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Photo by David Barden Hailing from the North-West of England, michael webster is a singer-songwriter inspired by a multitude of artists, ranging from the folk legends such as Bob Dylan and Neil You…

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Case Study - Mary Spender: How to start making money as a musician

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Case Study - Mary Spender: How to start making money as a musician

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UK Music is putting together a list of music education resources that we hope you find helpful, whether you are homeschooling children, trying to teach a class, or working on a school or university…

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Edinburgh college guide to completing a Progression Application

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We are the performing arts and entertainment trade union | Equity

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We’re made up of 50,000 performers and creative practitioners. Together we push for better pay, terms and conditions in the workplace. We’re there for our members when they face challenges too - with advice, support and representation.

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For people thinking about starting a business or becoming self-employed.

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RESOURCES SMIA Workshops: Culture Organisations and Venues Funding Application Advice I Work In Music: Julia Rodríguez SMIA Workshops: Creating Engaging Video Content For Music Projects From Home SMIA Workshops: Understanding and Utilising Data for Music Projects SMIA Workshops: Maintaining a Healthy Work/Life Balance During the Coronavirus Crisis I Work In Music: Vic Galloway I Work...

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Looking for resources and support to help you strengthen your business?

Our free Strengthen Your Business tool gives you a personalised dashboard of resources. Plus, we'll put you in contact with your nearest Business Gateway office if you'd like more advice.

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Whatever stage your business is at, Business Gateway offers advice, professional resources and support to help, including webinars, workshops, events and news.

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Since 1882, the ISM has been dedicated to promoting the importance of music and supporting those working in the music profession.

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Business Gateway - starting your own business

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Business Gateway - starting your own business

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UK Music has created a UK Music Careers Information Pack as a guide for young people who want to get into the music industry.

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https://www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk/courses/explore-subject-areas/music-and-sound-production

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3D Animation is a diverse, immersive and forward-thinking course designed to develop your creative potential. You will e…

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Whether you dream of becoming a professional singer, songwriter, musician, record producer or sound technician, there are many careers on offer in the vast UK music industry

Before the coronavirus pandemic, the UK music industry was reported to be worth £5.8billion to the economy in 2019, according to a study by UK Music. Data released by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport also showed that the music, performing and visual arts sector employed an estimated 315,000 people during this year.

As COVID-19 has had such a devastating effect on the music industry since March 2020 - due to the closure of venues and social distancing restrictions - it will need time before it's ready to resume its high rate of growth.

However, while it's undoubtedly been a tough time for those working in the industry, once things start opening up again, those with the talent, tenacity and drive to forge music careers should still have cause to be optimistic about the future.

In terms of career options, singers and musicians may be the most visible roles, but you could carve out a career in areas including performing, songwriting, composing, live music entertainment, music education, music production, artist management, marketing and PR or music journalism.

Social media has opened up a route that wasn't available a decade ago. Singers and musicians are now being signed after being spotted on YouTube. And music journalists are securing jobs off the back of blogging.

However, you still need qualifications and work experience, whether that's a degree, apprenticeship or internship.

Music degrees

With outstanding talent as a singer, songwriter, dancer or musician you may be able to enter the industry directly - whereas if you're interested in business, educational or technical jobs you'll likely need a degree.

However, in this competitive industry, no matter your end goal, studying for a music degree can be beneficial in more ways than one. Courses give you in-depth practical and theoretical knowledge and the chance to develop transferrable skills, make industry contacts and find industry work placements. Discover what you can do with a music degree.

A degree in music is usually referred to as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Music (BMus), as there's no clear distinction between the two. Check the details of individual courses carefully to ensure they match what you're looking for. Some universities run performance-focused degrees while others are more academic.

At undergraduate level you can also study more specific subjects such as:

composition

digital music

live events production

popular music performance

media and communication (music industries)

music business

music journalism

music management

music production

music technology

musical theatre

songwriting

sound engineering

sound technology

stage management.

When it comes to choosing where to study, it's useful to check subject-specific rankings and league tables. You'll find that the best performers are a mix of traditional universities and specialist institutions, such as the Royal College of Music (RCM), and Guildhall School of Music and Drama. These provide different study environments and deciding which you prefer is another important thing to think about as you do your research.

You'll usually need good passes at GCSE and a set number of UCAS points. Many courses ask for an A-level in music, or alternatively Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) Grade 5 in Music Theory and Grade 8 in Performance. Depending on the course, you may also need to demonstrate performance skills. Entry requirements vary so always check with your selected university.

Meanwhile, there are a variety of postgraduate options to choose from, with taught and research-based options available. You can study for a Masters in:

composition

composition of music for film and television

community music

electronic and computer music

history of art and history of music

music

music education

music for the moving image

music production

music psychology

music and sonic media

musical theatre

performance.

Search for postgraduate courses in music.

Get personalised alerts and shortlist your favourite jobs and courses for easy decision-making

Music jobs

While music jobs are undoubtedly competitive, they're by no means out of reach for those with the right qualifications and experience. Here are some of the music jobs you can do.

A&R (artists and repertoire) manager - as a form of talent agent you'll be responsible for finding fresh talent, signing them up to record labels and overseeing the completion of recordings. You'll help new artists develop and grow and to do this you'll need a solid understanding of the music scene and strong business skills.

Concert promoter - you'll need a love of live music and excellent communication skills. It's your job to spread the word about live music events and ensure that this results in strong ticket sales. You'll liaise with agents/artist managers, recording artists and club/concert venues to book shows, publicise events to media and set up advertising campaigns.

Music magazine journalist - exceptional writing skills and an interest in all things music are a must. You'll report on music industry news, interview artists and musicians, and review albums and concerts - either for a specialist print or online publication or the music section of a general news outlet.

Music producer - producers write, arrange, produce and record songs for artists or for their own personal projects. The hours can be long and you'll spend the majority of your time in a studio setting. You'll collaborate with recording artists, recording/sound engineers, session musicians and singers, as well as A&R managers and record company executives.

You could also become a:

Portfolio careers are common in the music business. This means having several streams of income at the same time, often combining jobs with freelance work. For example, session musicians could also make money as music teachers, and with the right knowledge and experience DJs and recording engineers can move into music production. Concert promoters can move into marketing and PR roles. Read more about putting together a creative portfolio.

Industry internships

To stand out from the crowd and demonstrate your passion and dedication to employers, work experience and internships are essential.

Wherever possible, try to gain relevant experience - for example, in a recording studio for aspiring music producers or recording engineers, or at a record label if you're aiming to get into A&R, artist management or marketing and PR. However, keep in mind that any music-related experience will be useful.

A number of organisations provide music internships, but beware of unpaid opportunities. Internships should pay at least the National Minimum Wage (NMW) - see GOV.UK.

Major music companies such as Sony Music, Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group all offer industry placements or internships in a variety of functions such as administration, marketing, promotions, digital, communication and artist relations and commercial sales.

If you've set your sights on a career as a music journalist, look for internship opportunities at music magazines, blogs and websites. Get in touch with your local radio station if you'd like to become a radio producer or DJ.

Any volunteering experience can be incredibly beneficial. If you'd like to get into teaching, volunteer at a school or youth club and teach young people how to play an instrument. If you dream of becoming a DJ, create your own set and volunteer at local club nights. For more general experience, look into volunteering at music festivals, get a part-time job in a record shop or start your own music blog. Do your research to find out if there are any music-related events happening in your community at which you could lend a hand.

Internships and voluntary work are an excellent way to develop your knowledge and skills, learn about the industry and make useful contacts. Including it on your CV shows employers that you're passionate, resourceful, committed and able to use your initiative.

Music apprenticeships

The apprenticeship route is a great alternative to university study. Working towards an apprenticeship enables you to gain industry qualifications while actually doing the job and earning a wage. To find out more about what they involve, see what is an apprenticeship?

Music apprenticeships are becoming more widespread but you'll still need to do your research to uncover opportunities. Record companies, talent agencies and PR agencies all offer apprenticeship schemes in the music business. You can work in international promotions, communications, music publishing, marketing and business administration. You can also work as a music assistant or digital media apprentice.

The BRITs Apprentice Scheme, created by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) and funded by the BRIT Awards, gives ten people from England and Wales the unique opportunity to work at a top independent record label or music company. Apprentices receive specialist training in either business administration or digital marketing and will also get to work at the BRIT Awards. The scheme is open to those aged 18 or over and lasts for 14 months.

To search for music apprenticeships, see:

You can also read about how to apply for an apprenticeship.

Find out more

Written by Daniel Higginbotham, Editor

Prospects · February 2021

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Whether you dream of becoming a professional singer, songwriter, musician, record producer or sound technician, there are many careers on offer in the vast UK music industry Before the coronavirus pandemic, the UK music industry was reported to be worth £5.8billion to the economy in 2019, according to a study by UK Music.

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Goodmoves - charity and voluntary sector recruitment

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© 2020. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation. Charity registered in Scotland SC003558. Registered office Mansfield Traquair Centre, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh EH3 6BB.

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While careers in the creative industries are wide ranging, you'll need more than just talent to successfully land your first role - consider the following routes to getting a creative job

Study for a creative degree

Most jobs in the creative industries are held by those with a degree. If you do decide to go down this path, you'll be able to choose from a huge range of undergraduate courses.

From graphic and fashion design to museum studies, art administration, production design, illustration and performing arts, there are options for everyone.

For art and design roles, look for a practical degree in your area of interest, such as creative pattern cutting, interior design, video game design or photography. Practical programmes give you the hands-on experience that employers look for.

For performing arts roles, such as acting and dancing, work experience is just as important as qualifications. However, a degree from an established, industry-recognised drama or dance school can significantly increase your chances of employment. Discover the 7 skills for a successful career in performing arts.

For museum and art gallery jobs, a degree in art history, museum studies or heritage studies is desirable. A subject relevant to museum or gallery collections will also be beneficial, such as fine art, history or photography. Find out how to get into museum conservation.

While postgraduate qualifications aren't always necessary, they can increase your knowledge and understanding, help you to gain industry contacts and give you an edge when trying to stand out in a crowd.

Search postgraduate courses in creative arts.

For more information on relevant qualifications, see our creative arts and design job profiles.

Consider a creative internship

Graduate employers in the creative industries require candidates with:

imaginative ideas and ability

strong communication skills - not only useful in your day-to-day work, but also invaluable when networking and building contacts

the ability to work as part of a team

effective planning, organisation and time management skills - as the majority of work in the creative industries is project-based and deadline-driven, you'll need to stay organised to manage your workload

self-discipline and stamina to cope with long hours

resilience and determination - the industry is highly competitive and you'll need to cope with setbacks

a good eye for detail in art and design roles

the flexibility to work on multiple projects

commercial awareness and business orientation

digital and IT skills

manual dexterity

practical and technical skills, including associated software such as Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop and CAD

marketing, administrative and business skills - especially if you're self-employed.

Work experience, internships and voluntary work can help you to learn and develop these skills and in many cases these are the usual routes into employment in this sector. Such opportunities offer an insight into industry practices and enable you to make contacts and gain confidence. Having a period of work experience, voluntary work or a stint as an intern under your belt also helps you stand out to potential employers.

To find design experience, you may need to make speculative enquiries. If you want to get into the industry consider taking part in design competitions. Design and Art Direction (D&AD) offers the New Blood Awards for those aged 18 or over and enrolled on a relevant higher education course, plus recent graduates.

For experience in museum settings look to the Victoria and Albert (V&A) Museum, London. The Natural History Museum also runs short-term 'visiteering' schemes, and the Science Museum provides volunteering opportunities enabling you to experience working at a museum for a day.

If you want to work in the fashion industry, experience in fashion retail is valuable. You can learn about the styles, looks and brands customers prefer.

Online fashion retailer ASOS takes on fashion interns over a one-year period in a number of functions including garment technology, design and pattern cutting - see ASOS internships.

A variety of fashion-related internships are also advertised on Fashion United. Attending exhibitions and events, such as London Fashion Week would also provide invaluable experience. Find out more about the 5 ways to get into fashion design.

For students and graduates from ethnic minority groups, Creative Access provides internship opportunities across advertising, publishing, film, museums, music, television and theatre.

To find work placements and internships, search for creative arts and design work experience.

Secure a creative apprenticeship

While the majority of creative professionals enter the sector with a degree, the number of creative and art apprenticeships is increasing.

You can now learn your trade while earning a wage in areas such as:

animation

costume and wardrobe

creative and digital media

fashion and textiles

graphic design

hair and make-up

interior design

jewellery design/making

photography

publishing

visual effects.

Creative apprenticeship opportunities span all available levels from intermediate (Level 2) through to degree (Level 7) standard. Discover more about entry requirements, potential salaries and how to apply for apprenticeships.

Search for creative graduate jobs

The creative industries are highly competitive and jobs are not always formally advertised. While possessing the right qualifications and work experience will go a long way to helping you secure your first job, you'll need to put yourself out there through networking opportunities to get noticed. Having the confidence to market yourself is very important.

Joining professional bodies relevant to your field will help you keep up to date with networking events, conferences and workshops - all useful opportunities to meet industry professionals and promote your skills.

Being active on Twitter and LinkedIn enables you to follow and connect with industry professionals and keep an ear to the ground for suitable vacancies - see how effective this can be at social media and job hunting.

Blogging is also a useful way for creative types to demonstrate their talent for content creation, design and crafting. Attending fashion shows, art/museum exhibitions or taking part in design competitions are other great ways to meet like-minded people.

Graduate schemes are not as common in creative arts and design as in other sectors. However, some large organisations - such as Harrods, Marks & Spencer and Jaguar Land Rover - offer graduate schemes in design. Museums sometimes offer traineeships for assistant curators.

Jobs are advertised on university careers service vacancy lists. The University of the Arts London's (UAL) jobs and internships website Creative Opportunities is particularly useful. In addition, you can find vacancies on company websites and through organisations such as Arts Council England.

You'll typically need a portfolio of work to demonstrate your skills and abilities to potential employers. Find out more about putting together a creative portfolio.

Search graduate jobs in creative arts and design.

Current jobs in creative arts and design

Find out which employers in the creative arts and design sector are recruiting now and apply for your ideal role.
View more creative arts and design jobs
Getting a creative job without experience

Having some relevant work experience alongside your qualifications is an important part of preparing for a creative career - but don't discount your experience in other areas of work, as this will have developed a range of transferable skills.

Many of the qualities considered important in creative jobs can be gained through other roles. Be sure to emphasise any of the following in your applications:

You'll also need to build a portfolio of work to demonstrate your talent to employers. For example, you could start a YouTube channel, podcast or blog about your chosen area of interest. For ideas, see our 5 tips for getting media work experience.

You can also volunteer and enter competitions that give you the chance to showcase your creative skills. It's a good idea use social media to network and find out about other opportunities to get involved.

Find out more

Written by Daniel Higginbotham, Editor

Prospects · February 2021

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While careers in the creative industries are wide ranging, you'll need more than just talent to successfully land your first role - consider the following routes to getting a creative job Most jobs in the creative industries are held by those with a degree.

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Music internships in the UK are a great way of kickstarting your career in the music industry. You'll be able to try different areas and roles, whether that's production, songwriting or PR, for example. You'll also be able to build great networks in an industry that can be a little tough to break into. The UK is also pretty exciting when it comes to music, so who wouldn't want to work in an industry that produced icons like The Beatles, Adele, Elton John, and more.

But what's the real scoop on these music internships? Are they just about fetching fancy lattes for studio bigwigs, or is there more to the story? Let's dive into the heart of the British music scene and find out why grabbing one of these internships might just be the best decision you'll ever make - second only to your choice of favourite Beatles song, of course. Whether it's contributing to the production of new music, assisting in the organisation of live events, or learning the intricacies of music promotion, a music internship in the UK is a chance to develop skills, build connections, and gain invaluable insights into one of the world's most dynamic and exciting industries.

What are music internships?

Imagine you're a DJ, and you've just been handed the controls to the biggest sound system you've ever seen. That's what stepping into a music internship feels like. It's your chance to mix and mingle with the tracks of the industry, adding your unique beat to the rhythm of the music world.

Music internships are your behind-the-scenes pass to the industry. They're where theory meets practice, where you'll learn to harmonise your academic knowledge with the pulsating reality of the music business. It's not just about sitting in a studio, nodding along to tracks (though there's plenty of that too). It's about getting your hands dirty in the world of music production, event management, marketing, and more. You'll be doing everything from stringing guitar cables to brainstorming marketing campaigns for the next big hit. Think of it as your own personal music festival, where every task is a different stage, and you're the headlining act.

Why do a music internship in the UK?

Now, why choose the UK, you ask? Well, it's like asking why choose fish and chips - some things are just meant to be. The UK's music scene is as legendary as a double-decker bus, as iconic as the Queen's Guard. This is the land where music history has been written and rewritten, where every street corner has a story, and every pub has seen the beginnings of a band.

Pursuing a music internship in the UK is like getting a front-row seat at the greatest show on earth. You'll be walking the same streets as the greats, breathing in the same creative air that fuelled generations of musicians. From the historic recording studios of London to the vibrant live music scene in Manchester, from the grassroots clubs in Bristol to the legendary festivals scattered across the countryside - the UK is a mosaic of musical opportunities.

But it's not just about basking in the glory of the past. The UK music industry is a dynamic beast, constantly evolving and embracing new trends. It's a place where tradition meets innovation, where you can learn the time-honoured principles of music production one day and the latest digital marketing strategies the next. In the UK, music isn't just a cultural artefact; it's a living, breathing, ever-changing phenomenon. And you could be right in the middle of it all, soaking it up, learning, growing, and perhaps even contributing to the next big wave in the world of music.

Types of music internships

The world of music internships is as varied as a Spotify playlist. Let's hit shuffle and see what plays.

Studio internships

Ever fantasised about where the musical magic is conjured up? Studio internships are your Hogwarts. In these internships, you're in the heart of music production, surrounded by the latest technology and some of the most talented people in the industry. You might be setting up equipment, sitting in on recording sessions, or even assisting with mixing and mastering tracks. It's a hands-on experience where you learn the nuts and bolts of what goes into making a song. And who knows? You might just rub shoulders with some of the music industry's wizards - the producers and artists who create chart-topping hits.

Live event management internships

If orchestrating a festival sounds more appealing than playing in one, these internships are your backstage pass. Here, you dive into the exhilarating world of live music. These internships can involve everything from planning and logistics to artist liaison and stage management. You'll learn how to turn a creative vision into a live show, dealing with everything from venue selection to sound engineering. It's a fast-paced, dynamic environment where you'll see first-hand how concerts and festivals are brought to life.

Music marketing and PR internships

In a world where a tweet can make or break a career, these internships teach you the wizardry of making a band famous - and keeping them that way. In music marketing and PR internships, you're at the forefront of promoting artists and music releases. This could involve crafting press releases, developing social media strategies, or even organising promotional events. You'll learn how to catch the public's eye and ear, building buzz around new music and maintaining an artist's public image. It's a blend of creativity and strategy, perfect for those who love both music and the art of communication.

Finding the right internship

Finding the right internship is like finding the perfect rhythm - it might take some time, but when you get it, it's pure harmony. It's important to consider what aspect of the music industry excites you the most and what skills you want to develop. Research different companies and studios to understand their work culture and the type of projects they handle. Remember, the right internship should align with your career goals and provide you with the opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.

Where to look for music internships

Navigating the jungle of opportunities requires a keen eye and a bit of strategy. Start by checking out the websites of music companies, studios, and festivals for internship listings. Networking is also key - attend music events, workshops, and seminars to meet industry professionals. Don't overlook social media and online job platforms, as many opportunities are advertised there. University career services can also be a valuable resource, offering guidance and potentially exclusive internship opportunities. Remember, persistence and enthusiasm are your best allies in finding an internship that strikes the right chord with your aspirations.

Websites to find music internships

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Looking for a way to kickstart your music career? Music internships can help you build up networks and introduce you to the industry.

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Find an apprenticeship vacancy

Employers

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We'll help you find the right fit for your business and support you with the costs. You'll get the skills you need for the growth you want.

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What is a digital portfolio for students?

There are many different types of digital portfolios that you can create. These can range from a video showreel to a photography and graphic design portfolio. These are all areas where you can showcase your talents and past works whether that is from an internship or work that has been created during your time at university.

Digital portfolios are usually used by students who are aiming at getting into a creative or online field, for example as a graphic designer or web developer.

The Importance of Online Portfolios for Students

A student portfolio is important in many ways as it's a professional way to showcase your work and share expertise with others. It's also a great way to make a first impression to potential employers and can help them find out more about you. It shows that you're more than just your resume. Before moving to the online portfolio, students would have to create a physical portfolio and take it with them to potential job interviews and internships. Having an online portfolio makes it easier and more accessible for a wide range of people to view work.

How to Create an Online Student Portfolio

Creating an online portfolio is easy and doesn't have to be time consuming. On Createxplore, it's simply a case of , filling in a few details about yourself, uploading your previous work and you're done! Whether your skills fall under the category of registering Digital Marketing, Graphic Design, Video & Animation, Photography, Music & Audio or something else creative, Createxplore is the perfect place to showcase your talents. An online portfolio you can easily share with potential employers. Not only that, but once you're registered with Createxplore, you can then find real world projects to finesse your skills and add to your student portfolio!

5 Tips When Making an Online Student Portfolio

When creating a portfolio you'll need to make sure that what you include is relevant to what you're trying to portray about yourself and what job role you're potentially going for.

1) Think about what should and what shouldn't be included - it might be tempting to add everything that you've ever done in your portfolio but is it really necessary? It's important to set aside some time and think about the work that you want to showcase and the work that you don't.

2) Select only the strongest pieces - put your pieces that you're most proud of or those that have got you some strong feedback in your portfolio and leave those that didn't get the reaction you wanted out.

3) Make it unique and creative - your work is creative and unique in its own right so you want to make sure your portfolio is the same as your work - creative and unique just like you.

4) Vary your work - Try and cover all areas of your creative skillset that might be relevant to potential employers

5) How much do you want to include? - Decide how much you want to include in your portfolio. This could be 10 pieces or a 100. Think about how this represents you and your talent.

How do you maintain a student portfolio?

Maintaining your portfolio means that you need to keep updating it with new content and inputting new reflections on recent and past works. If past work doesn't fit with the angle you're taking your portfolio then you need to remove it. Portfolios are generally a record of progression so as you progress throughout school or work it's important that your portfolio reflects that. Set yourself a target of updating your portfolio either once a week, bi-weekly or monthly this way it stays relevant and fresh.

Createxplore is a great place to create your student portfolio as well as finding opportunities to expand it all whilst providing support for small businesses and charities alike. today to create your free profile.

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Create a Free Student Online Portfolio Today | Createxplore

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There are many different types of digital portfolios that you can create. These can range from a video showreel to a photography and graphic design portfolio. These are all areas where you can showcase your talents and past works whether that is from an internship or work that has been created during your time at university.

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2024 internship programme opens for applications - Sony Music UK

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Sony Music's internship programme offers the chance to gain incredible experience working at the heart of one of the UK's most successful major labels.

With opportunities available in Marketing, Promotions, PR, Social Media, Streaming, Audience Development and more, we are looking for the best future business talent out there.

Our internships are paid, 12-month, full-time roles, based in London and working with labels including Columbia Records, RCA, Since '93, Syco, Ministry of Sound, Black Butter, Relentless Records, Insanity and our 4th Floor Creative team. The call for applications opens in July.

Interested? Stay tuned for more information about how to apply for our 2020 programme.

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Sony Music's internship programme offers the chance to gain incredible experience working at the heart of one of the UK's most successful major labels. With opportunities available in Marketing, Promotions, PR, Social Media, Streaming, Audience Development and more, we are looking for the best future business talent out there.

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We are committed to developing and growing a worldclass Work-based Learning system in Scotland.

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Universal Music Group – United Kingdom (umusiccareers.com)

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We are the global market leader in music-based entertainment, with wholly owned operations in 60 territories, working across recording, publishing, merchandising and artist management. Just as we have the most talented recording artists and songwriters in the world, we also have the most talented employees and are proud to be an employer of choice. We know that an organization is only as good as its employees so Universal Music Group continues to seek out the best. If you live for music, value innovation, thrive in creative environments and want to be part of an exciting culture then we encourage you to apply for one of our openings or join our talent community. Please click here to be taken to Universal Music's Careers website.

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We are the global market leader in music-based entertainment, with wholly owned operations in 60 territories, working across recording, publishing, merchandising and artist management. Just as we have the most talented recording artists and songwriters in the world, we also have the most talented employees and are proud to be an employer of choice.

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508 CREATIVE OPPORTUNITIES UPLOADED BY SCOTLAND'S CREATIVE PEOPLE

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Discover what opportunities are out there

Find more than 30,000 jobs, courses, apprenticeships and volunteering options all in one place with the Opportunity Finder. The Young Person's Guarantee aims to connect every 16 to 24 year old in Scotland to an opportunity.

Explore opportunities

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Find more than 30,000 jobs, courses, apprenticeships and volunteering options all in one place with the Opportunity Finder. The Young Person's Guarantee aims to connect every 16 to 24 year old in Scotland to an opportunity. Explore opportunities

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Planit : Job Profiles : Musician - Popular Music

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Find Music Jobs in the UK - Apply Today on music-jobs.com/uk

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Apply for the Top Verified Music jobs on Music Jobs UK. Learn more about the music careers available and what skills you need to work in the music industry. Trusted Companies post every day new Music Vacancies.

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Musician Jobs, Gigs & Auditions | Entertainers Worldwide Jobs

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Musicians Wanted Worldwide - Find Musician Jobs, Paid Musician Gigs & Musician Auditions with the World’s #1 Performer Jobs Site - EntertainersWorldwideJobs.com!

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Find the latest Music Jobs in the UK on The Mandy Network. Explore opportunities in London and beyond for musicians, from freelance gigs to music production roles.

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Classical Music Jobs, Courses, Competitions & Instrument Sales

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Find Classical Music Jobs, Courses, Competitions, Instrument Sales & Musicians at musicalchairs - for classical music professionals.

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Find job vacancies in the Scottish music industry here.

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The Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) wants to recruit a dynamic, driven, dedicated person to lead the company. As challenges for the music industry continue to evolve, the SMIA needs someone to lead our executive team and work with our...
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With the recent announcement of the Creative Scotland 'Cultural Organisations & Venues Fund' the SMIA presents a workshop with Jennifer...

You need to be a member of the SMIA and be logged in to view this content. We have a range of flexible membership packages, which start with Basic Membership, which is free.
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The SMIA has had an active role in lobbying for music industry support, making recommendations and negotiating on the details of their criteria...
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Creative Scotland today publishes details of the Scottish Government's Culture Organisations and Venues Recovery Fund, which forms part of the £31.5m emergency funding for culture announced by the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, on 28 August...
(Read More)

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The Scottish Music Industry Association (SMIA) wants to recruit a dynamic, driven, dedicated person to lead the company. As challenges for the music industry continue to evolve, the SMIA needs someone to lead our executive team and work with our...

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Scotland's leading organisation creating music making opportunities for children and adults with disabilities and additional support needs

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Helping you search for Scottish Local Government Jobs. The national shared recruitment portal for Scotland's 32 local authorities and public sector bodies.

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Starting your career

Choosing subjects at school

To get on a course that could lead to a career as a music therapist, useful subjects include:

Work placements and volunteering

You may find it helpful to get some experience of working in healthcare by doing a work placement. There may also be opportunities to volunteer. This could help you when applying to university, college, or a new job with NHSScotland.

Apprenticeships
Foundation Apprenticeships
Start your journey to becoming a music therapist by taking a relevant Foundation Apprenticeship. Find out more about the Foundation Apprenticeship in Social Services and Healthcare.

University study

To become a music therapist, you'll need to complete a relevant postgraduate degree programme.

To get on to the course, you'll likely need an undergraduate degree in Music. However, you might also be considered if you have a lot of music experience along with a degree in:

Widening participation supports adult learners who want to go to university. If you're an adult with few or no qualifications, you can get into higher education through the Scottish Widening Access Programme (SWAP). Many universities also provide access programmes to help you gain the degree entry qualifications you need.

In Scotland, you can do a postgraduate programme in Music Therapy at Queen Margaret University. This pre-registration programme takes 2 years full-time.

For more information on related further and higher education courses, search My World of Work.

The role

As a music therapist, you will use a variety of musical instruments and styles to help people with:

emotional or mental health problems

life-limiting conditions

physical illness

You'll work with individuals or groups of people, depending on the needs of the person.

What you'll do

Some of the typical tasks of a music therapist include:

helping people to develop insights into personal and social issues

enabling people to communicate and interact with others in different ways

providing opportunities for people to learn new skills or new ways of thinking and behaving

writing reports to record therapeutic activities and document client progress

Top skills

You'll need these skills:

creativity

communication

caring

teamwork

building relationships with people

persuading and motivating people

Who you'll work with

Music therapists work with other healthcare, social services, and education professionals, including:

psychologists

nurses

healthcare support workers

social workers

teachers

art therapists

dramatherapists

Working environment

You could work in:

Useful information

To work as a music therapist in NHSScotland, you'll need to:

Did you know?

Music therapy has been a regulated healthcare profession since 1999. There are more than 4,400 registered arts therapists in the UK including art, drama, and music therapists.

Learning and development

During your career, you'll be expected to keep your skills and knowledge up to date through Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

The British Association for Music Therapy (BAMT) provides information about relevant:

Career progression

You may choose to specialise by working with specific client groups, such as:

children and young people

older people

offenders

You could also decide to become a specialist in a particular area, such as neuro-disability or palliative care.

As an experienced practitioner, you could become a senior or consultant music therapist, managing the work of a team of therapists.

Your progression could include becoming the head of an arts therapy department. In this role, you'll be coordinating the work of therapists from other disciplines such as dramatherapy or art therapy.

In more senior roles, there may also be opportunities to train other music therapists.

Professional bodies

Once you've become a qualified music therapist, you can become a member of:

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Music Therapist | Allied Health Professions | NHSScotland Careers

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To get on a course that could lead to a career as a music therapist, useful subjects include: You may find it helpful to get some experience of working in healthcare by doing a work placement. There may also be opportunities to volunteer.

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Goodmoves - charity and voluntary sector recruitment

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© 2020. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation. Charity registered in Scotland SC003558. Registered office Mansfield Traquair Centre, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh EH3 6BB.

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The Arts Jobs list details current vacancies and opportunities in the arts community, and Arts News details arts events, news and press releases. Both mailing lists are generated entirely by Arts Jobs and Arts News members.

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Use Guardian Jobs to kick start an inspiring music career. Find the latest quality music jobs on Guardian Jobs.

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Find Music Jobs in the UK - Apply Today on music-jobs.com/uk

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Apply for the Top Verified Music jobs on Music Jobs UK. Learn more about the music careers available and what skills you need to work in the music industry. Trusted Companies post every day new Music Vacancies.

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Music Week brings you the latest news, interviews and opinions from the music industry.

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Find the latest music education jobs in the UK. Voluntary & paid music jobs for instrumental tutors, classroom teachers & other music education roles.

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Related information

Advertising is free to ABO members. If you wish to upload a new job advert, please log in and complete the online form. Your advert will then be reviewed and published within 24 hours. If you are not a member and wish to advertise, please contact emily@abo.org.uk.

Annual Conference

The next ABO conference will take place in Glasgow from 9 - 11 February 2022.

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Advertising is free to ABO members. If you wish to upload a new job advert, please log in and complete the online form. Your advert will then be reviewed and published within 24 hours. If you are not a member and wish to advertise, please contact emily@abo.org.uk.

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Big Noise / Sistema Scotland - Job Opportunities

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Apply to work with Big Noise or Sistema Scotland

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Career Opportunities (nyos.co.uk)

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Seasonal Pastoral Staff

NYOS is looking to recruit temporary pastoral staff to work on its residential courses which take place during the spring and summer school holidays each year. The duration of the residential courses ranges from 3 to 8 days and take place in various locations throughout Scotland, involving a wide age range of participants from 8 through to 25.

As member of the pastoral team you will help provide supervision of orchestra members at all times, working with rotas to cover leisure time activities, orchestra sessions, meal times and bedtimes. You will assist with the fire evacuation practice on the first day of the course and assist with the running and organisation of leisure time activities.

The fee is £100 per day, all accommodation and meals will be provided by NYOS and we will reimburse any travel expenses.

To be considered please send a letter of interest along with your CV to the NYOS Office in Glasgow via email to ensembles@nyos.co.uk. Or by post to the National Youth Orchestras of Scotland (NYOS), 13 Somerset Place, Glasgow, G3 7JT.

Closing date for applications: Monday 14 March at midday

Ensembles Co-ordinator

Contract: Fixed-term 6-month contract, variable hours (21-35/week) starting mid-March

Reporting to: Head of Ensembles

Reporting to the Head of Ensembles, the Ensembles Co-ordinator will support the Ensembles Team of three with the planning and assisting of operations of NYOS ensembles and outreach activity, including residential courses, concerts, and a variety of other projects.
Click here to download full Job Description
Closing date for applications: Friday 4 March at midday

First Interviews: Wednesday 9 March (Zoom)

Second Interviews: Monday 14 March (Glasgow tbc)

Head of Finance

Contract: Permanent, 21 hours/week, starting as soon as possible

Reporting to: Chief Executive
Role Overview
Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Head of Finance will play a key role within our organisation, helping to develop and implement a new organisational strategy and ensuring that our strategic objectives and operational delivery models are founded on robust financial planning and sound financial controls. As a member of the Senior Management Team the Head of Finance will oversee the organisation's financial management and liaise across all areas of the organisation including with the Board, staff, and external stakeholders.
Click here to download full Job Description
Closing date for applications: Friday 4 March at midday

First Interviews: Wednesday 9 March (Zoom)

Second Interviews: Thursday 17 March (Glasgow tbc)

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NYOS is looking to recruit temporary pastoral staff to work on its residential courses which take place during the spring and summer school holidays each year. The duration of the residential courses ranges from 3 to 8 days and take place in various locations throughout Scotland, involving a wide age range of participants from 8 through to 25.

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Business Gateway / Edinburgh College Livestream

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Music Jobs - StarNow

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Music jobs for singers, guitarists & drummers in the UK

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Musicians wanted in the UK for music jobs and singing auditions. Get signed with bands and make music for TV, stage and films!

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LinkedIn is the world's largest professional network on the internet. You can use LinkedIn to find the right job or internship, connect and strengthen professional relationships, and learn the skills

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LinkedIn Job Search: Find US Jobs, Internships, Jobs Near Me

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64% of job seekers get hired through a referral. Use LinkedIn Jobs to boost your chances of getting hired through people you know.

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There's lots to think about when applying for jobs, from CVs to application forms, cover letters and how to present yourself in an interview. Do not worry - we're here to help you every step of the way.

We'll walk you through the process of:

building a CV

cover letter writing

filling out application forms

writing personal statements

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There's lots to think about when applying for jobs, from CVs to application forms, cover letters and how to present yourself in an interview. Do not worry - we're here to help you every step of the way.

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Land your dream job with free, customizable resume templates. Showcase your potential to recruiters and stand out from other candidates with a professional template. Whether you're applying to corporate positions or creative roles, go with a sleek design or show your creativity with bold colors.

Resumes don't need to look boring-add flair to your professional experience with a creative resume template. There are plenty of resume designs to choose from, like simple resume templates and modern resume templates. Each resume template is fully customizable in Microsoft Word, so you can personalize each design element and add your own text. Using a template also makes it easier to customize your resume for each position you apply to.

Print out as many copies as you'd like or download the template for free to share digitally when applying online. These professional resume templates are perfect for any stage of life or career. Whether you're a high school student, actor, or seeking a career in nursing, you can find any format for any job type.

There are also a variety of free CV (Curriculum Vitae) templates to choose from. A CV is often longer than a resume and contains an in-depth look at your education and professional accomplishments. Like our resume templates, these CV templates are also customizable in Word.

Remember, your next job is only a template away! Once you've customized your resume, explore free cover letter templates to help you land the job.

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Free resume templates to download and print | Microsoft Create

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Stand out with professional, customizable templates. No matter your line of work, you'll find resume templates that'll help you land the job.

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Find below all CV examples for students as well as for every job and industry. Select a job title to see proven CV examples that meet all your requirements, from clear formatting to relevant skills and experience.

Most candidates use one CV example and send it in response to multiple job offers. However, on average, it takes recruiters as little as 6 seconds to decide if you are a good fit for the role. That's why the example of CV you choose should match the requirements of the job description. It should be designed to convince hiring managers that you have what it takes for the job.

Our CV examples and samples are custom-made for each job and have the layout and the tone set by position and profile.

Good CV examples

Delivery driver CV example
The distinctive design and sparingly used bold colour make this CV example perfect for anyone who wants to guide recruiters through their work history, skills, and education - not to mention the all-important first stop at their professional summary.

Create my CV
CV samples for all sectors and professions

How examples of CVs help you

How examples of CVs help you

Recruiters decide if you're a good match for a role in a mere six seconds, so your CV needs to persuade them that you've got what it takes to do the job.

CV examples help with getting the layout right, setting the tone, showing you what to include, and they also give you a boost so you feel motivated to start building your own CV.

Why use our CV examples?

For the perfect model

Let's start with the basics - our CV samples give you a shining example of what recruiters are looking for. You can use them as model when building your own CV to check that you're on the right track with your design, structure and anything else you're unsure of.

When you're using good CV examples, you'll naturally use things like subheadings and bullet points to make your CV much easier to read. You can also reflect the length of our examples with a one-page CV for maximum readability!

And inspiration

Our CV examples can also give you inspiration if you're stuck for ideas. Let's face it - we all get writer's block from time to time, and it's not always easy remembering exactly what you've done at each of your jobs.

By reading through our polished examples, you can see what kind of things to talk about - and how to talk about them. That includes invaluable tips like mentioning specific figures and using plain English wherever possible.

Ticking every box

While it's important to keep your CV concise, you don't want to scrimp on the details. By using our top-rated CV examples as a reference, you can make sure your own application includes all of the necessary information - from your personal statement and work experience to your skills and education. Whether you're struggling with a specific section or can't decide what to include where, our examples are a handy one-stop-shop that will show you how to tick every box.

Find your job or sector

There's a world of difference between CVs for bookkeepers, teachers, receptionists and students - to name just a few. That extends from the format they use to the all-important responsibilities and skills. To make things easier, we've got over 300 CVs spanning a vast array of sectors and jobs.

By finding a CV example that's tailored to your role or industry, you're much better placed to include what your future employer is looking for. Going beyond visual assistance, you'll be able to read through the personal statement, work experience, skills, and education - before tailoring your own CV to perfection.

Examples for all experience levels

We've mentioned the importance of your industry. But let's not forget experience. So much of CV writing depends on how many jobs you've had in the past. It's no use looking at a CV that's 90% work history if you're applying for your first job.

That's why our selection of professional CVs includes examples for all experience levels. Our CEO CVs can show you how to summarise decades of experience while keeping your application concise. Or check out student CVs utilising a skills-based format that's perfect for a lack of experience.

ATS optimisation

What on earth is ATS? It's short for applicant tracking software - and it's used by so many recruiters to filter down CVs to the most relevant applicants. ATS systems check for keyphrases relating to experience, qualifications, or just key skills, depending on the job in question.

Thankfully, our CV examples have been written with that in mind. Their clear, concise style is the perfect fit for including keywords without the need to add loads more text. By following our lead, you'll be in pole position to pass that ATS check and get your CV seen by a real recruiter.

Nail the personal statement

We've already mentioned text or 'content'. But it's worth noting just how important the personal statement (or professional summary) is for your CV. This short paragraph sits at the top of your CV and should outline your current role, work background, and key skills.

With the average recruiter spending just six seconds scanning an application, you'll need to write a knock-out personal statement that makes them want to find out more. That's why all of our UK CV examples have a professionally written personal statement that's tailored to the job - so you can see exactly how to pick out and sum up the best qualities in 2-3 sentences.

CV examples - frequently asked questions

How to write a CV - examples

There are number of tips that can help you nail the writing style on your CV. To make things easier, we've provided some examples below:

Clear and concise - To keep your CV short and sweet like our examples, it's best to ditch any fluff or unnecessary text. For example, say you "Cleaned food preparation areas daily" rather than explaining how you "worked hard to make sure every last corner of the kitchen was clean at the end of each day".

Active voice - Use action words to explain what you did, not what happened while you were there. An example of this would be saying "managed 20 staff over a 5-year period", compared to "team of 20 staff were managed effectively"

Plain English - You might think jargon makes your application look more professional. But it can actually alienate recruiters. Keep things simple and explain any acronyms, such as "click-through rate" for "CTR" or even "managing director" for "MD".

Be specific - Eliminate the guesswork. Specific numbers can work wonders for your CV. For example, "managed marketing budgets exceeding £50,000" or "assisted 100+ customers weekly"

How to describe yourself in a CV - examples

Here are some tips for describing yourself in a CV:

Do it in your personal statement - The only place you should describe yourself in your CV is your personal statement. As an example, don't say that you have 10 years' experience in your work history section. Say so in your professional summary at the top, then let your work history back it up.

Use the third person - Even when you're introducing yourself, recruiters don't want to hear "I", "me", "we". For your CV, it's more professional to use the third person, for example "Hard-working accountant with ten years of experience in finance roles. Skilled in bookkeeping, VAT, and business planning"

Relevant adjectives - Adjectives (describing words) are essential to tell recruiters what you're like. But make sure they're relevant to the job. It's no use saying you're "physically fit" for a data entry role, for example, or "creative" as an accountant. Choose wisely with 2-3 adjectives that best describe your qualities in line with your job.

What should I include in a CV example?

If you want to build a CV like our examples, it's best to include these five key parts:

Personal details: name, address, and contact details.

Personal statement: a concise overview of your career and ambitions.

Work history: detail your experience (using real world examples where relevant) to prove your suitability for the role. Try to tailor this section to each role yo u're applying for.

Skills: add a bullet-point list of skills to emphasise your key qualities, especially for recruiters that don't want to read your entire work history.

Education and qualifications: include information on relevant degrees and certificates, and where you obtained them. It's standard for these to be listed using reverse chronological order (the latest first).

Step up your career with CV examples

With over a decade of experience helping millions of candidates, we know what makes a great CV. All our examples show the CV template, layout, and content. They also guide you on what to say and how to structure it.

Step up your career with CV examples

*The names and logos of the companies referred to above are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with myperfectCV.

Let our professional CV examples guide the way as you build your own CV. Find your sector then select your job title to see a tried-and-tested example CV that ticks all the boxes, from clear formatting to the right skills and experience.

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CV Examples & Top CV Samples for 2023 | myPerfectCV

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Find below all CV examples for students as well as for every job and industry. Select a job title to see proven CV examples that meet all your requirements, from clear formatting to relevant skills and experience. Most candidates use one CV example and send it in response to multiple job offers.

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Showcase yourself and your achievements with an impressive resume made with the free online resume maker from Adobe Express.
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Highlight your career experience, skills, and knowledge in a resume template from Adobe Express. Your resume will stand out in these sleek, contemporary layouts that you can customize and share with potential employers. Explore a vast library of simple yet professional designs that can land you that next interview. Using this resume builder app is as simple as selecting a template, editing it, and sharing in any format you choose.

Customize your application with this free resume creator.

A visually-appealing resume distinguishes you from the competition and attracts the attention of job recruiters. The Adobe Express online tools equip you with everything you need to design the perfect resume. Add the fonts, graphics, text, colors, and images of your choice to the fully-customizable resume templates. You'll find limitless ways to create eye-catching resumes.
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Do even more with this free resume generator. Adjust your resume's size so you can post it to your social channels, website, or blog. Build a portfolio so your audience can see for themselves all of your accomplishments in full HD. Use your resume as a template to make a matching cover letter Need help? Adobe Express is more than a set of online tools - it's a design community as well, with an inspiration gallery of completed projects, tutorials, and design resources for all of the Adobe Express tools.
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Frequently asked questions.

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Free Resume Online Builder with Standout Templates | Adobe Express

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Showcase yourself and your achievements with an impressive resume made with the free online resume maker from Adobe Express. Create your resume now Make your resume for free on the Adobe Express app. Adobe Express enables you to quickly and easily make standout content from thousands of beautiful templates on mobile and web.

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Are you in work or looking for a new role? We've created a new service to support you. It's an extension of My World of Work, full of advice and tools to help you take the next step in your career.

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Search for funding

You can use these websites to search for funding for your business or idea.

FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot

Search for funding, advice or training options in Scotland on FindBusinessSupport.gov.scot.

Scottish Enterprise: European Funding

Find European funding options - Scottish Enterprise website

Find government funding

The following organisations can help you find Scottish government, local council or European Union funding:

Business Gateway

Business Gateway can give you advice on finding funding. They can also help your business get funding available through:

Scottish Enterprise

Highlands and Islands Enterprise

Skills Development Scotland

your local council

Scottish Enterprise

Scottish Enterprise can help you apply to the following:

They can also help you apply for:

Scottish Growth Scheme

The Scottish Growth Scheme is a £500 million package of financial support for Scottish businesses. It's backed by the Scottish Government and aims to help businesses grow.

You can find more information on the Scottish Growth Scheme.

Scottish Loan Scheme

The Scottish Loan Scheme is part of the Scottish Growth Scheme. Through the Scottish Loan Scheme, Scottish Enterprise offer loans to businesses looking to grow.

Business can apply to the Scottish Loan Scheme for loans of between £250,000 and £2 million. In some circumstances, they might be able to apply for up to £5 million.

To apply, businesses must:

have a business plan

be able to show how they'll repay their loan

be least 2 years old

have a minimum turnover of £250,000

be profitable, or expect to make a profit in the next 12 months

have headquarters in Scotland, be operating in Scotland, or looking to locate to Scotland

have tried to get other funding but were unsuccessful

show how the funding they need will have an equal level of economic impact in Scotland

show that they use fair work practices, such as the living wage, and do not use zero hours contracts

You can find more information on the Scottish Enterprise website

Highlands and Islands Enterprise

If you live in the Highlands and Islands, Highlands and Islands Enterprise can help you get the same funding available through Scottish Enterprise.

They can also help you apply for the following:

Skills Development Scotland

Skills Development Scotland can help you apply to the Flexible Workforce Development fund or find funding to employ an apprentice.

Interface

Interface can help you get funding to develop new ideas for products, services and businesses.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency can help you apply to the Water Environment Fund

Zero Waste Scotland

Zero Waste Scotland's Circular Economy Business Support Service can help you find support and funding. They can also help you create a circular business plan.

Business Energy Scotland

Business Energy Scotland can help you apply for a loan for a project that saves money and reduces your use of resources.

Energy Saving Trust

Energy Saving Trustcan help your business find money to help you save energy

Cairngorms Trust

If you live or work in the Cairngorms National Park area, you can apply to the Cairngorms Trust for funding towards development projects

The development project needs to benefit the public.

Cairngorms National Park Authority

Land management businesses in the Cairngorms National Park area, can apply to the Cairngorms National Park Authority for funding to train staff

Creative Scotland

If you run a creative business or work in the creative industries, you might be able to get funding from Creative Scotland

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Search for business funding, including grant and loan options available in Scotland.

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Scottish EDGE is the main competition category, and all companies that apply and meet the eligibility criteria will be entered in to and assessed for the main Scottish EDGE competition. This category also includes three special awards:STV Growth EDGE, for consumer-based product business across both Rounds 16 and 17, Higgs EDGE, for Science, Technology and Engineering focused businesses; Creative EDGE, for businesses from within Scotland's Creative Sector; Social Enterprise EDGE, for Social Enterprise businesses; and Circular Economy EDGE, for circular focused businesses.

If you have an Innovative, High-Growth Potential business then you could win up to £100,000 (£150,000 for Higgs EDGE) plus a fantastic package of support from Scottish EDGE. The application process consists of each business completing the Scottish EDGE Online Application Form (available from our website) and producing a 3-minute video presentation. Your application and video submission are then assessed by our independent panel of assessors against the following criteria: Innovation, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Business Growth Potential, Customer Focused, Utilisation of Funding and Risk Awareness.

At Scottish EDGE, we recognise that growing your business can be particularly challenging for younger entrepreneurs. Whilst Scottish EDGE is open to all who meet the Scottish EDGE criteria, an additional special category has been designed to support Companies whose Directors are all aged 18-30 (excluding Non-Exec Directors and Investors) in the form of Young EDGE.

Applicants who are eligible for the Young EDGE category will be assessed as part of the Scottish EDGE 1st Stage Assessment Process and, should they meet the scoring level required following assessment, will be invited to pitch live at the Young EDGE Final, for the chance to win one of the prizes up to £15,000 (Grant only). The assessment criteria for Young EDGE is the same as in the Scottish EDGE category.

Following the conclusion of the assessment day, the judging panel will decide the top Young EDGE winner (irrespective of their Scottish EDGE assessment score) and this business will be awarded a place at a future Scottish EDGE final.

Recognising that businesses can often require support to take their product or service to market, Scottish EDGE introduced the Wild Card EDGE competition category in 2015. Open to pre-trading businesses, winning a Wild Card EDGE award results in Scottish EDGE support in the form of a grant of up to £15,000 and access to our non-financial support package, provided by leading business professionals.

This is a judges' award category and requires the collective agreement of the assessment panel that you or your company has the innovative 'wow' factor. Innovation is not only about your product or service; it can be about you, your approach, your team, or the design or brand which you have adopted.

Following the conclusion of the assessment day, the judging panel will decide the top Wild Card EDGE winner (irrespective of their Scottish EDGE assessment score) and this business will be awarded a place at a future Scottish EDGE final.

Round 16 is now Closed

Round 17 will open for application in December 2020

You only need to submit one application to be entered in to the Scottish EDGE, Young EDGE or Wild Card EDGE competition, where eligibility permits. All applications must be submitted using the Scottish EDGE Online Application Portal, which can be accessed from the top of the Home Page.

No paper based or email applications will be accepted.

Whilst the competition standard and level of expectation can often increase as you progress through the stages of the Scottish EDGE competition, the assessment criteria remains consistent across the 1st Stage assessments, the Semi-Final and the Final.

Young EDGE and Wild Card EDGE also have the same assessment scoring process but within Wild Card EDGE this will be interpreted slightly differently as these businesses are pre-trading. The assessment criteria across all rounds scores against the following key requirements:

Innovation

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Business Growth Potential

Customer Focus

Utilisation of Funding

Risk Awareness

Expanded definitions of each critera can be found here.

The video should be to the standard of that taken on a hand held mobile recording device or better - it is not necessary to pay for an external party to produce a professional video solely for this competition unless you really wish to do so. It is the content of the pitch which matters. We would encourage applicants to show their product or service in the 3 minute video as this often helps bring your offering to life for the judging panel during the assessment process.

YouTube is the preferred option for uploading video content and we would encourage applicants to amend their video to the unlisted option when uploading a video to YouTube (link below). The time limit for videos is 3 minutes maximum. Any video content beyond 3 minutes will not be viewed during assessments.

How to change video to Unlisted.

Once the video content has been uploaded to YouTube (or another preferred format i.e. Vimeo) then you must provide the full URL link on your Scottish EDGE Application where requested.

Please refer to the Scottish EDGE Competition Brochure for a more detailed breakdown.

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The UK's Biggest Business Funding Competition

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Scottish EDGE is the main competition category, and all companies that apply and meet the eligibility criteria will be entered in to and assessed for the main Scottish EDGE competition.

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Find the best music industry jobs & careers for all degrees. Includes full-time, part-time, internships and remote work.

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You'll need to be highly creative, driven, resilient and a great communicator to make it in the exciting and competitive world of music production

A music producer assists artists and groups in the studio to create recorded music, for an album, a film, advert or any other kind of creative output.

Music producers are responsible for developing and making creative content. You could work in a studio, as a live events producer or as producer/sound engineer. The term 'music producer' covers a number of careers in music production, and there are several different routes you can follow.

A producer's role is to pull together the separate parts of a sound recording. As a music producer, you'll work with bands, or make decisions on the types of musicians required to record a piece of music. You'll also decide on the type of recording process to use and the budget available. The role includes writing, arranging, recording and producing music for other artists or in their own right.

Music producers working on live music events are responsible for running creative spectacles like concerts, festivals or live shows. This involves coordinating technical staff, performers and other stakeholders to ensure events run smoothly. Live events may be one-offs or regular annual events, and can be held at indoor and outdoor music venues of all sizes.

Producers can work in the publicly funded or commercial sector, and many work on a freelance basis - crossing over into other disciplines such as theatre production, composition and direction.

Responsibilities

Specific responsibilities vary depending on the artist, recording studio, radio station, label, or organisation that you works for. In general, your tasks will include:

listening to an artist's demo tapes and working with artists to produce the sound they require

deciding on an appropriate studio for an artist's music and equipment

advising on album songs

operating technical equipment including mixing desks

technical work including audio editing, sound design and ghost production

helping artists to achieve the sounds they're striving for

working with organisations, venues and artists involved in live events

finding and booking suitable venues

planning event schedules, timings and performances

making logistical arrangements for artists

ensuring the arrangement of other facilities, such as catering, toilets, entertainment, and insurance

working with marketing teams to prepare printed material.

By its nature, the role of music producer requires you to be flexible and adaptable. You'll need to turn your hand to a number of tasks, and acquire new skills quickly.

Salary

Most music producers work on an hourly basis, with fees starting at around £25 to £55 per hour.

Experienced music producers can charge up to £200 per hour, depending on their previous work and level of skill.

If you're a music producer on live events, salaries may be more fixed. The BBC, for example, employs producers on its music programmes and live events. An entry level salary for this kind of role ranges from approximately £18,000 to £25,000.

Your income will vary widely depending on whether you're freelance or employed, and whether you're developing your own music or working with other artists.

Working hours

Working hours can be very long and will include unsocial hours and working weekends. The nature of freelance production studio work and event work, salaried or freelance, typically means intense periods of activity, based on the individual project, followed by periods of relative inactivity or downtime. Even salaried positions are usually offered on a fixed-term contract basis.

What to expect

If you're a studio-based music producer, you're likely to be based in cities where recording equipment and studios are more prevalent. You may be working for a large studio, independently in smaller studios or in your home environment.

You might be asked to work overseas, often at short notice - because of this, you must be prepared to be away from home for periods of time.

Employment can be insecure, so you'll need a flexible attitude to work.

The production environment can be stressful, due to demands on your time from artists, venues, and other stakeholders, and the work will often require an all-hours approach to meet deadlines. However, the trade-off is that the work is exciting, and results in the creative output for a large-scale event. Those working in music production generally consider this to be fair.

Qualifications

While you don't need a degree to be a music producer, a number of producers will have a degree or some technical training alongside running their own production projects. The following subjects at degree or HND level are most likely to provide you with relevant skills or knowledge:

There are many universities offering music production and music degrees - visit UCAS for details and to find out how to apply.

Some courses focus more on the academic side of music, whereas others are more vocational, offering placements in industry, which allow you to experience the practical side of music production. Make sure you do your research to ensure that the course matches your career aims.

Courses containing practical elements may increase your chances. There are now several online courses in music production, which may be a cheaper way to develop your skills enrolling on a university-based course. Look for courses that provide excellent technical resources and contacts within the industry. Further information on training can be found at:

Most course applications will require you to demonstrate evidence of enthusiasm, skill and practical experience so make sure you're developing your music production skills and own creative projects alongside studying. You'll need sufficient practical experience before moving into the role of producer, and a qualification on its own won't be enough.

Specialist postgraduate qualifications may also be useful and could help you make additional contacts within the industry.

It's possible to get into music production via an apprenticeship. See what's available at UK Music - Apprenticeships.

Organisations such as the BBC may also offer apprenticeships with a production or music focus - see BBC Careers - Trainee schemes & apprenticeships for more information.

Skills

You'll need to have:

creative flair

a love for music and a good working knowledge of the industry

the ability to network and build relationships with a wide variety of people in the industry to build up your profile

the ability to put artists at ease

self-motivation

strong communication skills and the ability to demonstrate and communicate your ideas to artists and other relevant people

technical understanding and ability, both musical and digital

organisation and planning skills

patience and resilience

the ability to cope well under pressure

adaptability and flexibility

drive and perseverance.

Work experience

As with most jobs in the music industry, competition is fierce. Music production is an area that people are working in for the love of what they do. Getting involved with music production at an early stage will greatly benefit you, whether you're producing your own work or working on remixes of other artists, getting involved in student societies, music and sound production for theatre and film, or working with local artists. A broad and open-minded approach to obtaining work experience will help you build a portfolio and find out which area of production you'd like to pursue.

You'll also need practical experience, either by producing your own music or spending time learning on the job or in a voluntary capacity. Get into a recording studio as soon as possible and start learning how everything works. Build your network of contacts in the music and creative industries, and ensure you've got an online presence if producing your own work (using sites such as Soundcloud). Networking is key, as opportunities often come through the people you meet via word of mouth.

Most producers will start with low wages and limited contacts, but this can build quickly if you have the tenacity to keep producing work and developing your skills and contact list.

Gaining experience of producing live events can be obtained by volunteering at music festivals and gigs, securing an entry-level role as an events assistant or working with organisations such as Sofar Sounds to see what goes into producing a live music event.

Employers

Music producers work in studios, either on an employed or freelance basis. There are opportunities at record companies, or big brands that rely on creative content, such as:

You may also find employment with:

community film or video projects

theatre companies

digital or internet channels.

Look for job vacancies at:

Professional development

You'll need to continue training to improve your technical skills throughout your working life. As the music industry is fast moving and responds to trends, keeping on top of technological advances in production is key. The majority of professional development occurs on the job. Once you've started to develop your interests and skills, you may decide to train in other areas of music production, such as sound engineering or live events production, or cross-over into other arts disciplines. Larger employers, like the BBC, may also run in-house training schemes.

Further training and support and advice on funding opportunities is available from:

It's also worth reading any industry-specific publications, such as Music Week, to keep up to date with what's happening and any skills gaps in the industry.

Career prospects

Establishing a career as a music producer can be difficult, as the sector as a whole is very competitive. Most roles are freelance or fixed term, and you'll need the tenacity to keep producing your own work and promoting yourself between jobs. Roles in production of live events may be more stable as they can be with larger employers, but given the nature of the work, production roles here are often project based and have fixed timelines.

Once you've gained experience in the music industry, it's possible to move into other roles in music administration, business and management, or into other creative roles that require knowledge of music production (e.g radio producer, musical director, theatre production).

It's also possible to have a portfolio career, running music production work alongside other projects, or move into related areas of work in music education and community arts work.

Written by Lara Hayward

University of Oxford · June 2019

© Copyright AGCAS & Graduate Prospects Ltd · Disclaimer

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You'll need to be highly creative, driven, resilient and a great communicator to make it in the exciting and competitive world of music production A music producer assists artists and groups in the studio to create recorded music, for an album, a film, advert or any other kind of creative output.

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Musicians are composers, conductors or performers of music, and use their skills to pursue a creative role in a variety of settings

You could be a composer, instrumentalist or a singer performing either in the studio or to a live audience.

You may work alone, as a freelance artist, in collaboration with others, or as a salaried member of a:

Competition in this field is high, so you'll need to dedicate hours of practice to maintain and develop your skills - whatever your preferred style.

Responsibilities

As there are many genres of music, some activities will differ depending on your area of expertise. However, you'll typically need to:

perform at concerts, festivals, theatres and other music venues

participate in recording sessions

practise regularly

attend rehearsals and plan performances

prepare for auditions

look after your instrument and/or voice

set up/tune your instrument and other equipment, arranging for its transportation if required

compose new songs and music

promote your act by making demos, using social media, setting up your own website, and contacting agents and record companies

handle the administration of business activities such as handling accounts, negotiating fees and organising distribution of your recordings both offline and online

seek out new venues in which to perform

arrange gigs and tours either yourself or through a manager or agent

deliver educational work in schools, businesses and the wider community.

Salary

Your income will vary widely depending on, for example, whether you're working freelance or as part of an orchestra, or whether you're performing a gig in a pub or in a concert venue.

You would normally negotiate gig fees on a case-by-case basis. However, the Musicians' Union (MU) provides minimum casual stage rates for groups performing on stage (usually in a theatre or concert venue) ranging from £164 to £182.75 (for a single performance plus rehearsal on the same day), as well as a national gig rate for groups performing in pubs, clubs and functions ranging from £139.50 to £186.

In orchestras, your salary will depend on the orchestra you work for, your grade and experience. For example, salaries for BBC orchestra players can range from £30,000 to £55,000. Rates for freelance orchestral concerts range from £167.50 to £191.

The MU has guidance on rates for employed and self-employed orchestral musicians, gigs and live engagements, session musicians, and musicians working in theatre.

Increases in income will depend on your genre, experience and skill, the type of venue you play in, your popularity and the general economic climate.

For salaried musicians, extra payments can be made for overtime, concert fees, recordings, porterage of large instruments and travel expenses. In some instances, you may also be paid an additional fee for rehearsal. Royalties may be additionally paid if the music has been registered with the PPL or PRS for Music.

Figures are intended as a guide only. See the MU and the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM) for more information on fees and rates for musicians.

Working hours

You won't have a regular Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm work pattern. Rehearsals usually take place during the day and performances in the evenings, though this can vary.

Studio recordings can take place late into the evening.

Private practice can take place any time of the day or night.

What to expect

It takes time, skill, practice and dedication to develop a reputation as a musician and you'll be expected to learn in your own time.

You may need to diversify and branch out into other styles of music in order to enhance your employability. You may also have to take on other work, for example teaching music either to individual pupils or peripatetic teaching in schools/colleges, to enhance your income as a performer.

Performing and auditioning can be stressful for some musicians, and performance-related psychology can be helpful. Repetitive strain injuries are not uncommon.

It's relatively common to spend time away from home, sometimes for long periods, both in the UK and abroad. This goes hand in hand with touring companies or going on tour with your band. You'll need to be flexible and travel where the work takes you, whether this is freelance or contract work.

A limited number of orchestral posts are available and tend to be in the larger cities. There are opportunities for singers and instrumentalists to audition throughout Europe and beyond.

Actor musicianship

Immerse yourself in music and acting with renowned academic Jeremy Harrison

Qualifications

Although you don't need a degree in music to become a musician, for some genres, such as the classical repertoire, it is highly regarded. Experience and overall musicianship are paramount.

Most musicians start learning an instrument or singing from an early age. This is particularly true of classical musicians, who take graded music exams, including theory, before going on to further training at a conservatoire (music college) or university.

Conservatoires differ from universities as they focus more on performance-led diplomas or degrees, with an emphasis on practical skills. You'll be expected to work a full week with performances and workshops usually held in the evening or at the weekend. You must also be prepared to practise in your own time. Entry is via audition and undergraduate courses last three or four years. There are also postgraduate courses available. See UCAS - Conservatoires for information on courses and to apply.

There are also many universities offering music degrees - visit UCAS for details and to apply. Some courses focus more on the academic side of music so do your research to make sure the course matches your career aims.

Relevant qualifications and graded exams are also provided by organisations such as The Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) and Rockschool Music.

Competition is tough in the industry, but a love for your style of music combined with the determination to succeed should improve your chances. Entry to full-time posts in orchestras is particularly competitive and you'll usually need to build a musical career incorporating performance work in a number of different settings and groups, teaching and arranging music.

Skills

You'll need to have:

motivation, determination and perseverance

confidence in performing before an audience

stamina and dedication to continue practising every day

reliability and flexibility as you'll need to work long and irregular hours

the ability to work well as part of a team

creativity

self-discipline and good time management

good communication and interpersonal skills

patience, understanding and resilience, to take on board criticism and accept rejection

attention to detail.

You'll also need business and marketing skills as many musicians work on a self-employed or freelance basis.

Work experience

Whatever your genre of music, you'll need to get practical experience. Get involved with relevant orchestras, choirs, music societies, bands and solo musicians at university and in your local area. Introduce yourself to as many musicians as possible, use any professional contacts you make and keep up with social media to promote yourself and showcase your work. For more information on how to promote yourself, see the MU's advice on marketing yourself.

Networking is vital as opportunities are often discovered via word of mouth, and personal recommendations can sometimes lead to auditions. Take any opportunity that arises to gain experience - by doing so, you'll build your confidence and professional network and extend your repertoire. Examples of where to gain this experience include:

playing for amateur orchestras

attending auditions

entering talent competitions

playing at festivals

playing gigs

joining student society music groups.

Entry is usually through an audition. Where appropriate, keep a record of when different organisations audition by closely following their website or calling them in person. For example, some orchestras and opera houses hold auditions on a yearly basis, while others only audition when a current member leaves.

See BBC Introducing Music for information on how to get started.

Find out more about the different kinds of work experience and internships that are available.

Employers

Many professional musicians, regardless of their genre, are self-employed, with the exception of some classical musicians, who are occasionally employed as a full or part-time member of a specific orchestra.

There is a great variety of orchestras and ensembles in the UK and they differ in terms of size, style, location and repertoire. Employers include ballet, symphony, opera and chamber orchestras, some of which will be large enough to employ musicians on full-time contracts. For a list of member orchestras and ensembles see the Association of British Orchestras (ABO).

As a popular musician you could form part of a band, a backing group or be a solo performer. You'll generally need to work in another role and play part time until you become successful.

The most common employers of classical singers are opera companies, although as there are very few professional choirs opportunities can be limited. Some of the larger choral societies employ opera singers for solo and oratorio work.

There is also occasional work offered by independent fixers for recording sessions and outdoor performances. Freelance musicians or permanent staff can take on this ad-hoc work.

Organists are attached to a specific cathedral or church and their full-time post may also include the role of choirmaster and director of music. The majority of organists will work part time and combine their role with teaching at an associated school or conducting a local choral society.

Other employers of musicians include holiday camps, cruise ships, theatre companies and the Corps of Army Music (military music for the British Army and wider defence community).

Look for job vacancies at:

You can also visit the ABO website and search individual orchestral and opera company websites.

Although some jobs and auditions are advertised in the music and entertainment press, one of the most common ways to learn of vacancies is via word of mouth and networking.

It's also possible to find work through an agent or manager.

You could also produce a demo CD, DVD or MP3 of your music to send to recording companies.

Professional development

You'll need to continue training to improve your performance and professional development throughout your working life. This is achieved through practising every day and performing, as well as by taking lessons with private music teachers.

Further training and support is available from a range of organisations and professional bodies related to your genre of music, for example:

These organisations provide a range of professional development opportunities such as training courses, qualifications and seminars, as well as access to advice, awards and bursaries.

The ISM and the MU provide members with access to careers and business advice on issues such as fees and contracts, as well as networking and professional development opportunities.

Funding and grants may be available to help further develop your skills. See Help Musicians UK for information on funding opportunities through their Creative Programme.

It's also worth reading the specialist press for your area of music, such as Music Week, to keep up to date with what is happening in the industry.

Career prospects

Establishing a career as a musician can be difficult as it's a very competitive area of work. It's not always possible to work full time as a musician, particularly at the start of your career, and you'll need talent, determination and perseverance to succeed.

There isn't a great deal of movement within the orchestral profession, so bottlenecks do occur and progression can be slow. Movement to another orchestra may be the only way to advance in this situation. With experience you may be able to progress to principal player or section leader. This is likely to involve extra duties such as organising a section of the orchestra, editing the music and discussing options with conductors.

Solo performers may start their career within an orchestra or amateur choir and then progress to become a soloist, but very often they start their career from day one as a solo performer with a mixture of freelance solo work and teaching. You'll receive more work as you build your reputation.

Once you've gained experience in the popular music industry, you may decide to move into the business side as a producer, manager or writer or you could work for a record company.

It's also possible to develop your career as a composer or conductor, start your own ensemble or move into related areas of work such as music education, administration or community arts work.

Find out how Isabel became a musician at BBC Bitesize.

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Musicians are composers, conductors or performers of music, and use their skills to pursue a creative role in a variety of settings You could be a composer, instrumentalist or a singer performing either in the studio or to a live audience.

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Private music teacher job profile | Prospects.ac.uk

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Discover what it takes to be a Private music teacher. Find out expected salary, working hours, qualifications and more.

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Music therapists use music creatively to help clients address their social, emotional, psychological, physical or communication needs

As a music therapist, you'll use your high level of musicianship and professional training at postgraduate level to connect with and support your clients. You won't teach them to sing or play an instrument, but will communicate through music making and a shared musical experience to support them and facilitate positive changes in their behaviour, communication and wellbeing.

You'll work with babies, children and adults of all ages and social backgrounds, either individually or in groups, in a range of clinical settings. Your clients may be affected by a range of injuries, illnesses, disabilities, challenges or difficulties including:

acquired brain injury or stroke

addiction

autism

communication delay

dementia

learning disabilities

mental ill health

school exclusion

serious illness, such as cancer

social, behavioural and emotional difficulties and wellbeing.

You'll also work with those who want to gain an insight into themselves and how they relate to others.

Responsibilities

As a music therapist, you'll need to:

undertake assessments to determine whether music therapy is appropriate for your clients' needs

agree therapy objectives with your clients

plan, develop and deliver music therapy interventions to meet your clients' needs

take an active role in sessions by playing, singing and listening

encourage your clients to use a range of accessible musical instruments, such as percussion and their own voice, to express themselves

encourage your clients' participation and support them musically

help your clients explore sound to create a musical language of their own

improvise with music as a reaction to what your clients are communicating to enhance the individual nature of your relationship

review and assess therapy sessions to monitor their effectiveness and to help plan following sessions

record therapy sessions, with your clients' consent

support your clients' creative development

help your clients develop an increased self-awareness

assess your clients' musical and non-musical behaviours

collaborate with other professionals involved in the care of your clients, such as doctors, paediatricians, speech and language therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, teachers and social workers, in order to take a holistic approach to their care

attend planning, review and other multidisciplinary meetings, and refer clients to other agencies where appropriate

support your clients' family or carers where appropriate

write up case notes and reports and make recommendations for further treatment

promote the profession of music therapy and contribute to best practice and the development of services.

Salary

If you're working in the NHS, starting salaries range from £32,306 to £39,027 (band 6 of the NHS Agenda for Change (AfC) Pay Rates).

More experienced music therapists may earn between £40,057 and £45,839 (band 7).

Salaries for principal music therapists range from £47,126 to £53,219 (band 8a).

Fees for music therapists working in the private sector are usually negotiated between the employer and employee. The British Association for Music Therapy (BAMT) recommends a sessional pay rate of £40 to £60 per hour.

When negotiating fees, use the NHS pay structures as a guide and make sure you factor in all the costs involved in running a session - this includes room rental, heating and lighting, indemnity insurance, maintenance of instrument stock, travel, supervision and meetings.

Income figures are intended as a guide only.

Working hours

Full-time music therapists typically work Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, although working hours vary, for example if you're working in a school. You may also need to work evenings if you're self-employed to meet your clients' needs.

Many music therapists work part time, combining music therapy with other job roles, such as teaching or performance. Self-employment is common.

What to expect

You'll usually work in a music room equipped with a range of instruments and will meet your clients in the same place at the same time each week. You'll often work between a base and wherever your clients are located, such as a day centre or special school. Whatever the setting, it needs to be a private and safe space.

You may work on a one-to-one basis with a client or in a group setting with many clients. In most cases, you'll work as part of a wider multidisciplinary team. In large units, you may be part of an arts therapies team, while in small units you could be the only therapist.

If you work in a clinical setting, for example, you may spend a lot of time liaising with medical colleagues and other professionals engaged in the care of their clients.

Jobs are available in towns and cities throughout the UK.

If you work for several different organisations, you're likely to spend time travelling to and from different work places during the week.

Qualifications

You must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to work as a music therapist in the UK. This involves completing professional training at postgraduate level at one of the following institutions approved by the HCPC:

Graduates from these programmes are eligible to apply for HCPC registration. Visit the HCPC website for a current list of approved courses. Once qualified, you can also join the British Association for Music Therapy (BAMT) as a practitioner member.

Courses last two years (full time) or three to four years part time. Clinical placements form part of your training and cover a range of work settings and client groups.

You'll need a high level of practical musicianship, as well as academic and personal skills, to get a place on a training course. Although many applicants have a music degree or equivalent, it's also possible to get a place on a course if your degree is in another subject, as long as you can show proficiency in musical performance. An equivalent professional qualification or extensive experience in a related field may also be acceptable.

If you don't have a degree you'll need to prove you have the necessary academic skills to work at Masters level.

The application process typically includes a written application, an interview and an audition. Contact individual course providers for entry requirements as they may vary between institutions.

You will also need to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (Protecting Vulnerable Groups scheme in Scotland).

Some course providers provide introductory courses for those thinking about a career in music therapy.

As well as course fees, you will also have to pay additional costs for items such as personal therapy, personal indemnity insurance, placement travel costs and criminal records checks.

Funding or grants towards music therapy training may be available from a range of organisations, such as the BAMT, charities or trusts. Contact course providers to see if they have any funding opportunities.

Skills

You'll need to have:

a high level of musicianship

skills in improvisation and the ability to use music symbolically and expressively

listening and observational skills to help understand your clients' needs and issues

creativity and imagination

enthusiasm and the ability to motivate others

written and verbal communication skills

the ability to work collaboratively with other medical and educational professionals, parents, relatives and care workers as well as on your own

personal maturity, resilience and emotional stability to deal with challenging situations

the ability to empathise with clients of all ages and with wide-ranging needs

flexibility and adaptability - sessions can't be rigidly pre-planned as you need to respond to the needs of your client

patience - music therapy is not exclusively results-based and progress may be slow

respect for client confidentiality

the ability to manage your time effectively

attention to detail as you will need to keep accurate records and provide reports

the ability to prioritise you work and to cope with competing pressures

a high level of self-reflection and self-awareness

self-motivation, particularly if you're self-employed.

If working in private practice, you'll also need business and administration skills.

Work experience

You'll need work experience in a relevant field to get a place on a postgraduate training course. This doesn't have to be music-based but you will need to get professional experience in a caring role, working with vulnerable people in the community.

Most entrants to music therapy have had substantial voluntary or paid experience with adults and children who have additional needs in areas such as health, education or social care. This experience will help you to understand the work you'll be doing as a music therapist, which can be physically and emotionally challenging.

Experience in the following areas can be particularly beneficial:

dementia care

developmental difficulties

homelessness

hospice care

learning disabilities

mental health.

Contact course providers for details on the type and amount of experience they're looking for.

Voluntary music-specific opportunities may also be available with:

Find out more about the different kinds of work experience and internships that are available.

Employers

There are around 800 registered music therapists in the UK who are members of the BAMT. Major employers include the NHS and the education sector. You may also be employed by charities, social services and on community projects.

You can work in a variety of settings, such as:

care homes and other residential settings

child development and children's centres

clients' homes

community spaces

day centres

hospices and related outreach settings

NHS and private hospitals

prisons

rehabilitation centres

mainstream schools and nurseries

special schools and pupil referral units

specialist music therapy centres.

Opportunities also exist in clinical work and research, supported by charitable organisations and trusts, or in universities, lecturing on one of the recognised training courses.

You can work in private practice, or on a freelance basis, where there's a constant demand for music therapy.

Look for job vacancies at:

BAMT also offers a monthly ebulletin to its members, which includes job alerts.

Jobs are also advertised in the press and on networking sites, for example LinkedIn.

Professional development

As a practising music therapist you're legally required to register with the HCPC and renew your registration every two years. To stay registered, you must keep a record of your continuing professional development (CPD) activities, which can include a mixture of:

work-based learning - supervision, in-service training, peer review and discussion with colleagues

professional activity - involvement in a professional body such as the BAMT, lecturing and teaching, presentation at conferences

formal training and education - top-up courses, submission of papers to a journal, undertaking research

self-directed learning - reading professional journals and news articles.

The BAMT offers support and training for practising music therapists, including courses, conferences and seminars. This gives you the chance to develop new knowledge and skills and to network with others in your field.

Training institutions recognised by the HCPC may run CPD courses. You could also do a PhD in music therapy to develop your knowledge in a particular area.

Career prospects

As you gain experience, you may choose to specialise in one particular area, such as mental health, dementia, palliative care or child development, or work in two or three areas of interest. There are options to work for an employer, set up in private practice or a combination of both.

As a newly qualified music therapist, you're encouraged to run your own therapy sessions with support from a line manager. With experience, you can apply for more senior posts within the music therapy team, such as consultant music therapist. In this role, you'll manage a team of music therapists. Other opportunities for career progression include day centre manager or managing other therapy specialisms. This usually involves taking on additional supervisory and management responsibilities.

If you work for yourself, you'll need to build up your own client base. You'll rely upon sessional payment from consultations, rather than a regular income, and must factor in the costs involved in running a session. Some music therapists choose to undertake private practice work in addition to working for an employer.

There are also opportunities for research and lecturing on one of the approved training courses and to train to supervise other practitioners and students.

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Music therapists use music creatively to help clients address their social, emotional, psychological, physical or communication needs As a music therapist, you'll use your high level of musicianship and professional training at postgraduate level to connect with and support your clients.

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Sound technicians use technical knowledge and expertise to produce and manipulate the sound for performances and recordings

As a sound technician, it's your responsibility to assemble, operate and maintain the technical equipment used to record, amplify, enhance, mix or reproduce sound.

You'll identify the sound requirements for a given task or situation and perform the appropriate actions to produce this sound.

Sound technicians are required in a range of industries including:

advertising

audio recordings

broadcasting (radio or television)

film

live performance (theatre, music, dance).

Job titles vary according to the industry and can include sound assistant, sound recordist and sound supervisor.

Within film, specialist roles are available such as dialogue editor, dubbing mixer, sound effects editor, production sound mixer and Foley artist.

Responsibilities

As a sound technician, your responsibilities will vary depending on whether you work in:

production - the recording of all sound on set or on location

post-production - the balancing, mixing, editing and enhancing of pre-recorded audio.

Working in production, you'll need to:

assess the acoustics of the performance area as directed by the sound supervisor

select, position, adjust and operate sound equipment, such as booms, fishing rods and microphones, used for amplification and recording

communicate with production staff and performers to determine the sound requirements

apply technical knowledge of sound recording equipment to achieve the determined artistic objectives

record sound onto digital audio tape or hard disk recorders

monitor audio signals to detect sound-quality deviations or malfunctions

anticipate and correct any faults

maintain and repair sound equipment

comply with all relevant health and safety legislation.

Working in post-production, you'll need to:

integrate (synchronise) pre-recorded audio (dialogue, sound effects and music) with visual content

re-record and synchronise audio (post-syncing)

mix, edit and balance speech, effects and music

create and alter sound effects for use in films, television, etc.

For large-scale operations, such as film productions, you'll usually work within sound teams. There are often separate sound teams for production and post-production. The job of a sound team is essentially to follow or interpret the instructions of the director, sound designer or sound supervisor.

You'll also need to liaise with other departments on set, such as art, camera, costume, lighting and locations.

Salary

In an established studio, or in television and radio, starting salaries may be in the region of £17,000 to £19,000. With experience, salaries can rise upwards of £30,000. Supplements for unsocial hours may be available.

Freelance work is common and in these instances you must be prepared to negotiate rates according to your experience and the type of production. Recommended rates of pay are set by the Broadcasting, Entertainment, Cinematograph and Theatre Union (BECTU). Daily rates for third sound assistants are around £160 to £176, depending on the number of hours worked.

Second sound assistants can typically earn between £230 and £352, depending on hours worked and the type of production (e.g. low or high budget TV or film, or commercials), rising to between £310 and £434.50 for first sound assistants.

Rates vary depending on the actual role and type of production, the budget, your skills and experience, and length of the working day.

Income figures are intended as a guide only.

Working hours

You'll frequently have to work long days and unsocial hours including evenings, nights and weekends. The working day can last between 10 and 12 hours.

In order to work on breaking stories, meet tight deadlines and ensure the creative process is not interrupted, you'll often be required to adopt a flexible working pattern.

What to expect

You'll work in multiple locations, such as recording studios, film or television sets or on location, and the job can involve travel and long periods away from home - especially in the field of motion picture production. You may have to work outside in all weathers.

If you work as a freelance sound technician, you may face uncertainty around job security, as you'll mostly work on fixed-term contracts for broadcasting or production companies.

The broadcasting industry typically offers a higher percentage of salaried posts. However, large employers, such as the BBC, often take on freelancers to cover peak periods of work.

Steps to improve the diversity of the industry's workforce are being made by the Creative Diversity Network.

You'll need stamina, self-motivation and patience for this job as you may be working in challenging situations and to tight deadlines.

Qualifications

While you don't need a degree to become a sound technician, it's important to show a good understanding of the physics of sound, technical aptitude (including an awareness of current sound technology and equipment), good aural skills, excellent communication skills and attention to detail.

A good general education is useful. GCSEs or A-levels in maths and physics, and qualifications in electronics are particularly beneficial.

Having a degree or HND in one of the following subjects may increase your chances of success:

acoustics and music

audio engineering or production

media production/technology

music and sound production/music production

music/audio technology

sound/music engineering

technical theatre.

Find details of accredited sound-related undergraduate and postgraduate courses at Joint Audio Media Education Support (JAMES). You can also search postgraduate courses in sound.

If you don't have a degree you could take a relevant course to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. Level 2 and 3 vocational courses are available in areas such as music technology, music/sound production, sound engineering and creative digital media production.

You could also get into the role via an apprenticeship, combining paid work with part-time study. Relevant apprenticeships include broadcast production assistant and creative venue technician. Search Find an apprenticeship.

You'll need to build up a sound portfolio that you can show to employers. This could be in the form of a showreel or website. Try to include clips of your best audio work that cover both production and post-production sound. For tips on how to build a sound portfolio, see ScreenSkills.

Skills

You'll need to have:

interest in, and knowledge of, broadcast and recorded sound

technical ability in operating sound equipment

dexterity and agility in handling sound equipment

physical fitness as work in the sound department, for example operating a boom, can be physically demanding

good aural and critical listening skills in order to assess audio quality

creativity

good interpersonal and communication skills to build strong working relationships within the sound team and with members of the broader production team

the ability to work well as part of a team and a collaborative approach to programme making

the ability to use your initiative

problem-solving ability

excellent attention to detail

a good sense of timing and swift reactions

a flexible approach to work and a positive attitude to the changing nature of production

the ability to accept criticism and constructive feedback

the ability to work well under pressure and to deadlines

persistence and determination.

Work experience

Competition for trainee roles is fierce, so you'll need practical experience to get a foot in the door. You could look for part-time work or placements in recording and editing studios, or with community and hospital radio stations. It may also be possible to get a work placement with the larger broadcasting, media and production companies.

Get involved in projects such as the rigging and sound for amateur theatre productions, community projects or local musicians. You could also work on student film or radio projects.

You could also get experience by working as a roadie, loading, unloading and setting up sound equipment. This could help you develop contacts with sound technicians. Work experience with a rental company can also bring you into contact with sound mixers who are looking to hire kit for jobs.

Experience of working for equipment manufacturers can also be helpful as it will build up your technical knowledge.

Any experience that helps to create contacts in the industry, for example attending workshops and talks by people in the industry, will be useful. Make sure you also practise recording and editing sound at every opportunity.

Find out more about the different kinds of work experience and internships that are available.

Employers

Sound technicians are employed in many industries including broadcasting (radio or television), live performance (theatre, music and dance), advertising, music production and film.

The range of potential employers is huge and includes:

public service broadcasters - BBC, ITV, Channel 4, STV, S4C and Channel 5

streaming services that produce their own content, such as Netflix, Amazon and Disney+

media and entertainment companies such as Sky

major film studios such as The Walt Disney Studios, Universal Pictures, Paramount Pictures and Sony Pictures Entertainment

commercial and corporate film and TV production companies

specialist programme makers

music industry producers and studios

facilities houses - businesses that offer the broadcasting and entertainment industries facilities such as post-production services and audio correction

independent radio.

Look for job vacancies at:

Many sound technicians are freelancers, working across different sectors of the sound industry. To be successful, you'll need to build a professional reputation and make your own contacts through networking and speculative applications.

Attending media events and conventions can help you network with people in the industry and develop useful contacts.

You can also use specialist directories that provide useful contacts for making speculative applications for freelance work. They include:

If you're interested in freelancing, find out more about self-employment.

Professional development

You'll learn practical sound technician skills on the job by working in sound teams or alongside more experienced technicians.

However, many sound technicians work on a freelance basis and you'll need to take responsibility for your own training and professional development throughout your career. This includes keeping up to date with new and developing sound technologies.

You can develop your skills and widen your areas of expertise by taking short professional or technical training courses. For a list of industry-relevant courses, search ScreenSkills - Training and opportunities. They also have resources to help develop your career.

Professional associations, guilds and organisations are also useful sources for training courses, events, seminars and networking opportunities. Relevant associations include:

Career prospects

You're most likely to start off as a trainee, sound assistant, runner or administrator, and progress to more specialist or senior positions. You can expect to spend two years in a trainee/assistant role, developing your specialist knowledge and technical skills, before you progress.

There are many roles within both production and post-production, including:

production - sound assistant, sound technician, sound recordist, boom operator, supervisor and sound mixer

post-production - sound editor, dialogue editor, music editor, re-recording mixer/dubbing mixer, Foley artist (sound effects) and Foley editor (post-synchronised sound effects).

Some large employers have developed structured career paths for their sound technicians and may grade them as junior, middle and senior.

Promotion beyond the senior grade involves moving into management or moving from small or regional companies to large, national or international ones. There may be support for this in the form of training schemes, in-house development schemes and various other career development opportunities.

Many sound technicians work on a freelance basis. To further your career, you'll need to develop a reputation for excellent work, as well as a range of industry contacts. Strong networking skills are important and the ability to promote yourself and your work.

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Sound technicians use technical knowledge and expertise to produce and manipulate the sound for performances and recordings As a sound technician, it's your responsibility to assemble, operate and maintain the technical equipment used to record, amplify, enhance, mix or reproduce sound.

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If you're a creative type who wants to research, interview and write, then a career in magazine journalism might be for you

Magazine journalists research and write news articles and features for a variety of publications, usually periodicals, including:

consumer titles which cover both general interest and specialist areas

customer magazines from shops, supermarkets, etc

trade publications, also known as business-to-business (B2B) magazines.

These titles will usually be printed, but many magazines are also produced for the web. Knowledge of the concise writing style needed for the internet and search engine optimisation (SEO) are very useful skills.

As well as writing, as a magazine journalist you may also get involved in the production of the publication, taking on sub-editing and designing. For magazine journalists entering the profession at graduate level, job titles include staff writer, graduate writer and journalism trainee.

There are thousands of magazine titles in the UK and, while there are plenty of opportunities, competition can be fierce when finding a job.

Responsibilities

Your workload will vary depending on the size of your employer. If you've gone freelance, your workload will depend on the subject matter and how the magazine is published.

Your responsibilities will typically include:

researching a subject and story

writing and editing news stories and features in the publication's house style

ensuring work is well written, accurate and submitted to deadline

conducting interviews, either in person or remotely

attending seminars, conferences and fairs (some magazine publishers hold exhibitions and events to allow advertisers to meet their readership)

generating ideas for stories

sourcing images to accompany written pieces

meeting with colleagues to plan the content of the issue and the character of the publication

keeping up to date with trends and developments relating to the magazine's subject matter.

Freelance journalists spend time networking and building up relationships with publications and their staff. Self-employed freelancers also need to negotiate their own rates, bookkeep and be self-motivated. You'll need to consistently pitch ideas to interested publications to constantly secure new work.

On smaller magazines, the role of a magazine journalist might include all of these activities plus administrative work. It may also involve an element of sub-editing, proofing your own or another writers copy, as well as some design work.

Many magazines have an online presence and you may cover the same topics for the website. You will need to adapt your writing style for online journalism.

Salary

At entry level typical starting salaries range from £15,000 to £26,000, although many are as low as £12,000.

With experience, your salary is often negotiable. Senior staff (senior staff writer, sub-editor or features editor) usually earn between £18,000 and £35,000.

If you work on a major publication or become editor-in-chief of a magazine, your salary will be anything from £22,000 to £65,000+.

Many graduates work in minimum wage internships and jobs in order to gain experience before securing a paid job.

Freelance fees vary according to your experience and ability, but the average freelance fee per 1,000 words is £700 for a large magazine, or £420 for a smaller consumer magazine. For a comprehensive guide to freelance rates, see the National Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Salary levels depend mainly on the location, size and popularity of the magazine. Salaries in London and the South East are generally higher and opportunities more plentiful.

Income figures are intended as a guide only.

Working hours

This is not a 9am to 5pm job. Copy deadlines may mean irregular hours and unsocial hours are common.

Part-time work and career breaks are possible.

What to expect

With much of magazine journalism now being outsourced, freelancing is more common and the majority of magazine copy is written by freelancers. Many people make successful careers as freelance magazine journalists, contributing pieces to a variety of publications.

Women are well represented on consumer magazines.

The work provides the opportunity to meet a range of people beyond your own circle of colleagues, but long hours, tight deadlines, and writing for the public domain can be stressful.

Travel within the working day is often necessary and you may occasionally need to be away from home overnight.

Overseas work and travel is not uncommon, especially if you are working for a travel or international trade magazine.

Many magazine journalists will have started out at local newspapers and have a solid background in news writing. On the other hand, some journalists move straight into specialist writing depending on their degree, e.g. engineering, science or computing.

MA Creative Writing

Study creative writing and turn your passion into a lifelong career

Qualifications

Although not strictly necessary, most new magazine journalists have a degree. However, entry without a degree or HND is possible, as experience and determination count for a lot in the industry.

Numerous universities offer undergraduate journalism or media degrees, while there are also postgraduate qualifications (Masters and certificates/diplomas). Many of these courses are accredited by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ). It's possible to take NCTJ courses and qualifications at colleges and via distance learning.

While these qualifications are not essential, they'll give you a good grounding in writing, interviewing, sub-editing, design and layout, shorthand and media law. 73% of qualified journalists are NCTJ-trained.

If you're undertaking a journalism qualification, become a student member of the NUJ. Look for other journalistic organisations, like Women in Journalism that have membership for students as this will provide great networking opportunities and perhaps even a tip-off about possible job vacancies.

Entry into journalism is very competitive, with many people applying for every vacancy. The industry is growing, but the number of training vacancies is not increasing proportionately. This is because much of the growth is in small publishers, who don't run training schemes. Entry into popular consumer magazines is particularly competitive, but openings with specialist technical and scientific journals, or trade and business magazines, may be easier to find.

In an attempt to offset the comparatively small number of ethnic minority journalists, the NUJ has set up the Journalism Diversity Fund to support the training of journalists from ethnically and socially diverse backgrounds.

The George Viner Memorial Fund has been established by the industry to help those who want to take industry-recognised pre-entry courses, but lack the money to do so. It's aimed at people without the financial means to attend NCTJ training courses. Applicants need to demonstrate a genuine commitment to journalism and the potential to be successful.

To get started, search postgraduate courses in magazine journalism.

Skills

You will need to show:

excellent writing skills

a proactive approach to investigating and good research skills

determination and persistence

strong interpersonal skills

a demonstrable interest in the subject of the magazine

IT skills and familiarity with commonly used software, such as HTML, Photoshop, Java, QuarkXPress and InDesign.

You may also consider learning shorthand. Although you may not need it for all magazine employment, it's invaluable for accurate and speedy note-taking - the golden rate to achieve is 100 words per minute - as well as proving your commitment and dedication to journalism.

Work experience

Pre-entry experience, either paid or unpaid, is absolutely essential. It will give you first-hand knowledge of the industry and demonstrate to employers your ability to thrive in a pressured environment.

Very few structured work experience or training schemes exist. Contact magazines directly, showing an enthusiasm for their subject matter and ask if they have a scheme or if they can offer you some work experience.

Get involved in student newspapers, magazines, radio stations, internal television circuits or even start your own blog, which can help towards developing your writing style and interviewing techniques.

Employers

There is a huge variety of magazine titles in the UK, ranging from women's 'glossies' to specialist journals and everything in between.

Many of the large multi-title publishing houses are based in London and have international offices. These include:

New graduates should also look to local magazines and lifestyle publications, either independently owned or overseen by larger companies. Don't discount local and national newspapers, as many produce at least one magazine.

There is also the free, consumer sector of magazines that are available to readers on trains and planes, supermarkets and DIY shops. Check each periodical to see who publishes them and creates the content copy.

Many large corporations, such as the BBC, oil companies and big banks, produce in-house magazines which require journalists. Professional organisations, clubs and membership associations, such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and the National Trust, also produce magazines.

Business-to-business (B2B) magazines and trade journals are also a good place to hone your writing skills and develop a specialist area. There is a title to suit almost every topic, so whether you would like to write about restaurants in Manchester or the adhesive industry, there will be a magazine out there for you.

Many opportunities are not advertised and speculative applications are a common way of securing a job. Where there is no central recruiting point, you should apply directly to the editor of the magazine or journal.

Freelancers and speculative job hunters rely on directories such as the Writers' and Artists' Yearbook to find editors' details. For a comprehensive list of all newspaper and magazine titles in the UK, see media.info. Try to build up your own personalised list of contacts by using sites such as LinkedIn.

If you're considering freelancing, make sure you target the right magazines for your article. Call or email editors with an idea for an article relevant to their publication and be on the look-out for events or stories with a local interest. You may be able to persuade your local newspaper to publish your work. Even reviewing products, theatre or films can add to your portfolio. For sound advice and information and to advertise your services online see Journalism.co.uk.

Look for job vacancies at:

You can also find vacancies in the local and national press.

Professional development

Trainees with big publishing houses receive structured training in:

reporting

writing

proofreading

sub-editing

layout and design

production

law for journalists.

Smaller organisations that recruit directly may not be able to provide such opportunities.

The Periodicals Training Council (PTC) is the training arm of the Professional Publishers Association (PPA), the magazine industry body.

Courses run by the NCTJ, throughout the country and online, are well recognised in the industry. The NCTJ accredits courses at more than 40 colleges and universities across the country. The focus remains on newspaper journalism, but there are many more multimedia courses reflecting industry and societal changes in recent years.

Career prospects

There is no fixed career path in magazine journalism. You may progress from staff writer to sub-editor, section head and chief editor, or you may move across into marketing, television journalism or public relations (PR).

Freelancing is a realistic option, allowing more flexible working patterns and (perhaps) greater control over your own work. It is essential that you make contacts in the industry - editors are more likely to give work to someone they can trust - and that you are willing to be flexible about the work you take on.

Commercial awareness is essential for progression. As a freelancer, you have to be able to sell your work, or if you work for a magazine, you need to have ideas about how to increase your readership.

Journalism is a fast-moving and fast-changing career where it pays to keep abreast of new developments in media and communications. Try to keep up to date with new trends and any specialist subject matter you write about.

Training in technical skills, such as HTML, JavaScript and web design packages, could be useful. A number of colleges and private training providers offer short and part-time courses in these subjects.

Find out how Sirin became a journalist at BBC Bitesize.

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If you're a creative type who wants to research, interview and write, then a career in magazine journalism might be for you Magazine journalists research and write news articles and features for a variety of publications, usually periodicals, including: consumer titles which cover both general interest and specialist areas customer magazines from shops, supermarkets, etc trade publications, also known as business-to-business (B2B) magazines.

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Planit : Job Profiles : Teacher - Secondary School - Music Secondary School Teaching

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Planit : Job Profiles : Musician - Classical Music

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Planit : Job Profiles : Musician - Popular Music

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Promotions managers are responsible for encouraging sales within the music industry. Other job titles that may be used include plugger, music agent or promoter. They may work for individual artists/bands, a record company or a venue.

The Work

There are a number of different areas within music promotions and publishing, including artists and repertoire (A&R - signing and promoting music acts), copyright and legal matters, production, sales and marketing and accounts.

You could be:

listening to new performers and deciding whether to take them on

negotiating contracts and advising your clients on legal matters, such as copyright

arranging with radio stations and TV channels such as MTV to broadcast your clients' music (known as 'plugging')

writing press releases and producing promotional CDs and DVDs

arranging publicity events such as newspaper or TV interviews

working with designers and printers to produce marketing material such as posters and leaflets

organising one-off gigs or full tours for your clients, nationally or abroad

keeping the accounts, staying within the budget

networking with other professionals in the entertainment industry to make contacts.

You would usually specialise in one area. For example, if you work for a venue, as a concert promoter, you could be:

attending performances to scout for acts for your venue

contacting performers or their agents and booking dates

keeping the venue diary full for weeks ahead while avoiding double bookings

arranging to produce and distribute marketing material

getting the entertainments licence

organising technical equipment and security

finding a replacement act if a performer cancels.

Pay

Pay varies widely in this kind of work. The following figures are only a guide.

As a new entrant building up contacts you might earn between £16,000 and £19,000 a year.

Once established as a promotions manager you can earn from £24,000 to £50,000 a year.

If exceptionally successful, you might reach £70,000 a year or more.

Your income may be partly or entirely through commission, based on a percentage of your clients' earnings (usually 15-20%), or on how many times a particular track is played. You might get perks such as free concert tickets and other promotional gifts.

Conditions

Hours are irregular, can be long and include evenings and weekends.

The job involves travelling and overnight stays, perhaps abroad.

Promotions managers are office based but spend time in noisy venues.

Work may be on a freelance (self-employed) basis or short contracts.

Workforce Employment Status
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Useful Subjects

Getting In

Entry is very competitive and getting in largely depends on making contacts in the industry.

Knowledge and experience of the music world matter more than educational qualifications.

It helps if you have experience of working on events - perhaps a holiday job or organising social events at college or university.

Useful subjects to study at college or from home include popular music, marketing, communications, the mass media, accounts and contract law. There are courses available at various levels: NC/NQ (SCQF Level 4-6), HNC (SCQF Level 7), HND (SCQF Level 8) or degree (SCQF Level 9-10) level.

A number of colleges in Scotland offer HNC, HND and degree courses in music business: Edinburgh College, Glasgow Kelvin College, Perth College UHI and the University of the Highlands and Islands.

To get on an HNC/HND course you normally need 1-2 Highers or equivalent and entry requirements for a degree are 4-5 Highers.

You might start as an unpaid intern, through volunteering or in a junior position doing general duties.

A driving licence is useful and sometimes necessary.

Health and safety and first aid certificates are useful.

The UK is the second largest source of repertoire in the world (after USA) and is the third largest market in the world for sales of music.

You might start off in a junior administration job or as a runner (see the Runner job profile) within a radio, television or record company and watch out for a vacancy arising in a relevant department, such as marketing.
Workforce Education Levels (UK)
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Job Outlook Scotland

Job Outlook Scotland and UK

What Does it Take?

You should have:

good business sense

excellent negotiation and networking skills

a good ear for music

initiative

confidence and assertiveness

the ability to work under pressure

excellent knowledge of modern music or a specialist field of music

good organisational skills.

You should also be:

passionate about music

creative

energetic, motivated and driven

resilient and persistent.

Training

Training is mainly on the job.

The Music Managers' Forum (MMF) offers those in the business advice, workshops, networking opportunities, and a range of short courses from MMF Training.

Getting On

Success depends on making a wide range of contacts in the music industry. Once you have managed this, you might work freelance.

You could go on to specialise in a particular field, such as legal advice.

More Information

The Creative and Cultural Skills website has a careers section called Creative Choices which covers information, jobs and opportunities in music, including promotions.

Video

Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.

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Promotions managers are responsible for encouraging sales within the music industry. Other job titles that may be used include plugger, music agent or promoter. They may work for individual artists/bands, a record company or a venue.

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Develop your skills on a unique new programme from the top UK modern university for Music and embrace a variety of musical styles and genres.

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Portfolio Advice: Music | SACI | Edinburgh Napier

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At Edinburgh Napier University, we nurture talent and create knowledge that shapes communities all around the world.

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Study Music at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, a World Top Ten institution for performing arts.

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The official Youtube channel of Scotland’s national conservatoire, a World Top 10 institution for the Performing Arts (QS World Rankings 2024)

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University of Glasgow - Undergraduate study - 2024 Degree programmes A‑Z - Music BMus

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The BMus is a single-subject degree for those who are interested in pursuing a career in music. It provides a strong grounding in core disciplines and allows you to pursue your specialist interests in third and fourth years.

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At the Reid School of Music, we are committed to thinking differently about music and helping students make a rich contribution to cultural life when they graduate.

We do this by examining the social contexts where music thrives, studying how sound and music affect mind and body, learning about musical acoustics and technologies, and creating, performing and sharing music in all of its forms across the capital of Scotland.

Working with you is a dedicated team of staff who lead their fields as performers, composers, sonic artists, historians, community activists and scientists, ready to share their knowledge, experience and enthusiasm directly with you.

Based in the centre of Edinburgh, you'll have ready access to several concert halls, spaces to rehearse your band, setup your gig or practice in one of our Steinway School piano rooms. In addition, the UKs top musicians regularly visit to give concerts and masterclasses. Your experience is further enriched by our ensemble in residence programme, open mic nights, and busy student-led music societies creating performance opportunities across genres from orchestra to music theatre, experimental, jazz and traditional music.

Subject area video

Introducing the Reid School of Music

Dr Martin Parker, former Head of the Reid School of Music, gives an overview of Music at Edinburgh College of Art.

Stats

Why choose us?

1

You'll study in a School with a long and distinguished history and a broad view of music, combining tradition with innovation, theory with practice.

2

We are home to two extraordinary historic concert halls, unique collections of musical instruments, a world-class music library and well-equipped studios.

3

Our Music Society is widely regarded as one of Scotland's best, and our city is a rich cultural resource of orchestras, ensembles, choirs, world music groups and venues.

4

Our students can take courses from across ECA and the University of Edinburgh, and we have strong links with the local community and partner organisations.

5

We focus on small group and individual teaching by leading experts who are passionate about music and the role it plays in multiple aspects of human life.

An all-Steinway school

ECA is one of a handful of institutions with the prestigious all-Steinway status. This means that all pianos owned by us are designed by Steinway & Sons. Students, staff and guest musicians, Piano Circus, gathered in June 2019 for a spectacular one-off performance, marking the arrival of 27 new Steinway pianos.

Events

Concerts at the University, research seminars and events

We host a number of events including a free public lunchtime concert series, research seminars and open mic nights throughout the course of the academic year.

Find out more about our events

Our programmes in music

We have a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes on offer.

Undergraduate Postgraduate

Related research
See all our groups and clusters

News and features
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At the Reid School of Music, we are committed to thinking differently about music and helping students make a rich contribution to cultural life when they graduate. We do this by examining the social contexts where music thrives, studying how sound and music affect mind and body, learning about musical acoustics and technologies, and creating, performing and sharing music in all of its forms across the capital of Scotland.

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Music at Aberdeen is your opportunity to learn, compose and perform with world-renowned composers, conductors, musicologists and researchers working across all genres, styles and periods. We have first-class facilities and instruments and unrivalled opportunities within a vibrant musical scene in north-east Scotland. Study Music at the University of Aberdeen for your undergraduate degree, postgraduate taught or research degree!

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750 million+ members | Manage your professional identity. Build and engage with your professional network. Access knowledge, insights and opportunities.

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750 million+ members | Manage your professional identity. Build and engage with your professional network. Access knowledge, insights and opportunities.

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750 million+ members | Manage your professional identity. Build and engage with your professional network. Access knowledge, insights and opportunities.

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UHI - University of the Highlands & Islands

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UHI - University of the Highlands & Islands

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© UHI
Registered office: UHI House, Old Perth Road, Inverness, IV2 3JH
Contact us
Accessibility Statement

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UK Music is the collective voice of the UK’s world-leading music industry. We represent all sectors of our industry – bringing them together to collaborate, campaign, and champion music.

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Copyright © 2024. This website and its content is subject to our General Terms of Business.

Tes Global Ltd is registered in England (Company No 02017289) with its registered office at Building 3, St Paul's Place, Norfolk Street, Sheffield, S1 2JE

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Teaching and education jobs worldwide | Tes

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The largest selection of academic, education and teaching job vacancies for primary schools, secondary schools and special needs schools in the UK.

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MusicTeachers.co.uk - Register for private music lessons

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With MusicTeachers.co.uk you can find a professional music teacher in your area and book lessons in a wide range instruments. We have teachers all over the UK and are truly a nationwide music school. Find a qualified and professional teacher near you today!

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Young is a music and arts organisation founded in London. We release records, manage artists and publish writers. We also curate, produce and promote creative works.

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Search results for tutors and private lessons - music

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Creative Scotland distributes funding for the arts, screen and creative industries from two primary sources, the Scottish Government and the National Lottery. This funding is the means by which we support a portfolio of organisations across Scotland, as well as how we help with the development of individuals, the funding of ideas, new work and projects, and how we deliver specific activity with partners.

In this section you'll find everything you need to know about how our funding works, and the help that's available when pulling together an application. If you're not sure which is the right funding programme for you can take a look at our Funding FAQs. Alternately please get in touch with our Enquiries Service who can help answer any questions you have. And if you want to be kept up to date by email, sign up for our Funding Updates.

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Creative Scotland distributes funding for the arts, screen and creative industries from two primary sources, the Scottish Government and the National Lottery. This funding is the means by which we support a portfolio of organisations across Scotland, as well as how we help with the development of individuals, the funding of ideas, new work and projects, and how we deliver specific activity with partners.

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Funding & Finance

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Funding awards can be fiercely competitive, but artists can improve their chance of success by applying only for the opportunities that match to their circumstances or ideas and by completing application forms as accurately and effectively as possible.

Funding bodies and awards for musicians

Some of the most popular funding bodies and awards include:

Arts Council England (ACE)

Arts Council England champions, develops and invests in artistic and cultural experiences that enrich people's lives. We invest money from government and the National Lottery in arts and culture across England. This funds a wide range of activities - from theatre to digital art, reading to dance, music to literature, crafts to collections.

ACE offers a range of funding opportunities for both artists and arts organisations including. Awards available for artists include:

Artists International Development Fund offers early stage development opportunities for individual freelance and self employed artists based in England to spend time building links with artists, organisations and/or creative producers in another country. NB: applications are not yet being accepted for this fund.

Grants for the Arts is our Lottery-funded grant programme for individuals, arts organisations and other people who use the arts in their work. Grants are available for activities carried out over a set period and which engage people in England in arts activities and help artists and arts organisations in England carry out their work.

PRS for Music Foundation

Our mission is to stimulate and support the creation and performance of new music throughout the UK and to ensure that this music is enjoyed by a wide audience. Since March 2000 we have supported over 4,600 new music initiatives to the tune of over £19.5 million.

We do this through open grant schemes which are available to musicians and organisations four times per year and partnership programmes which we lead in response to specific needs and gaps in funding. PRS Music Foundation

Current funding opportunities for artists include:

Open Funding: This supports 1) the creation and performance of outstanding new music in any genre 2) developing artists to their full potential and 3) inspiring audiences.

Momentum funding: Grants of £5k-£15k for artists and bands to break through to the next level of their career.

International Showcase Fund: Run in partnership with British Underground, UK Trade & Investment, Arts Council England and The MU, the International Showcase Fund offers support for UK artists to reach a worldwide audience through performing at key showcasing festivals and conferences.

Women Make Music: Financial support of up to £5000 is available, and new music in any genre is welcome.

Bliss Trust Composer Bursaries: We partner with The Bliss Trust to support emerging composers living and working in the UK who are seeking funds to assist with professional development in the field of contemporary classical music.

Help Musicians UK

Do it Differently: A pivotal new fund for independent music creators, offering 360-degree support benefits across creative, wellbeing and business development.

MOBO Help Musicians Fund: MOBO and HMUK are thrilled to be working together to offer grants of up to £2000 for individuals and £3000 for groups to support exceptional talent to achieve their career ambitions.

Fusion Fund: Our fund exclusively supporting periods of collaboration and research development.

Transmission Fund: This fund provides financial support to enable professional musicians to access creative and professional development opportunities both within the UK and internationally.

Peter Whittingham Jazz Award: HMUK's annual award for emerging Jazz musicians and bands.

Postgraduate Awards: Funding dedicated to assisting musicians with post-graduate study through selected institutions.

National Grants Programme: Offering open access funding for three years to organisations working with musicians on artistic practice, talent and professional development initiatives.

National & Regional Opportunities: HMUK do have Creative Programme opportunities that are specific to our regions, currently Northern Ireland and Scotland.

BPI

The Music Export Growth Scheme was launched in 2014 and offers small and medium-sized music companies with the potential to achieve increased international success the opportunity to apply for grants ranging from £5,000 to £50,000. The grants support their marketing overseas and the promotion of specific artist releases.

The scheme, funded by UKTI, will make up to £3m of grants available over a three-year period - with the potential for further funding following the scheme's first annual review. Applications are open to all UK independent record labels and music management companies meeting the application criteria. Decisions on individual awards will be made by a panel of music industry experts with marketing expertise from organisations including the Music Managers Forum (MMF), representatives of independent record labels and BPI. The scheme will be administered by BPI.

Creative Scotland

Creative Scotland distributes funding from two primary sources, the Scottish Government and the National Lottery. As well as supporting arts organisations across Scotland, support is also available for the development of individuals, the funding of ideas, and new work and projects.

Cultural Enterprise Office

The Cultural Enterprise Office provides business support to creative businesses across Scotland. These include guides to funding available from a range of sources and to making applications and proposals.

Arts Council of Northern Ireland

The Arts Council of Northern Ireland supports the full range of arts activities throughout Northern Ireland. As well as funding arts organisations there are a range of support schemes for individuals.

Arts Council of Wales

The Arts Council of Wales is the official body that funds and develops the arts in Wales. The funding they distribute comes from both the Welsh Government and The National Lottery. Most of the funding goes to artists and arts organisations carrying out programmes of work across Wales.

Sometimes they also run their own projects, especially where these explore new areas of arts activity, or help to persuade other organisations to take an interest in the arts.

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Music Finance & Funding Advice for Musicians & Artists | The MU

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Funding awards can be fiercely competitive, but artists can improve their chance of success by applying only for the opportunities that match to their circumstances or ideas and by completing application forms as accurately and effectively as possible.

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Music for All - Community Project Funding - Funding Scotland

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At the Music For All Charity they believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn to play music. They make grants available to address the musical needs of community music groups and educational organisations. They support projects and initiatives taking place throughout the UK that all aim to bring music to their community and would benefit from a “helping hand” to fulfil their potential in becoming truly sustainable music programmes.Grants are available under a number of different categories, each with their own criteria and award amounts. See the Music for All website for full details of these. Funding Round 4 offers instrument awards in four areas for community groups/projects:1) Working with primary-school aged children2) Working with diverse communities from the Global Majority, in collaboration with Black Lives in Music3) Learning and cognitive challenges4) Guitars (electric) + amplifier + cable

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The Hope Scott Trust was set up by the late Mrs Hope Scott to help promote Music and the Visual Arts in Scotland. The Trust allocates a proportion of its resources to help musicians with commissions or grants for musical events and it also helps artists and sculptors (with a particular focus on emerging artists) with grants for exhibitions, catalogues and travel etc. Preference is given to applicants who are Scottish by birth, or live permanently in Scotland.

Grants are not given to cover ordinary educational/course fees, except in exceptional cases. Grants are however given in some cases for additional tuition and associated travel costs in the UK and in other countries. Literary applications will not generally be considered, however, they may be considered if they are linked to an Exhibition or promotion of an Artist. The Trust's remit is strict and unfortunately we are unable to fund documentary film making, crafts, purchase of instruments and undergraduate studies. We also do not directly fund postgraduate students.

Applicants should be aware that grants very rarely exceed £2,000 and more commonly are for lesser sums. Please note the trust operates a no repeats policy and will not consider repeat applications from successful applicants within 3 years. Intending applicants are asked to bear in mind that the trust has limited funds. The trustees would like to use the money at their disposal to help people and projects where there is a serious financial need.

The trustees meet three times a year usually in March, June and October. Applicants will be informed of the trustees' decision as soon as possible after the meeting.
Deadline for applications: Sunday, 1 October 2023 (midnight) Please note late applications will not be accepted. Next meeting: Monday, 30 October 2023
If you wish to apply for funding from the Trust please follow the instructions below:

1. Please fill in your chosen application form with description and aims.

2. Add supporting documentation (references, budget, CV, images [no more than 12 images] etc) to the end of the form or as links within the application form in Word. Please do not send Dropbox files or any additional attachments apart from the GDPR form found below.

3. For General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) reasons either print off the consent form and sign before scanning and submitting or use an online Esignature tool. Typewritten signatures are not acceptable.

4. Email your two separate documents to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

5. Please ensure your application is on time as late applications are not accepted.

If you require further information, please contact:
Amanda Farquhar-Scott
Grants Applications Administrator

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Gillian Forsyth
Trust Administrator

Telephone - direct line 0131 460 6491

Telephone - switchboard 0131 225 1200

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General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR)

The Hope Scott Trust is a Data Controller in terms of GDPR which came into effect on 25 May 2018. We would therefore ask you to read the Trust Privacy Notice here. Murray Beith Murray is a Data Processor and the Website Privacy Policy can be read here.
Special Categories of Data Consent Form Music
Visual Arts

The Hope Scott Trust is a charity registered in Scotland, No: SC016262

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Installation User - To be disabled on launch

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Hope Scott Trust | The Trust allocates a proportion of its resources to help musicians with commissions or grants for musical events & helps artists. Click for more

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Apply for Music Funding: Artist Grants & Support in 2025

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After a cash boost for your musical project? Get funding support and apply for music funding and grant opportunities to help you create music this year.

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14 grants, awards & funding opportunities for UK musicians in 2025

Ready to take your music career to the next level in 2025? We've done the legwork for you and gathered 14 of the best grants, funding opportunities and financial awards available to UK artists in 2025 - so get your applications ready and kick off 2025 with a bang!

Youth Music NextGen Fund - closes 7th February 2025

This fund offers grants of up to £2,500 for early-stage musicians and 'music adjacent creatives' in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. Grants are offered to support any individual pursuing a career directly in music (e.g. artist, producer, DJ, etc.) or in a wider music industry role (e.g. A&R, managers, agents, etc.).

Details here.

PRS International Showcase Fund - closes 31st March 2025

The International Showcase Fund (ISF) is a UK government fund that offers grants of up to £5,000 to UK-based artists, bands, songwriters and producers who have been invited to perform or create new music at international industry-facing events, including festivals, song writing camps or conferences.

To qualify you must have been formally invited to an event that's designed for music industry professionals, not the general public.

Details here.

PRS POWER UP - closes March 2025 (TBC)

The POWER UP Programme is designed to support the careers of music creators and industry professionals in the UK Black community. The Programme supports 20 Black music creators and 20 Black executives/industry professionals each year with grants of up to £15,000, mentoring, marketing support and networking opportunities.

Note: dates are not yet available for 2025, but the 2024 closing date was 21st March 2024.

Details here.

UD Music Incubator Programme - closes August 2025 (TBC)

The UD Incubator Programme is a unique opportunity for 10 artists to experience mentoring, investment, skills development and studio time over a period of 9 months as part of an industry bootcamp that equips participants with the skills they need to build their music career. It's exclusively available to artists who are under 25, living in London and of Black origin.

Note: the Incubator runs from September to May, with applications usually closing near the end of August - 2025's dates have not been released at the time of writing.

Details here.

PRS Hitmaker Fund - closes August 2025 (TBC)

The Hitmaker Fund offers grants of between £5,000 and £10,000 specifically for songwriters and producers to develop their careers. The Fund's goal is to support the behind-the-scenes workers in the music industry who have been overlooked for career support in the past.

Note: the opening and closing dates for 2025's PRS Hitmaker Fund are not yet confirmed, but there are usually multiple rounds of applications accepted throughout the year, ending in August.

Details here.

'Hello You!' Janice Long Bursary - closes August 2025 (TBC)

The Janice Long Bursary is a unique opportunity for artists or bands in the Folk, Rock, Indie, Psychedelic or Alternative genres to perform twice at the Moseley Folk & Arts Festival in Birmingham and receive further support too, including a professionally written bio, professional photoshoot, and support in the production of an EP or LP.

Note: the opening and closing dates are not yet confirmed but applications are likely to close in early August 2025.

Details here.

Women Make Music - closes September 2025 (TBC)

The PRS Foundation Women Make Music fund supports women, trans and non-binary songwriters, composers and artists/bands of all genres, backgrounds and career stages with grants of up to £5,000. The aim is to break down assumptions and stereotypes, raise awareness of the gender gap and increase the profile of women, trans and non-binary artists who are creating music in the UK.

Note: the opening and closing dates are not yet confirmed but applications are likely to close in September 2025.

Details here.

The Open Fund for Music Creators - closes September 2025 (TBC)

Open to music creators of all genres, backgrounds and career stages, the Open Fund awards grants of up to £5,000 to successful applicants to help them create new music and reach new audiences. Music creators are defined to be songwriters, composers, artists, bands and producers or performers who are involved in the composition/writing process.

Note: the 2025 deadlines are yet to be announced, but the final round of applications in 2024 closed in September.

Details here.

Next Level Award - closes October 2025 (TBC)

Next Level Awards are for musicians with a strong track record, but who are facing hurdles when embarking on larger and longer-term projects. The Award offers financial support, networking opportunities and one-to-one business advice to musicians of any genre.

Note: Next Level Awards open at various stages throughout the year. In 2024, applications were open: April to May, July to August and September to October.

Details here.

MOBO UnSung - closes November 2025 (TBC)

MOBO UnSung is a chance for 10 finalists to enter an artist development programme, where they're offered studio time, live performances, workshops, mentoring, A&R support and networking opportunities. Finalists are selected as a result of a screening process conducted by a judging panel who consider the quality of music, future potential, live performance skills and the quality of application.

Note: MOBO UnSung has not confirmed 2025 dates at the time of writing, but 2024's applications opened on 31st October at 9am and closed on 20th November at 6pm.

Details here.

PPL Momentum Music Fund - closes November 2025 (TBC)

The PPL Momentum Music Fund offers grants of between £5,000 and £15,000 to UK artists or bands. The Fund is designed to help artists break through to the next level of their career, providing financial support for recording, touring, marketing and other eligible activities.

Note: the opening and closing dates for 2025's PPL Momentum Music Fund are not yet confirmed, but there are usually multiple rounds of applications accepted throughout the year, ending in November.

Details here.

Help Musicians Fast Track Awards - closes November 2025 (TBC)

The Fast Track Awards offered by Help Musicians are a £500 grant to support musicians at a pivotal moment in their career with a short turnaround time. Grants can be awarded to fund instruments or equipment, opportunities (e.g. travel to a gig, touring, studio hire, etc), or skills development (e.g. conference registration fees, lessons, mentoring/coaching).

Note: Fast Track Awards open at various stages throughout the year. In 2024, applications were open: May to June, July, August to September and October to November.

Details here.

Steve Reid InNOVAtion Award - deadline TBC

The Steve Reid InNOVAtion Award, funded by the Steve Reid Foundation and PRS Foundation, supports emerging artists with mentorship and bursaries of up to £1,500. The Award is given to artists who are not managed or signed to a label and who can demonstrate that the bursary and mentorship will have a significant positive impact on their music career.

Note: applications are not yet open for 2025 and the closing date is unknown.

Details here.

Peter Whittingham Jazz Award - deadline TBC

Established in 1990, the Peter Whittingham Jazz Award awards £5,000 grants and one-to-one business advice to jazz creators (artists or bands) in the early stages of their careers.

Note: dates for the next funding round aren't available at the time of writing, but Help Musicians recommends signing up to their mailing list to be notified.

Details here.

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2025 Funding, Grants & Awards for UK Musicians - Identity Music

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Explore funding, grants & awards designed to help musicians in the UK grow their careers, learn new skills & develop their talents in the music industry. Updated with 2025 application deadlines.

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Independent Society of Musicians - Funding

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Independent Society of Musicians - Funding

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Youth Music NextGen Fund | Funding Opportunity

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This fund offers young creatives grants of up to £2,500 to make their ideas happen.