UK Music Industry

The music industry offers exciting and diverse opportunities for those who love music. Whether you’re looking to work full-time or part-time, there are numerous paths to explore.

Industry Impact

Economic Contribution:

The UK music industry contributed £4 billion to the economy in 2021

Employment:

The industry supported 145,000 jobs in the same year

Beyond the Traditional Music Career

Contrary to popular belief, becoming a successful musician isn’t just about landing a record deal. Today’s music professionals create income through multiple channels and explore a wide range of career options.

Our Updated Careers Resources

We’re excited to share our latest resources to help aspiring music professionals:

As suggested in our Careers leaflet, you can use the links below for further information

Discover – Creative Careers
A great range of info about careers in Music, Arts, Media etc

UK Music
Careers Information Pack

Musicians Union 
Careers Advice

VoiceMag – magazine and platform for young creatives covering arts, culture, politics and technology

Apprenticeships
Earn while you learn! From music business skills to live events and promotion.
Find an apprenticeship
Find out more

Vocational training
Study at college/university/an independent organisation, and also get work experience. Examples include:
UK Music’s Music Academic Partnerships
Access Creative College, Bristol
dBS Music Bristol

Online business/marketing training for musicians
Online training is available from a range of organisations, from established colleges, to independent businesses. Examples include:
Berklee College of Music
Cyber PR
Smart Band Management

Music teaching, community music, youth music
Musicians Union – get advice and information about working as a musician
ISM – find out about careers and funding
Youth Music Network – read resources about working with young people
Sound Sense – find out about community music
British Association for Music Therapy – find out about music therapy

Copyright
Cracking Ideas – this holds a wealth of information on all aspects of Intellectual Property (IP)

Including BBC https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/groups/cerwn4l35mrt