The Performance major in the Voice concentration provides students with coursework in music theory, literature, and history, as well as intensive practice in operatic and ensemble performance, diction training, and preparation for a capstone recital. In addition to pursuing singing as a live performance or recording artist, graduates may find work in education, music direction, arts promotion, or talent management.
Performance, like many majors, teaches content and skills that can be applied to a wide variety of career fields. This major does not restrict you to a specific field. The career fields most closely related to this major are competitive. Many individuals who graduate with bachelor’s degrees in this major establish paying careers in other fields.
Following are career fields that may most closely relate to this major.
Potential Career Areas:
- Vocal performance
- Music direction
- Classroom teaching
- Music lessons
- Arts promotion
- Program coordination
- Public relations
Sample Employers:
- Schools
- Self-employment
- Arts councils
- Summer music programs
- Nonprofit arts organizations
- Performing arts centers
- Theatre companies
- Opera companies
- Casinos
- Cruise ships
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Singer
|
$15,891 - $44,179
|
|
Music Director
|
$21,700 - $46,000
|
|
High School Music Teacher
|
$35,000 - $53,200
|
|
Public Relations Specialist, Performing Arts
|
$21,000 - $60,000
|
|
Arranger
|
$16,750 - $41,270
|
|
Audience Development Director
|
$18,000 - $50,000
|
|
Talent Director
|
$32,100 - $68,400
|
|
Private Voice Teacher
|
$23,000 - $60,000
|
|
Music Critic
|
$40,500 - $57,500
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011); Economic Research Institute, Inc. (2012).