Composers and Arrangers

Employment for music directors and composers is projected to increase by 3 percent from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). This is about as fast as the average for all careers. The DOL says that "there will likely be a need for composers to write original music and arrange known works for performances. Composers will be needed as well to write film scores and music for television and commercials."

Although there are no reliable statistics on the number of people who make their living solely from composing and/or arranging, the general consensus is that very few people can sustain themselves through composing and arranging alone. The field is highly competitive and crowded with highly talented people trying to have their music published and played. There are only a limited number of commissions, grants, and awards available at any time, and the availability of these is often subjected to changes in the economy. On the other hand, many films continue to be made each year, particularly as cable television companies, Amazon, and Netflix produce more original programs.