Troubadour

What does a trubadur do? – Tasks and work environment

A trubadur works by performing musical numbers, often in the form of singing and guitar playing, at restaurants, bars, hotels, private events, and festivals. Tasks include interpreting others’ songs and performing original material, as well as adapting the repertoire to the audience and occasion. The work often involves evening and weekend hours, and the work environment can range from intimate cafes to large stages. Trubadurs are also responsible for their own equipment, sound tech, and sometimes marketing and booking their gigs.

Salary development over time

The salary for a trubadur has shown some fluctuations over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,200 SEK per month, followed by a slight decrease to 44 300 during 2023. In 2024, however, the salary increased sharply to 48 300, a rise of approximately 9% compared to the previous year. This positive trend can be attributed to increased demand for live music and a growing interest in personal music events. Competition for experienced trubadurs has also contributed to rising salary levels, especially in larger cities and during peak seasons. Gender differences, however, remain, affecting the overall average for the profession.

Trubadur salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 48 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,200 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 51,900 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage (average): 290 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 85% of what men do (44,200 SEK vs 51,900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Greater variation in big cities compared to rural areas, but generally higher salaries in areas with large entertainment options

Education and qualifications

To work as a trubadur, no formal education is required, but many have some form of musical training or have developed their skills through self-study and practical experience. The most important qualities are musical talent, stage presence, and a broad repertoire. Some choose to supplement with courses in sound engineering or marketing to increase employability and independence.

• High school diploma: Artistic program with a music specialization (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Folk high school, music academy, or shorter courses
• Certifications: Not mandatory but can be advantageous in sound engineering
• Practical experience: Gigs at local venues, open mics, or as an opening act
• Self-study: Common among self-taught musicians via online courses and tutorials

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits for trubadurs vary greatly depending on employment type. Freelancers often receive pay per performance, while permanent positions can include health insurance, holiday pay, and pension contributions. Sometimes travel allowances and opportunities for further training are also offered, especially by larger organizers or hotel chains.

Competition and challenges

The market for trubadurs is dynamic and characterized by high competition, especially in big cities and popular tourist areas. Many gigs are temporary and require performers to constantly seek new bookings and build relationships with organizers. The difficulty of securing a steady income and managing bookings, marketing, and technical aspects independently are common challenges. However, there are good opportunities for driven individuals with a strong stage presence.

Tips for aspiring trubadur

To succeed as a trubadur, it is beneficial to combine musical talent with perseverance and social skills. Regular practice and building a broad repertoire increase chances of recurring gigs. Creativity is a valuable asset, especially when creating own interpretations of popular songs or original material. Flexibility and adaptability to different audiences and environments, as well as taking initiative for new collaborations, are important. Maintaining a professional attitude towards organizers and audiences enhances the chances of repeat bookings. Active networking and presence on social media facilitate marketing and make it easier to find new opportunities in the industry.

Key facts about Trubadur

• Salary range: 42,200–51,900 SEK/month
• Education level: Often self-taught or artistic high school
• Work environment: Varies, often evenings and weekends
• Demand: 620 available jobs within the profession
• Typical employment type: Freelance or project-based

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many trubadurs have built a stable network and can take on larger and more lucrative assignments, such as corporate events or festival performances. It is also common to move into roles as songwriters, music producers, or start their own business within the music industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for musicians, singers, and composers – including trubadurs – demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years, with good opportunities but also high competition. The recruitment situation is characterized by both recruitment difficulties and high mobility within the profession, meaning driven and skilled trubadurs have good chances for continued career development.

Common questions about Trubadur

• What is the average salary of a Trubadur?
  - A trubadur has an average monthly salary of 48 300.
• How large is the salary difference between men and women?
  - Men earn on average 51,900 SEK while women earn 44,200 SEK, which means women earn 85% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a trubadur?
  - No formal education is required, but many have artistic high school education or are self-taught.
• What does the job market look like for trubadurs?
  - There are 620 available jobs in the profession, and demand is expected to remain unchanged moving forward.
• What is the typical hourly wage for a trubadur?
  - The average hourly wage is 290 SEK.
• What are common work environments?
  - Trubadurs often work in restaurants, bars, private events, and festivals, usually during evenings and weekends.
• Are there regional differences in salary?
  - Yes, salaries are generally higher in big cities and areas with a large entertainment selection compared to rural areas.