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Example Careers in Performing Arts & Entertainment

• Professional Dancer – Performs in theatre, television, music videos, or live events
• Choreographer – Designs and directs dance routines for performances
• Dance Captain – Leads and rehearses dancers in a production
• Stage Performer – Works in musicals, plays, or themed entertainment

Education & Teaching

• Dance Teacher – Teaches dance in schools, studios, or community settings
• University Lecturer – Educates students in higher education on dance theory and practice
• Workshop Facilitator – Runs dance sessions for youth groups or special interest groups. Health & Therapy
• Dance Movement Therapist – Uses dance to support emotional and psychological healing
• Physiotherapist (with dance specialisation) – Helps performers recover from injury
• Pilates/Yoga Instructor – Teaches body conditioning with an emphasis on movement quality

Media, Production & Management

• Dance Videographer – Captures and edits dance performances for media
• Arts Administrator – Organises events and manages dance programs in an arts organisation
• Talent Agent – Represents dancers and choreographers in the industry

For further information on Dance career pathways, click here.

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Learning Journey for Key Stage 3  

Learning Journey for Key Stage 4 

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Careers - Performing & Creative Arts

• Actor – Performs in plays, film, or TV
• Stage Director – Oversees a production’s vision
• Playwright – Writes scripts for performance
• Stage/Set/Costume Designer – Designs performance environments
• Drama Therapist – Uses drama in therapy to support emotional wellbeing

Careers - Technical & Production

•  Lighting Technician – Designs lighting effects
•  Sound Engineer – Operates sound equipment in theatre or media
•  Make-up Artist – Creates character looks for performances

Careers - Education & Community

• Drama Teacher – Teaches in schools or colleges
• Youth Theatre Worker – Runs drama activities for young people
• Workshop Facilitator – Delivers creative sessions in schools or communities

Careers - Media, Business & Public Sector

• TV/Radio Presenter – Hosts broadcasts and events
• Public Relations Officer – Creates and shares key messaging for organisations
• Events Manager – Plans and coordinates creative or professional events
• Corporate Trainer – Delivers communication and leadership training using drama-based techniques

Click here for further information on Careers in Drama. 

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Learning Journey - KS3 

Learning Journey KS4 

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Overview of Career Pathways

Studying music can lead to a wide range of exciting careers in performance, production, education, and the business side of the industry. Music is not only about being a famous performer – it involves many different roles that support, create, manage, and teach music in various settings, such as live events, film, television, gaming, and schools.

The UK has a thriving music industry that contributes significantly to the economy and offers many career opportunities for creative, technical, and organised individuals.

Skills Gained from Studying Music

Studying music helps develop a wide range of transferable skills that are highly valued in many careers:

• Creativity and self-expression
• Confidence and communication
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Discipline and perseverance
• Problem-solving
• Listening and critical thinking
• Organisation and time management
• Technical skills (such as using music software and equipment)

These skills are not only useful for music-related careers but are also valuable in many other professions.

Career Pathways

There are four main pathways into careers in music:

1. Performance and Creative Roles – Involving performing, composing, songwriting, and directing music.
2. Production and Technical Roles – Working behind the scenes in studios or live events using technology and sound equipment.
3. Education and Community Roles – Teaching music in schools, colleges, or in the community.
4. Business and Management Roles – Involving the promotion, organisation, and financial aspects of music and artists.

Example Careers in Music

Performer

• Musician, singer, session player, DJ - often self-employed or part of bands/orchestras
• Music Producer or Sound Engineer - works in studios or live venues - uses music technology to record, edit, and mix sound
• Composer or Songwriter - writes original music for artists, film, TV, adverts, or games
• Music Teacher - who teaches in schools, colleges, or private lessons - may also run music clubs, choirs, or ensembles.

Music Manager or Promoter

• Helps plan tours, book venues, and promote artists

Media and Game Music Specialist

• Creates soundtracks or audio effects for video games, film, or animation

Radio Presenter or Music Journalist

• Works in broadcasting or writing about music
• Works in broadcasting or writing about music

Next Steps

If you're interested in a career in music:

• Take part in music lessons, ensembles, or local music events
• Consider GCSE Music and further study (e.g. A-Level Music, BTEC, or college courses)
• Explore work experience or volunteering in music settings

Music is a subject that opens the door to creativity, confidence, and countless career opportunities – whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in the classroom.

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