Objective: Students will be introduced to the idea that music can be a rewarding career by exploring different jobs in the music industry and learning how those jobs help people earn a living.

Teaching Context: Middle school is the perfect time to help students see music as more than just a class—it’s a skill that can lead to exciting careers. This activity uses the article “Why Music Majors Might Out-Earn Doctors (No, Really.)” to spark curiosity about real-world music jobs, from performers and teachers to composers and sound engineers. Students will begin to understand that music is not only creative and fun—but also practical and valuable.

Assignment: Music Jobs – More Than Just Rock Stars 🎸

Instructions:

Start by reading the article “Why Music Majors Might Out-Earn Doctors (No, Really.)” found on Accoladi.com. With a partner or on your own, choose three music careers from the list below. Use the internet—or ask a teacher or parent—to help you find out:

• What does this person do every day?
• Where do they work?
• Do people pay for this kind of job?
• Why is their job important?

🎵 Choose from:

• Middle School Band Director
• Movie Music Composer
• Church Choir Leader
• Country Singer
• Rock Band Drummer
• Broadway Music Director
• Private Music Teacher
• Music Studio Engineer
• Video Game Composer
• High School Choir Teacher
• Town’s Symphony Conductor

What to Turn In:

Create one of the following:

• A short poster
• A PowerPoint slide
• Or a one-page report

Your work should include:

• Fun facts about each of your three jobs
• At least one picture for each job

Be ready to share something interesting with the class!

Objective: Students will explore the wide range of viable music careers and analyze real-world salary data within their state to develop an informed understanding of music’s economic value and professional potential.

🎶 Assignment: The Money Behind the Music

Teaching Context: This lesson is designed to challenge outdated narratives surrounding music careers. Using the article “Why Music Majors Might Out-Earn Doctors (No, Really.)” as a springboard, students will examine local and national income data for music-related professions. By connecting classroom instruction to real-world statistics, students will leave the lesson empowered with practical insight into the music industry’s scope and sustainability.

🧠 Instructions:

Use reliable sources (such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, ZipRecruiter, Glassdoor, or state-specific employment websites) to research and document the average annual salary in your state for each of the following music careers:

1. High School Band Director
2. Music Studio Engineer
3. Church Praise and Worship Director / Minister of Music
4. City Symphony Conductor
5. Country Music Recording Artist
6. Film Composer
7. Drummer for a Touring Rock Band
8. Musical Theater Music Director
9. Middle School Choir Director
10. Private Piano Teacher (after-school or weekend studio)

✍️ Follow-Up Questions:

1. Which career surprised you the most in terms of income? Why?
2. Which role do you feel aligns most with your interests and strengths?
3. How do the salaries compare to other high-paying professions (doctors, lawyers, engineers)?
4. What are some ways musicians earn multiple streams of income from one job or performance?
5. Based on your findings, do you believe a career in music is financially sustainable?

📄 What to Turn In:

• A one-page salary chart with your findings
• A 150–200 word reflection based on your answers to the follow-up questions

Before you read my brilliant words, check out the article: Why Music Majors Might Out-Earn Doctors (No, Really.) at Accoladi.com

Dear ____________________ Parents,

Hello to all my fabulous band, choir, and orchestra parents!

You’ve probably heard it—or maybe even said it:

"Honey, music is great and all… but you should really have a backup plan."

I get it. You love your child and want them to be safe, secure, and successful. You picture dental insurance, not drum solos.

But what if I told you… music is the plan?

There’s an article over at Accoladi.com titled “Why Music Majors Might Out-Earn Doctors (No, Really.)” and trust me—it’s not satire. It’s stats. And it’s eye-opening.

Here’s a quick preview:

• The music industry pulled in over $45 billion in 2023.
• Some music producers made more than neurosurgeons—without a single biology lab or malpractice bill.
• Even church music directors and after-school piano teachers are part of a $16 billion music education economy. That’s right: the very people helping your child sing scales and hold their violin bow correctly are part of a thriving professional world.

Now, I’m not saying every kid with a clarinet is going to buy a yacht by 30. But I am saying that music is more than a hobby—it’s a serious career path. And middle school? That’s where the journey begins.

They’re learning rhythm, discipline, teamwork, creativity, and resilience. And one day, that trombone might turn into a teaching job, a film score, a Broadway pit gig, or even a hit song royalty check.

So instead of asking, “What if music doesn’t work out?”

Maybe start asking, “What if it does?”

Let’s champion the idea that your child’s passion might also be their profession. Because honestly? A career in music doesn’t just sound good—it pays well, too.

With joy knowing your child is filled with possibilities, I am . . .

Respectfully,

___________________________________________________ [Director’s Name and Position]

_________________________________________________________ [School Name]

Dear Parents, Let’s Talk About Music… and Money

Read the full article: Why Music Majors Might Out-Earn Doctors (No, Really.) at Accoladi.com

Dear _________________Parents,

I know what you're thinking.

“My child wants to major in music. Should I be worried? Should I Google scholarships? Should I buy them a van and a tip jar now just to get ahead of things?”

Take a deep breath—and maybe put that van idea on hold.

You must read an article on Accoladi.com titled “Why Music Majors Might Out-Earn Doctors (No, Really.)” and before you roll your eyes at the title, trust me—it’s worth the read.

Because guess what? The phrase “starving artist” is about as outdated as dial-up internet. In fact, in 2023, the music industry generated over $45 billion in the U.S. alone. That’s billion with a B—and no, it’s not all going to Taylor Swift (although… she’s doing just fine).

The article dives into real facts and career comparisons:

• Music producers in gaming made more than neurosurgeons (and they didn’t need malpractice insurance or twelve years of school to do it).
• Church music directors in Illinois earn about as much as nurses.
• Your child’s private teacher? They're part of a $16 billion music education economy.

Still think music isn’t practical?

Let me put it this way:
Doctors heal the body. Musicians heal the soul. Both get paid.

This isn’t about convincing your child to give up the dream and “get real.” This is about realizing that music is real. It’s a real profession. With real income. And—if your student plays their cards right—it can come with real job satisfaction, flexibility, and long-term earning potential (ever heard of royalties? They’re like musical retirement plans that keep on giving).

So next time your child practices late, dreams big, or says they want to pursue music after high school, don’t panic.

Just re-read the article, Why Music Majors Might Out-Earn Doctors (No, Really.) found on Accoladi.com. Share it. Let it challenge the old narrative.

And if nothing else, remember: the _______________________ (band, orchestra, choir) room may be loud… but it’s where futures are being built. And honestly? That’s music to all of our ears.

With gratitude (and possibly earplugs),

Sincerely,

____________________________________________________ [Director’s Name and Position]

_________________________________________________________ [School Name]