Finding a job in music

The music industry offers an eclectic range of job areas. You could work within performance, production, the technical and engineering side, promotion and marketing or management. Then there are music-related jobs outside of the industry within health, community work or teaching. Music is a sector where freelance work is prevalent within certain areas and many people will work in more than one role at any one time, for example combining private teaching with performance work.

Employers that recruit in these areas

• Schools, colleges, universities (teaching)
• Television and radio companies will employ technicians, engineers and performers
• Commercial and corporate production companies can offer ad hoc work for performers
• Music producers and studios for performance, production and technical work
• Theatres and art companies will employ musicians, music directors and music-related positions within the community
• Music venues and clubs will employ performers, DJs and producers

We recommend starting your search using our online jobs board, MyCareer. You can also find general online job boards and advice through our Graduate Jobs page. 

Sector Specific Job Boards

Recruitment agencies

Recruitment consultants work with individuals to help them find suitable work to match their skills. Agency Central is the UK's leading recruitment agency directory. An advanced search and filter system finds the agencies which match your needs

Start your own business

The majority of musicians and performers will work on a freelance basis and pick-up work through networking, word of mouth and ultimately their reputation. Our Student Startup team can offer further support with freelancing and starting your own business

Get Student Startup support

Other resources that can support you:

• Musicians' Union
• Freelance UK
• DIY Musician

Speculative applications

Speculative applications involve sending a CV and cover letter to an employer to ask if they have any vacancies, even if the company is not currently advertising for a role. They're a great way to access "hidden jobs" that go unadvertised.

Submitting a speculative application shows your interest in a specific company and your willingness to go above and beyond to develop your skills and understanding of the industry. 

Learn how to send a speculative application

Keep up-to-date with the industry

It's good to keep up-to-date on sector developments and track any vacancies coming up. Below are some great resources to help you research opportunities available. The knowledge gained through your research may help you to target your applications and will help when preparing for interviews.

• UK Music - UKMusic.org acts as a voice for all sectors within the industry and supports initiatives to benefit those within the music industry
• Music Week - Music industry news, data, analysis and opinion as well as a jobs board
• Arts Hub - Essential jobs, news and information for professionals working in the UK arts and cultural industries
• Careers in Music - Although an American site this provides in-depth advice and guidance on over 100 music-related careers with tips from industry professionals.
• Sound on Sound - Industry magazine for recording musicians, music producers and sound engineers.
• Recording Mag - News and advice for recording artists and sound engineers.
• Musicians Union -Advice and guidance for those working in the music industry, particularly useful for freelancers. Offers heavily discounted membership for students.
• Showcase Music - Online guide to the music production industry
• The Unsigned Guide - Subscription based guide to the music industry including 8,800 UK music business contacts spanning 50 areas of the industry
• DIY Musician - Discover everything you need to know about being a successful musician on your own terms. Covers topics such as music marketing, song writing, social networking, recording, copyright and building a YouTube presence.