advantages, while creativity and the ability to inspire others are valued both on stage and in teaching roles.

Key facts about Violinists

  • Average salary: 48 300 SEK/month
  • Salary range: 42,200–51,900 SEK/month
  • Gender difference: Women earn 85% of men
  • Educational path: High school and university education in music
  • Work forms: Freelance, projects, and permanent positions

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a Violinist can develop into an established soloist, a member of professional ensembles, or a leader within folk music groups. Career options also include teaching roles at cultural schools, folk high schools, or music colleges. Some choose to specialize as composers or arrangers, while others become sought after for international collaborations and tours. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for musicians, singers, and composers, job opportunities are expected to be plentiful, although the recruitment situation can be paradoxical, with high competition for permanent positions and shortages of certain specialists. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with approximately 620 job openings in the group.

Frequently asked questions about Violinists

  • What does a Violinist earn?
    - A Violinist has an average salary of 48 300 SEK per month, with an hourly rate of approximately 290 SEK.
  • Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, women earn on average 85% of what men do within the profession.
  • What education is required to become a Violinist?
    - Usually, a high school diploma with a music focus and university studies in music, preferably with an emphasis on folk music.
  • What is the job market like for Violinists?
    - Demand is generally good with about 620 job openings, but competition for permanent positions is high.
  • What tasks does a Violinist perform?
    - Tasks include concerts, teaching, rehearsals, and sometimes composition or arrangements.
  • What benefits are common for Violinists?
    - Benefits include travel allowances, per diems, access to instruments, and opportunities for further training.
  • Are there opportunities for permanent employment?
    - Yes, but many work as freelancers or on a project basis, which involves varying employment types.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Spelman 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 Spelman 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
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 Spelman has the SSYK code 2652, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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