Music Video Directors and Producers

High School

The career paths of music video directors and producers are rather nontraditional. There is no standard training or normal progression up an industry ladder leading to the jobs of director or producer. At the very least, a high school diploma, while not technically required, will still probably be indispensable to you in terms of the background and education it signifies. (A high school diploma will be necessary if you decide to attend film school.) As is true of all artists, especially those in a medium as widely disseminated as music videos, you will need to have rich and varied experience in order to create works that are intelligently crafted and speak to people of many different backgrounds. In high school, courses in music, English (especially writing), art, theater, and history will give you a good foundation. If your high school offers film history or film production classes, be sure to take those courses. Visit the Web site of the American Film Institute (https://www.afi.com) for a list of high schools that offer film courses and other resources for students and teachers. Don't forget to take computer classes, since computer technology plays a major role in this industry. Finally, be active in school and community drama productions, whether as a performer, set designer, or cue-card holder.