In the dynamic world of music, technology has become a game changer, revolutionizing the industry and creating a plethora of new job opportunities.
So, whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, stay tuned as we explore the top music technology jobs that are shaping the future of the industry.
Music Technology Jobs
Previous sections have explored the impact of technology on the music industry and the emergence of various job avenues within it. This section delves deeper into the realm of music technology jobs, shedding light on their evolution and the key roles that define the industry.
Top Music Technology Jobs Today
Music technology jobs presents a plethora of exciting career opportunities. Two of the most regarded professions under its vast canopy are those of a Sound Engineer and Music Producer.
Sound Engineer
Sound Engineers, often the unsung heroes, possess the tech prowess to fine-tune every decibel of music. They reign with a range of hard skills depending on the nature of the job. Live Sound Engineers, for instance, manage the audio equipment to produce the highest quality sound during live events, demonstrating mastery over audio mixers that can have dozens of channels. On the other hand, Studio Sound Engineers thrive in recording studios, championing the manipulation of sounds post-recording to ensure a pristine sonic quality. Qualifying these roles, in 2019, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics listed 17,300 audio and video technician roles with a median pay of $45,510.
| Job Role | Number in 2019 | Median Pay (USD) |
| Sound Engineer | 17,300 | 45,510 |
In order to excel in their roles, sound engineers must possess an array of technical skills, demonstrate patience during repeated recordings, and showcase communication skills when interacting with artists. The path to becoming a sound engineer often begins with a degree in music technology, audio engineering, or a related field, but it doesn’t stop there. It’s a career that thrives on constant learning and evolution, with new technologies introducing new ways to record, mix, and master music.
Music Producer
While music may be the soul of the industry, sting of creative choices lifts Music Producers to their pivotal role. They command control over the production, mixing, and sometimes, even the commercial dimension of a music track. Taking an example, legendary producer Pharrell Williams brilliantly exemplifies these roles, and in 2014, earned a Grammy for Producer of the Year.
How to Break Into the Industry
In light of technological advancements in music, it’s necessary for those aspiring to join the industry to adapt to this evolving landscape. This section offers a roadmap to breaking into music technology jobs and standing apart in this competitive domain.
Networking and Internships
Affording paramount importance, networking presents diverse opportunities for establishing relationships within the industry. It opens doors to internships, collaborations, and potential job offers. For instance, attending industry events, music technology conferences, and workshops allows aspiring professionals to connect with industry leaders and experts. Here, they can gain insights about the latest trends or technologies, learning how these are affecting existing job roles.
Building a Portfolio
Equally vital, building a comprehensive, quality portfolio can highlight an individual’s technical know-how and creative capabilities. A well-rounded portfolio might include compositions highlighting proficiency in digital audio workstations (DAWs), VR concert designs, or even audio techniques using AI technology. With varying skills demonstrated, a portfolio can display the candidate’s adaptability and preparedness for the evolving industry demands.
The music technology jobs landscape is ever-changing, brimming with opportunities for those with the right mix of technical skills and creativity. As VR, AR, Blockchain, IoT, ML, and AI continue to evolve, they’re not only reshaping the industry but also spawning new roles such as Digital Music Analysts, AI Audio Engineers, and VR Concert Designers. It’s clear that breaking into this dynamic field requires more than just technical proficiency. Networking, internships, and a robust portfolio are crucial to gaining hands-on experience and showcasing adaptability.