New York has the highest employment level for composers.
Music composers produce musical scores, songs and even commercial jingles. This career choice is creative and allows the individual personal expression through music. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people in this field earn between $21,720 to $85,020 annually. Composers work for various companies such as performance art troops, colleges and religious institutions, to name a few. Freelancers or independent artists average at the high end of the pay spectrum. A college education isn't mandatory for many composer positions, but it is required for employment at universities and some companies.
Instructions
1. Learn to competently play at least one musical instrument such as the piano or trumpet.
2. Listen to different types of music. But focus on the genre you want to compose such as jazz or symphonic.
3. Buy composition software or learn write music by hand. Practice music writing daily to finesse this skill.
4. Earn your associate's or bachelor's degree in music or music theory. Take music classes that teach you write music for various instruments such as woodwinds or brass.
5. Become involved in musical production groups in your area and take a position in the musical department. This will strengthen your experience as a music writer.
