Most Christian college students enjoy contemporary music, but wonder about jobs available with a contemporary Christian music degree. They worry the jobs available with a contemporary Christian music degree will not pay a living wage or be otherwise fulfilling. In reality, contemporary Christian music degrees can lead to several fulfilling occupations.
Worship Leader
One of the most common careers associated with Christian music degrees is worship leading. This can involve leading a praise band or traditional choir and usually encompasses any special music, drama, or other performances your church offers. Worship leaders often serve small groups such as student-led organizations on high school and college campuses. This type of service leads to many positive outcomes for the organizations and the leaders themselves. For example, it is often the worship leader who helps increase confidence for students who feel insignificant in God’s kingdom, according to Student Soul.
Music Teacher or Tutor
Many students with contemporary Christian music degrees find fulfillment serving as music teachers or tutors. Some of the jobs available with a contemporary Christian music degree are for traditional music teachers, usually in private Christian schools or as part of a homeschool curriculum. For example, a music teacher working with a homeschooled group might offer lessons in music appreciation as well as basic vocal and instrumental music a few times a week in a home or studio. Other jobs available with a contemporary Christian music degree are for private instructors. These are generally voice instructors or those dedicated to one or two instruments. Many of these instructors work with gifted children and teens. Vocal coaches often find their jobs benefit them as much as the students, according to Skill Studio.
Songwriter
Those considering a music degree might be surprised to learn jobs available with a contemporary Christian music degree include songwriting. This career is ideal for people who love writing and want to unite it with their interest in music. Many colleges offer classes on songwriting as part of either music or creative writing programs. The professors in these programs can offer mentorships and advice on how to break into the songwriting industry. For example, most will advise making your social media presence known and basing your songwriting choices on the groups and sounds you like.
Missions
Most people don’t associate mission work with the jobs available with a contemporary Christian music degree. Yet if you are a Christian musician who loves to travel and serve, you may find this career is right for you. Plenty of church mission teams take musicians or worship bands with them to get new churches excited about their work and to keep up missionary morale. Church-planting often involves music, as churches may want guidance on choosing worship leaders. Music ministry often reaches potential converts on a level sermons do not; this is particularly true for children.
Conclusion
Contemporary Christian music degrees aren’t the most common ones available, but they do open you to a plethora of unique opportunities. If you are considering this path, be encouraged. There are several fulfilling jobs available with a contemporary Christian music degree.
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