New Orleans Music Jobs Overview
When you think of a career in the music industry, you might start with the musicians and performers who rock out on stage. However, when you pull back the curtains, you'll discover creative professionals with a range of music jobs working behind the scenes. Whether you dream of becoming a composer, singer, songwriter, record producer, or sound engineer, there are plenty of job prospects to suit your talents and vocational goals.
While singers and musicians have the most visible jobs in the industry, you might prefer to work in areas such as production, design, education, marketing, or public relations. If you're not sure what field you're interested in, here are some music careers to consider:
- Music producer – oversees all aspects of the creative process and makes sure the piece meets the vision of the artist and the record label.
- Audio engineer - organizes recording studio sessions, captures the sound, and edits using industry-standard software and equipment.
- Music publicist – works closely with marketers, media outlets, and venues to manage a musician's public image and raise earning potential.
- Tour manager – responsible for transportation, scheduling, accommodation, and finances of a musician’s tour.
- Music teacher – works with clients to teach theory and/or a specific instrument.
You can expand your search for entertainment jobs by checking out these similar positions:
About Working in New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is known as "The Big Easy." But it's not a simple task to figure out where this nickname came from. Some say it came from a gossip columnist who coined the term to compare the city's laidback vibe to New York's Big Apple bustle. Another story links the name to the city's love of music that makes it easy for musicians to get New Orleans jobs in the city's numerous performance venues. Yet another theory says it's because Prohibition never quite took hold in New Orleans, and it was easy to get alcohol when you were out on the town. Today, the relaxed lifestyle, music, and nightlife are a bonus when you're searching for jobs in New Orleans.
Pirates and ghosts are associated with the Big Easy. In 1813, Louisiana Governor William Claiborne offered easy money to anyone who could capture notorious pirate Jean Lafitte. Lafitte thought of an easy way out and offered a $1,500 reward for the capture of Governor Claiborne. According to legend, ghosts do not rest easy in New Orleans. It's considered the most haunted city in the U.S., with endless stories about spirit sightings in graveyards, restaurants, and old mansions.
Despite the spooky legends, it's easy as pie to fall in love with New Orleans. If you're thinking of relocating to this easygoing city, be sure to look at other colorful cities nearby, including Lafayette, Baton Rouge, and Kenner.
Update Your New Orleans Music Resume
As a creative professional, you should know that resume presentation takes center stage and will help you stand out in a crowd of candidates. While design is key, remember that your resume must be easy to read with well-organized content showcasing your skills and education. Need some more inspiration? Check out our library of resume samples to get you started.
If you really want to put your resume in the limelight, don't forget to attach a compelling cover letter when you apply. Add in that extra sparkle by using attention-grabbing tactics such as a catchy slogan, testimonials, and a clear mission statement. For more help, refer to our library of cover letter tips and advice articles.
How Much Do Music Jobs Pay in New Orleans, Louisiana?
Got money on your mind? You should! Make sure you’re getting paid what you’re worth. Our Salary Tools can help you understand what you can expect to make in music jobs in New Orleans, Louisiana, as well as the skills that can boost your value and what the next steps in your career might be. Right now, the median music director pay in New Orleans is $47,929 per year, which is 10% lower than the national average.
Find Your Next New Orleans Music Job. Monster Can Help Get You Started
Are you prepared for a career in music? If so, set up your profile on Monster for free and begin clicking on those music jobs. When you sign up with us, you’ll receive custom job alerts and expert advice on how to negotiate your salary in New Orleans, how to nail your job interview, and more.