The job market for conductors in the United States

There are currently an estimated 47,300 conductors in the United States. The conductor job market is expected to shrink by 0.3% between 2024 and 2034.

How employable are conductors?

CareerExplorer rates conductors with a D employability rating, meaning this career should provide weak employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will lose -100 conductors.

Are conductors in demand?

Aspiring conductors may look to Los Angeles Philharmonic conductor Gustavo Dudamel for their inspiration. They should not, however, look upon his career path as common or traditional. Dudamel skipped college because he became an international sensation at a young age. He is most certainly the exception to the rule, which generally requires that professional conductors have at least a master’s degree, if not a doctorate in conducting. Most conductors will further increase their employability if they specialize in one of three standard programs: wind ensemble conducting, orchestral conducting, or choral conducting. While positions with major and renowned symphony and philharmonic orchestras are at the pinnacle of the conductor world, there are other roads to success in the field. Local orchestras, military and marching bands, college choirs, and chamber music ensembles each present opportunities for conductors to hone their skills and advance their careers. Competition in all of these arenas, as in every musical field, is expected to be at a higher level than overall demand.

What’s the supply of conductors?

The conductor industry is concentrated in California, New York, Pennsylvania

Conductor job market by state