Music directors and composers write, arrange, or direct music.

Music directors and composers use melody, harmony, tone, and tempo to create musical compositions. They may create or direct music for symphonies, jazz ensembles, singers, films, television shows, or concerts. They may also create music for advertising on radio and television.

Music directors and composers may specialize in a music type such as:

• Classical
• Jazz
• Popular

Music Directors

Music directors use their hands and bodies to direct musicians. They signal to musicians to play louder, softer, faster, slower, or to change the pitch.

Music directors audition and select singers or musicians for vocal or instrumental groups. They select music that fits the group's talents and abilities. They sometimes adapt musical scores to fit a group's particular style.

Music directors for major orchestras or choirs may oversee a large staff. They assign and review the work of staff, such as arranging music or vocal coaching. Some music directors hire composers to write original scores for their group. Music directors direct their group at rehearsals and performances.

Music Composers

Composers create original scores of music. Some composers are hired to write a piece of music for a film or television show. They may also be hired to write a piece for a specific group of musicians to perform.

Composers discuss the piece with the people who commissioned it. They must know the purpose of the piece and any feelings it should convey. This helps composers choose the tempo, instruments, rhythm, and other elements. Some composers write music from their own inspiration.

Music composers may also take existing music and adapt it for various instruments, groups, and styles. They decide which notes are to be played by each instrument. They also transpose music from one voice to another to meet the needs of the performer.