Page 203 - JobsPlus - Occupational Handbook

music they specialise in. Areas of specialisation include pop, rock, jazz, musical theatre, classical or opera.
Most Musicians, Singers and Composers usually work part-time or as freelancers. It is common for Musicians, Singers and Composers to be full-time music Teachers, Sound Engineers or work in TV or radio.
The National Orchestra of Malta is the only entity in Malta that employs full-time Musicians. Few bands manage to earn a full-time income through recording and live gigs.
Working hours are irregular and settings vary considerably depending on the genre of music and performance. Pop, rock and jazz Musicians usually perform in outdoor stages, bars or recording studios, whereas Musicians involved in musical theatre, classical music and opera are likely to perform in indoor theatres or concert halls.
Working hours do not only include performing/ recording time, but also practice and rehearsal time, research time and time to attend musical performances. Musicians are expected to have their own instruments which need to be maintained to performing condition.
Whilst writing musical pieces, Composers usually work alone from a private office/studio. Composers use instruments or computer software to write music. They may also work with Lyricists to complete their compositions. Travel may be required depending on the musical engagement.
Occupation data
Entry level education / special licences / warrants
When one is passionate about music, typically they would have formal musical training from a young age prior to entering tertiary level education. During this period, a high level of musical skill would be attained and one would need to make a decision of whether to pursue a full-time or a part-time career in music.
For a professional career in this industry, one would be required to train in a Music College/ Conservatoire abroad. Local Music Teachers tend to guide students on how to prepare for auditions and seek local funding, usually through the Malta Arts Fund.
For those who are keen to pursue a part-time career in music/composition in Malta or would prefer to leave Malta at a later stage, training programmes include:
• Diploma in Performing Arts (MCAST) (MQF Level 3)
• Advanced Diploma in Performing Arts (MCAST) (MQF Level 4)
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Music Studies (University of Malta) (MQF Level 6)
• Bachelor of Music (Honours) (University of Malta) (MQF Level 6)
• Master of Arts in Performing Arts (University of Malta) (MQF Level 7)
• Master of Music in Composition (University of Malta) (MQF Level 7)
• Master of Music in Performance (University of Malta) (MQF Level 7)
• Master of Music in Musicology (University of Malta) (MQF Level 7)
• Master of Music in Ethnomusicology (University of Malta) (MQF Level 7)
For further details on specific entry requirements, it is advisable to consult the respective educational institution’s website.
Number of employees (2017)
100
Share of foreigners (2017)
48%
Job Outlook (2018 - 2022)
+10%
Median Pay (per annum)
€18,100
Occupational Handbook 2018
203