Exploring Careers in Music: Beyond the Stage

Last month, in our conversation with Gabriel Evangelista, we learned about a career path many might not immediately think of music ministry. This unique calling uses music to enhance worship, express faith, and build community. Gabriel’s story inspired us to ask: What other professions await our music students, especially our string players?

Read more about Gabriel’s musical journey here.

Traditional Paths

Many young musicians dream of careers as performers—whether in a symphony orchestra, chamber ensemble, theater pit orchestra, or touring with world-renowned opera or ballet companies. Some envision themselves stepping into the spotlight as a soloist like Yo-Yo Ma, while others aspire to conduct major ensembles. Still others combine performance with adventure, taking their talents aboard cruise ships or working as DJs, bringing music to audiences worldwide.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Some students find their calling as teachers, inspired by a mentor who first sparked their love of music. Opportunities span all levels of education:

• Early education teachers introduce music to young, curious minds.

• Middle school and high school educators lead orchestra programs and school ensembles.

• College professors focus on advanced performance, pedagogy, and research.

• Private studio teachers often build long-term relationships, guiding students from their very first notes to professional auditions.

  
  

Blending Music with Other Talents

Not every music student chooses to pursue performance as a full-time career. Many who excel in music also thrive in fields such as STEM or business. For these students, stepping into another profession doesn’t mean leaving music behind. Instead, they often continue performing as a meaningful “side gig”—playing at weddings, church services, or community theaters, and sharing their artistry with their communities while following other career paths.

Behind the Scenes: Music Business & Technical Careers

The entrepreneurial spirit has helped many musicians create meaningful careers that incorporate all aspects of business. The music industry relies on many professionals who work beyond the stage. 

• Music Business is a broad term that encompasses publicists, managers, agents, promoters, and administrators who ensure that artists and organizations succeed. (At MCM, our music administrator handles scheduling, payroll, billing, and much more.)

• Production & Technical Fields include careers in audio engineering, music production, and sound design.

• Specialized String Professions Musicians who also enjoy working with their hands may look for careers as luthiers (string instrument makers and repair specialists) and bow makers keep our instruments playable. Instrument repair is vital to both live and recorded music.

• Instrument sales representatives who are able to demonstrate instruments with expertise can work in sales to music students and music professionals, helping musicians find their perfect fit.

  
  

Healing Through Music

Music therapy is a growing field, helping both children and older adults improve physical, emotional, and mental health. Through structured musical interaction, therapists reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance communication skills. For string musicians, the expressive nature of their instruments makes them especially powerful in therapeutic settings.

Looking Ahead

Brian Hoffman has filled a variety of these roles. He currently performs in chamber ensembles, orchestra, and solo in a variety of settings, including weddings. He also worked for 10 years in downtown Chicago as an instrument consultant for the world-renowned strings firm, Carl Becker and Son, which was a transformative educational experience. He teaches and has become an entrepreneur as the owner of Midwest Conservatory of Music. Brian believes, “The next generation of music professionals will be more successful and adaptable if they open themselves up early on to more disciplines than just performance.”

For today’s string students and all musicians, the future holds an inspiring variety of opportunities. Whether on stage, in the classroom, behind the soundboard, or even in the workshop crafting instruments, there are countless ways to build a fulfilling career in music.