A musician may perform a variety of tasks depending on their area of specialisation.
Musicians may specialise as an:
Classical Musician who works to very high technical levels and develops high levels of ensemble skills. They must develop the ability to adapt to the demands of international conductors and soloists. Classical musicians develop a knowledge of classical, opera and ballet repertoire, and may undertake additional training at music schools overseas.
Composer who creates musical compositions for films, plays, television, concerts and operas. Composers may specialise in one type of music or in compositions for particular instruments and they may write lyrics (words) to accompany the music.
Conductor who conducts instrumental groups such as symphony orchestras and large bands. They can audition and select members of a group and choose the music to accommodate their talents and abilities and to suit the type of performance to be given. Conductors become familiar with the complete musical score, conduct rehearsals, instruct players on their performances and try to make the best use of each instrumentalist's talents. They conduct performances in which they control factors such as balance, rhythm, dynamics and timing to create an effect consistent with their own interpretation of the score.
Ethnomusicologist who is a musician who studies music in its cultural context and seeks to understand the relationship between musical cultures. They may work as composers, performers, lecturers or researchers. They usually work within an academic institution such as a university, exploring, studying, researching and writing scholarly articles on music and musicians. Field work in various regions of the world may be required, where they record music from a particular area, an ethnic group or a particular performing group.
Jazz Musician who is often recognised for their superior skills in improvisation. Their ensemble skills are similar to those required in chamber groups.
Music Arranger who transcribes musical compositions or melodic lines to adapt and modify them or create particular styles for orchestras, bands, choral groups or individuals. People with these skills may proceed to a number of jobs, including music teacher, music director, conductor or record producer.
Music Critic who is employed by major print media publishers to report on the performing arts worldwide. Local areas usually have part-time critics who report regularly on local and visiting artists in the local press.
Musicologist who is a musician with training in the skills required to interpret musical history and style. They generally work as lecturers.
Performing Musician/Instrumentalist who may play one or more instruments in solo recital performances. This may be in accompaniment only, or as a member of orchestras, bands or other musical groups including chamber ensembles. Musicians spend a number of hours each day in private practice to prepare music for rehearsals and performance. They may record and program backing tracks and/or electronic devices that may be used in performance. Musicians may need to listen to and analyse music in either written or recorded form to build their repertoire. They also need to maintain and prepare their instruments for peak performance. They may compose and write music and lyrics, or combine and/or arrange music across a number of musical styles including classical, pop, jazz, folk, country, show music and various forms of dance music.
Vocalist who may work solo or with an accompanist, or permanently or casually with bands, ensembles, orchestras or in concert opera. Popular vocalists develop a repertoire and many specialise in a particular style, or work on stage, radio and television. They may entertain as soloists, perform in a group and/or play an instrument. Vocalists need to train and develop their voice and capacity to sing, as well as develop presentation skills. They need to understand music and be able to work with bands and orchestras.
Musicians must be prepared to work irregular hours and spend long periods practising and rehearsing. Some musicians work in areas unrelated to music to support themselves. Many professional musicians with experience in all styles combine music performance and music teaching careers in Australia.
Personal Requirements:
- musical skills
- stamina to perform at peak level
- self-confidence, motivation, dedication and determination
- able to concentrate for long periods
- mastery of one or more styles of music such as classical, jazz or pop
- flair for entertainment.
Graduates develp generic skills in:
- Creative self expression
- Capacity to analyse and interpret in a dispassionate and objective manner
- Critical thinking and conceptual ability
- Flexibility, adaptibilty and resourcefullness
- Commitment
- Knowledge application, problem solving and decision making
- Computer literacy
- Self motivation, initiative and willingness to learn
- Sell assurance and self promotion skills, personal growth/critical self awareness
- Data acquisition, analysis, research techniques and marshalling facts in support of arguments
- Understanding of cultural differences
- Written expression, communication and linguistic skills
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