Musicians write, arrange, orchestrate, perform and conduct musical compositions.

Musicians may perform the following tasks:

• study and rehearse musical scores prior to performances
• play music in recital, as an accompanist, or as a member of an orchestra, band or other musical group, from score or by memory
• make recordings for sale on compact disc or online
• make videos to represent the music
• provide musical backing for television commercials, popular recordings, radio, television or film productions
• improvise, transpose, compose, or arrange music
• play under the direction of a conductor.

Specialisations: A musician may perform a variety of tasks depending on their area of specialisation. Classical Musician A classical musician works to very high technical levels and develops high levels of ensemble skills. Classical musicians must develop the ability to adapt to the demands of international conductors and soloists. They develop a knowledge of classical, opera and ballet repertoire, and may undertake additional training at music schools overseas. Composer A composer creates musical compositions for films, plays, television, concerts and operas. Composers may specialise in one type of music or in compositions for particular instruments and they may write words to accompany the music. Conductor (Music) A conductor (music) conducts instrumental groups such as symphony orchestras and large bands. They can audition and select members of a group and choose the music to accommodate their talents and abilities, and to suit different types of performance events. Conductors become familiar with the complete musical score, conduct rehearsals, instruct players on their performances and try to make the best use of each instrumentalist's talents. They conduct performances in which they control factors such as balance, rhythm, dynamics and timing, to create an effect consistent with their own interpretation of the score. Ethnomusicologist An ethnomusicologist studies music in its cultural context and seeks to understand the relationship between musical cultures. They may work as composers, performers, lecturers or researchers. They usually work within an academic institution such as a university, exploring, studying, researching and writing scholarly articles on music and musicians. Fieldwork in various regions of the world may be required, where they record music from a particular area, an ethnic group or a particular performing group. Jazz Musician A jazz musician often recognised for their superior skills in improvisation. Their ensemble skills are similar to those required in chamber groups. Music Arranger A music arranger transcribes musical compositions or melodic lines to adapt and modify them for particular performance formats, such as orchestras, bands, choral groups or solo performance. People with these skills may proceed to a number of jobs, including music teacher, music director, conductor or record producer. Music Critic A music critic is employed by major print media publishers to report on the performing arts. Local areas usually have part-time critics who report regularly on local and visiting artists in the local press. Musicologist A musicologist interprets musical history and style. They generally work as lecturers. Performing Musician/Instrumentalist A performing musician/instrumentalist may play one or more instruments in recital performances. This may be in accompaniment only, or as a member of orchestras, bands or other musical groups including chamber ensembles. Musicians spend a number of hours each day in private practice to prepare music for rehearsals and performance. They may record and program backing tracks and/or electronic devices that may be used in performance. Musicians may need to listen to and analyse music in either written or recorded form to build their repertoire. They also need to maintain and prepare their instruments for peak performance. They may compose and write music and lyrics, or combine and/or arrange music across a number of musical styles including classical, pop, jazz, folk, country, show music and various forms of dance music.    Vocalist A vocalist may work solo or with an accompanist, or permanently or casually with bands, ensembles, orchestras or in concert opera. Vocalists develop a repertoire and many specialise in a particular style, or work on stage, radio and television. They may entertain as soloists, perform in a group and/or play an instrument. Vocalists need to train and develop their voice and capacity to sing, as well as develop presentation skills. They need to understand music and be able to work with bands and orchestras.

Musicians must be prepared to work irregular hours and spend long periods in practice and rehearsal. Some musicians work in areas unrelated to music to support themselves. Many professional musicians with experience in all styles combine music performance and music teaching careers in Australia.

Personal Requirements:

• musical skills
• stamina to perform at peak level
• self-confidence, motivation, dedication and determination
• good communication skills
• able to concentrate for long periods
• mastery of one or more styles of music such as classical, jazz or pop
• flair for entertainment.