We surveyed 885 composers to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical composer. Here are the results.

How much intelligence is required as a composer?

Low

High

Working as a composer typically doesn’t require the use of high levels of intelligence in daily tasks.

Can I learn to become a composer?

Intrinsic Talent

Acquired Talent

A career as a composer typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.

Is it easy to get a job as a composer?

Easy

Hard

It’s typically quite difficult to find a job as a composer. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for composers.

Info

Do composers work full-time or part-time?

20% of composers work in full-time roles while 80% work part-time.

Do composers have control over the direction of their work?

Low

High

Composers have high flexibility in the direction of their work, allowing them a lot of freedom in how they accomplish their goals.

Is being a composer physically demanding?

Low

High

Being a composer may occasionally require demanding physical activity, which may make it not a suitable career choice for everyone.

Are composers exposed to a wide variety of work?

Low

High

Composers tend to have a monotonous work routine, with little variety in their day-to-day tasks.

Does being a composer require attention to detail?

Low

High

Attention to detail isn't necessarily required to be successful as a composer.

Does being a good composer require compassion and empathy?

Low

High

Being compassionate and empathetic is considered helpful to those looking to pursue careers as composers.