51121 – Conductors, composers and arrangers
TEER 1Occupations usually requiring a university degree
Lead statement
Conductors select and interpret musical works and lead bands, orchestras and choirs during rehearsals and performances.
Main duties
- Select and interpret musical works and lead bands, orchestras and choirs during rehearsals and performances.
- Create musical compositions such as television and film scores, theme music, songs, symphonies and music for interactive products such as video games.
- Adapt and modify musical compositions to convey desired themes and to suit particular instrumental and vocal performances.
Employment requirements
- A university degree in music or completion of a program at a music academy, conservatory or school of music is usually required.
- A period of specialized study related to conducting, composing or arranging is usually required.
- Experience as a musician is required.
- Musical and creative talent and ability, as demonstrated by a portfolio of work, are important hiring criteria.
Example job titles
band conductor · band director · bandmaster · conductor · orchestral conductor · maestro · music director · musical director · composer · lyricist · songwriter · arranger · music arranger · orchestrator
Wages (per year)
| Province / territory | Low | Median | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $32,867 | $36,000 | $101,000 |
| Quebec | $33,109 | $33,109 | $89,000 |
| Ontario | $37,561 | $39,600 | $117,000 |
| Alberta | — | $32,867 | — |
| British Columbia | — | $44,800 | — |
Source: Job Bank wages, 2025 release (ESDC). Low and high are the 10th and 90th percentiles.
Occupation details: ESDC OaSIS 2025, based on NOC 2021.