Music Composer Courses
A Music Composer creates music for performances, events, productions, or recordings, collaborating with musicians and production teams.
AI Exposure
Medium
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
View all courses
How do I become a Music Composer
Get qualified to work as a Music Composer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
CUA30920
Study mode
Online, Traineeship
The CUA30920 Certificate III in Music (Creation and Composition) will teach you how to write songs, compose simple melodies, and arrange music. This nationally recognised qualification is a great first step toward a professional music career.
Your studies begin with an introduction to the many facets of the international music industry and you’ll spend time planning your career and the competencies you’ll need to succeed. The course covers: writing song lyrics, developing aural perception skills, develop...
Career opportunities
Study mode
Online, Traineeship
Find a provider
CUA40920
Duration
3 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
The CUA40920 Certificate IV in Music is for aspiring musicians and industry professionals who need a holistic understanding of the international music business as well as professional level musicianship skills. Your studies begin with an introduction to music business opportunities, copyright, and creative practice. You’ll then gain technical skills in any of four specialist areas: performance, creation and composition, sound production, music business and marketing. Enquire now for entry requirements, th...
Career opportunities
Duration
3 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
Find a provider
CUA50820
Duration
6 months - 4 years
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
The nationally recognised CUA50820 Diploma of Music primes you for success in the music industry. Whether you’re wanting to become a guitar teacher, sound engineer, music promoter, or international recording artist, this course will give your career a kickstart. Your studies begin with music industry essentials, teaching you how to manage the copyright of your music and keep yourself healthy and safe. You’ll then choose specialty units in career interest areas: Performance, Creation and Composition, Music...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 4 years
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
Find a provider
CUA50820
If you’re an aspiring songwriter or composer try the CUA50820 Diploma of Music (Creation and Composition). This nationally recognised qualification will raise your compositions to professional level and teach you how to protect your creative work. The course covers: developing music industry knowledge, articulating your ideas about music, techniques for arranging music, composing music using technology, composing for screen, preparing your work for publishing and performance, producing sound recordings, a...
Career opportunities
View all
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Music Composer.
Common questions
How much does a Music Composer earn?
In Australia, a full time Music Composer generally earns $1,680 per week ($87,360 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for a Music Composer?
Music Composers have experienced stable employment growth over the last five years. It is a profession that hires a small amount of people though and there are currently 310 people employed as a Music Composer in Australia. Music Composers may find work in all regions of Australia, particularly larger towns and cities.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Music Composer?
A Diploma of Music Industry is a great qualification if you’re thinking of becoming a Music Composer. This course will help you develop techniques for composing, arranging, recording, mixing and performing music. You could also consider an Advanced Diploma of Music Industry or a Certificate IV in Music Industry.
Choose a field of study
Looking for a career in the creative industries? Or just want to bring your innate creativity to the surface? Check out these amazing courses in music, theatre, photography, dance, Aboriginal culture, art, and fashion.
All courses
Musical theatre, acting for stage and screen, and contemporary performance skills are all covered by these recognised qualifications. Find out more!
Career opportunities
View all
Courses available in visual arts, graphic design, jewellery making, pottery, photography, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts. Suitable to both professional artists and hobbyists.
Career opportunities
View all
Choose training courses in a wide range of dance genres including ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap and musical theatre. Find out more!
Career opportunities
View all
All courses
More information
A Music Composer creates pieces of music to be performed by a musician or an instrumental group. You might be composing music for a special event, a particular production or a specific recording. Music Composers may specialise in a particular type of music or they might create pieces across all genres. You might be following direction about what type of music is required or you may be able to develop your own compositions.
Music Composers should be able to collaborate with musicians and production crews and need to be able to communicate plans for their musical pieces. You should have a strong understanding of the music genre you’re writing for and the musicians or singers who will be performing your compositions. Music Composers should be talented in their field and have an understanding of the recording or performing process.
Courses by location