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Composer

211211 · Sedentary

Career data Verified

Music composers write and arrange original works of music for orchestras, musicians, musical groups and instrumental performances.

Most common salary $50k – $92k
Upper salary up to $124k
Training 0-5 years

Description

Writes new and rearranges existing musical compositions such as songs, operas, symphonies, musical scores and advertising jingles.

Typical work tasks

  • Creates melodic, harmonic and rhythmic structures to express ideas and emotions in musical form; translates ideas and concepts into standard musical signs and symbols for reproduction and performance; undertakes research and liaises with clients when composing musical backing for television commercials, popular recordings, and radio, television and film productions.

Typical work environment

  • Works indoors in music studios, music rooms or home studios.
  • Usually works in adequately heated and ventilated work spaces when indoors.

Typical physical and mental demands

  • Sedentary physical demand levels.
  • Frequently sits or stands depending upon musical instrument being used to compose with or at compute. May walk between a variety of instruments, recording devices and computer.
  • Stretching up and reaching across is unlikely to be required.
  • Bending is not a significant feature of the job.
  • Squatting, crouching and kneeling is not a significant component of the job.
  • Twisting of the body or neck is not a significant component of the job.
  • Lifting, carrying and holding is not a significant component of the job.
  • Repetitive movements with hands are likely to be constant when using instruments and computers.
  • Driving is not a significant feature of this job.
  • Use of hand-held tools and equipment will be frequent and may include musical instruments, a computer with specialised software, musical recording and playback equipment, paper for writing manuscripts and pens.
  • Mental skills necessary include creative, musical ability and knowledge, communication, planning and organisational skills, computing and performance/expressive skills.
Entry signal Reviewed

Requires a substantial formal qualification.

Entry barrier Formal qualification
Licence / registration No licence required
ANZSCO skill level 1
Next-day ready No

How this was determined (model-generated): Composer: tertiary qualification or 5+ years experience (Skill Level 1); no licence; substantial standing-start barrier.

Entry Requirements

  • A relevant tertiary qualification or at least five years applicable experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required.

Further Comments

  • There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.