The art industry is for creative types that may be interested in performing, writing, producing, creating, or designing. It is a very broad industry with many career possibilities.
FOCUS AREAS
Dance
If you are interested in a career in dance, there are four major positions you would likely be employed. The first is as a performer/dancer. Most dancers either work for a performance art company, are self-employed, or work in the amusement, gambling, and recreation industries. Another common job title in the dance industry is choreographer. Through this role one would create dance performances for theater companies, dance companies, and possibly even music videos. The largest employer of choreographers are dance schools. The third and most common choice is to become a dance teacher for a dance school, vocational school, community center, or for private clients. The fourth and final area would be in administration where you would work behind the scenes at shows. Some may also consider a career in fitness where they can combine their love of dance with health and wellness.
Music
Musicians and singers perform in settings such as concert halls, churches, and clubs. The large majority of musicians/singers are self-employed with others being employed by orchestras, choirs, theaters, or musical bands. Many musicians also teach music in schools, at colleges/universities, and one-on-one at a music store or privately at home. Sample position titles include composer, orchestra conductor, musician, music coach, music teacher, vocalist/singer, music artists, and music director.
Photography
As a photographer, you can take photos of various subjects and objects in a large variety of settings. The most common careers in photography are in travel photography, wedding photography, portrait photography, landscape photography, wildlife photography, film photography, sport photography, fashion photography, street photography, architectural photography, food photography, and product photography. Most photographers are self-employed.
Theater
If you are interested in a career in theater, there are several areas from which you can choose. You may be interested in a performing role such as a choreographer, performer, dancer, or actor. If you aren’t interested in performing, you may be interested in a career in production. Production positions include such roles as sound technicians, producers, directors, stagehands, and casting directors. For those who prefer working behind the scenes, you can do so by becoming a costume designer, a hair/makeup artist, or part of the stage crew. Those who excel in writing may be interested in becoming a playwright, a screenwriter, or a scriptwriter. Lastly, some may decide to share their passion for the performing arts through teaching.
SAMPLE EMPLOYERS THAT WORK WITH BSU
- Cape Rep Theatre
- Giro Studio
- Ivana George Studios
- Mass Arts Centero
- Rose Conservatory
- Step Up 2 Dance
- The Dance Factory
RESOURCES
American Dance Therapy Association
National Association of Schools of Dance
National Dance Education Organization
Stage Directors and Choreographers Society
American Federation of Musicians
American Guild of Musical Artists
American Music Therapy Association
Music and Entertainment Industry Educators Association
Music Teachers National Association
National Association for Music EducationÂ
Careers in Music & Professional Associations
Professional Photographers of America
Photographic Society of America
American Association of Community Theatre
American Federation of Television and Radio Artists
American Society of Cinematographers
Association for Theater in Higher Education
Educational Theatre Association
International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees
