How much does a Composer make

  1. Salary statistics
  2. Composer
Image that illustrates Composer

Composer

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 Composer

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

What does a composer do? – tasks and work environment

A composer creates and arranges musical works, often commissioned by orchestras, theaters, film and TV productions, or as an independent artist. Tasks include composing new pieces, editing and arranging music, collaborating with musicians, conductors, and producers, and participating in rehearsals and recordings. Many composers work as freelancers, which means their work environment varies—from home studios to professional recording studios and concert halls. Flexibility and project-based work are common, and workload can fluctuate depending on the season and assignments.

Salary development over time

The salary for composers has shown some variation over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,200 SEK per month, which slightly decreased to 44 300 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary increased significantly to 48 300 SEK, representing a rise of about 9% compared to the previous year. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for musical content in digital media and film, as well as greater awareness of copyright royalties. The variation between years also reflects the industry’s project-based nature, where income can vary depending on the number and scope of assignments. The pay gap between genders is noticeable and persists over time, affecting overall development.

Composer salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 48 300 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 42,200 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 51,900 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage (average): 290 SEK
  • Gender differences: Men 51,900 SEK, women 44,200 SEK (women earn 85% of men's salary)

Education and qualifications

To work as a composer, a high artistic education in music composition is often required, but there are also opportunities to establish oneself through self-study and practical experience. Many attend music colleges or universities where they can deepen their knowledge of composition, music theory, and arranging. Internships or participation in masterclasses can be valuable for networking and gaining insight into the profession. Skills in instruments, digital tools, and music production are often necessary.

  • Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's in music composition (3–5 years)
  • Courses and certificates: Composition courses, music theory, digital music production
  • Internships/traineeships: Positions at music institutions, participation in workshops and festivals
  • Prerequisites: Good knowledge of music theory, preferably experience with one or more instruments
  • Self-study: Possible to develop through personal creation and digital training

Being a composer often means working independently, but collaboration with other creatives, musicians, and producers can lead to unexpected artistic breakthroughs. Networking and visibility in the industry are crucial for securing new commissions and developing professionally. Many major works have been created through collaborations that initially seemed unlikely.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Composers can often benefit from royalties from organizations like STIM and other rights organizations, as well as opportunities for grants and project funding, and flexible working conditions. Some employers also offer health insurance, pension contributions, and travel allowances related to assignments. For employed individuals, vacation pay and professional development may be included.

Competition and challenges

The competition in the profession is intense, as the number of trained composers exceeds the number of permanent positions and major assignments. Many work as freelancers and depend on building a strong network and personal profile to secure assignments. The industry is characterized by uncertain income, project-based work, and sometimes long periods without fixed income. The ability to combine artistic integrity with commercial adaptability is crucial. Digitalization and changing media landscapes create new opportunities but also increase the demand for technical skills and self-marketing.

Tips for those who want to become a composer

To succeed as a composer, it’s good to be both creative and persistent, as the path to establishment is often long and requires strong drive. Building a network early by participating in workshops, festivals, and collaborations is wise, as contacts can lead to future assignments. Curiosity and openness to different music styles and techniques make it easier to find your niche and adapt to market needs. Discipline and the ability to work independently are central, especially for freelancers who must organize their own workday. Investing in technical knowledge, such as sound production and digital tools, enhances competitiveness. Sensitivity to feedback and a desire to constantly improve are personal qualities that often distinguish successful composers. Finally, it’s important to showcase your work actively and seek new collaborations and opportunities.

Key facts about composers

  • Average salary: 48 300 SEK/month
  • Salary range: 42,200–51,900 SEK/month
  • Education level: Bachelor's or master's in music composition
  • Work form: Freelance or project-based employment
  • Demand: 620 job openings in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many composers establish themselves with recurring assignments in film, theater, gaming, or classical music. Some progress to become music producers, arrangers, or artistic directors for music projects. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for musicians, singers, and composers, demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years, but job opportunities are considered good. The recruitment situation is paradoxical: although many are educated, it’s difficult to find individuals with the right experience and profile. Digitalization and new media continue to create new fields of work, especially for those who combine musical talent with technical skills.

Frequently asked questions about composers

  • What does a composer earn?
    - The average salary is 48 300 SEK per month, with an hourly rate of approximately 290 SEK.
  • Are there large salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, men earn an average of 51,900 SEK while women earn 44,200 SEK, which is 85% of men's salaries.
  • What education is required to become a composer?
    - Usually, a bachelor's or master's degree in music composition is required, but self-study and practical experience are also important.
  • What does the job market look like for composers?
    - There are about 620 job openings in the profession, and demand is expected to be unchanged in the coming years.
  • What are the tasks of a composer?
    - Tasks include composing and arranging music, collaborating with musicians and producers, and participating in rehearsals and recordings.
  • What is the highest and lowest salary for a composer?
    - The highest salary is 51,900 SEK and the lowest is 42,200 SEK per month.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-08 07:38:35

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

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