Seeing “musician” on a résumé may not initially evoke thoughts of a stellar employee or exceptional leader. Instead, many imagine a rebellious rock star or someone struggling financially, wishing they had pursued a “real job.” However, musicians’ skillsets are far more transferable to professional workplaces than stereotypes suggest.
Many musicians work dual careers, balancing arts and non-arts roles for financial stability. A nationwide survey aimed to uncover just how well music education equips individuals for various workplaces. Preliminary interviews with dual-career musicians revealed that their musical background instilled unique and highly desirable workplace skills—validated by their non-musician colleagues.
Practice Makes Perfect
One of the most influential traits developed through music education is professionalism. In fact, 85% of survey participants cited professionalism as key to both self-expectations and work quality. This reflects the discipline musicians learn through rigorous rehearsal routines, where “early is on time, on time is late.”
Other commonly reported strengths were autonomy, resilience, perseverance, and creativity. Learning an instrument demands focused attention, discipline, and intrinsic motivation over time—traits highly valuable in today’s screen-dominated world, which often disrupts concentration and productivity.
Creativity also emerged as a standout trait, especially among jazz musicians and composers. Some studies even suggest that musicians have more neuronal matter, potentially enhancing brain activity and out-of-the-box thinking.
Teamwork and Leadership Skills
Ensemble work—whether in bands, orchestras, or chamber groups—translates directly to teamwork in the workplace. Survey respondents emphasized that these experiences taught them how to contribute to something larger than themselves.
Musical training fosters diversity appreciation, inclusivity, deep listening, respectful communication, and leadership skills. Several respondents noted that a passion for music also improved their mental health, resilience, and workplace morale. Their co-workers reported feeling energized and inspired by their musically trained colleagues.
Growth Mindset and Adaptability
Musicians’ healthy relationship with failure stood out in the survey. They embraced curiosity, learned from mistakes, and saw failure as an opportunity to improve—an attitude that’s invaluable in the workplace. This mindset also made it easier for musicians to acquire new skills. Many respondents had pursued further education or learned on the job to adapt to new careers.
Their live performance experience made them comfortable working under pressure, whether delivering presentations, managing deadlines, or leading projects. Musicians’ “the show must go on” mentality equipped them with resilience and adaptability in high-stress situations.
Co-workers validated these qualities, identifying musicians as having strong work ethics, high intelligence, initiative, and professionalism.
Musicians Across Industries
Survey participants were employed across various industries, including health, science, law, business, finance, technology, academia, transportation, government, and more. Many held leadership roles. The findings suggest hiring musicians may increase workplace productivity, innovation, and profitability.
Lessons for Educators and Policymakers
Music education nurtures skills relevant to many fields beyond the arts. However, the decline of school music programs and a greater emphasis on STEM over the arts threatens this development. Including musical skills in a National Skills Passport and ensuring widespread access to music education could be critical for future workforce success.
The next life-changing innovation may just come from a musician. Recruiters should take note.
SOURCE: The Conversation | April 14, 2024
Diana Tolmie
Senior Lecturer of Professional Practice, Griffith University
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