Music Producer

A music producer works most often in recording studios, blending sound, acoustics, and lyrics into recordings. They don’t book bands, arrange transportation or promote sales, although compensation may be dependent on those aspects. Producers are often confused with sound engineers whose job is much more technical in nature. A production manager draws on other threads of expertise to weave sound magic.

Education

While there is no industry-wide education requirements or certification for music production, those with the most success have a solid foundation in a music-related field. They often pursue online degrees in music theory, music production, and sound engineering with a focus on production. Because a music producer is not involved in financing a production but in coordinating efforts to make the recording, the producer works with recording studio personnel, artists, and bands. They schedule recording sessions and often recommend what pieces to put on albums.They guide the process, much like a movie director.

‘Bedroom producers’ who create musical recordings may have limited local success, but mainstream acceptance often requires a solid reputation. Because a music producer works closely with both the creative and technical staff—the artists, musicians, and the sound engineers—credibility within the industry can be essential, and that credibility starts with documented knowledge and expertise.

Accredited online schools offer related degrees that enhance the probability of success within this highly competitive field. An undergraduate degree should be the minimum goal of anyone who desires to become a music producer. However, because this field is highly competitive, and success is rarely based on luck, pursuing an online education beyond the four-year degree can improve your chances and elevate your credentials above those of other candidates.

Unlike sound engineers and technical staff, most music producers get paid commission only. Compensation is negotiated prior to investing time and effort and can comprise a percentage of record sales, souvenirs or ticket sales. Payment can also be a lump sum in lieu of a percentage basis.

Some producers make only about $20,000 per year or less. Others who are more established and have an excellent reputation in the industry and who produce top-selling recordings can make over $1 million.

Know your contract terms completely and comprehensively before you agree to terms even verbally. In many states, a verbal contract is just as legally binding as a written one.

Employment Opportunities

The majority of music producers are self-employed, although a small but growing trend shows that music producers also own their own studios and contract sound engineers and other staff.

A solid working knowledge of the sound boards and the recording and mixing equipment commonly used in the industry may enhance opportunities as well as facilitate good working relationship with the technical experts. However, producing a recording does involve more than technical proficiency.

Major recording studios may hire in-house producers who have the opportunity to develop close relationships with studio bands, engineers and executive producers who are responsible for obtaining financing for each production.

Although the projections for this occupation still reflect a highly competitive atmosphere through 2018, the demand for highly skilled producers are noted within a growth range of 9 percent—roughly the national average rate in 2011.

If you love music and have a burning desire to create quality sound recordings, you may be the music producer for the next classic hit.