Summary of the Occupation
In recent times, with the advancement in technology and the affordability of music production equipment, there has been an increase in the number of small, independent music studios, run by producers, for example, Leston Paul, Junior ‘Ibo’ Joseph and Pelham Goddard. Furthermore, there are no longer any large music production companies to compete with these independent music producers.
Although work may be seasonal, with the bulk of arranging and production, being around the Carnival season (specific to Trinidad and Tobago), the music industry is growing exponentially with the number of entertainers, singers, songwriters, corporate entities (advertisers, corporate branding) music groups (bands) increasing annually.
There is a view that Trinidad and Tobago does not have a defined music industry, rather, what is considered the “industry”, are merely pockets of artistes, producers and persons marketing and promoting music. Therefore, the potential exists for the industry to be enhanced and for it to become profitable. The future is promising as many young persons are entering the industry. However, there is a need for the industry to be more organized with more effective marketing and management of the industry.
The technology is present, but not the management skills, for instance, management of intellectual property. Piracy is also another issue that plagues the industry since at times this phenomenon causes persons to reduce quality as it is felt that it is not profitable to invest time energy and talent on a production, knowing that it will most likely end up in the hands of a ‘music pirate’.
In the past, there was the popular notion that all persons go abroad, for example, to St. Lucia, to record their music, however, there are several local contractors who produce music of both a high standard and quality.
Occupations in the Music Production industry include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Sound Engineer (sets up microphone etc.)
• Music Producer
• Editor (edits vocals and accompanying music to produce a completed end product)
• Arranger ensures that every aspect of the music piece is well harmonized, for the instruments to the tempo)
In this occupational area we will examine the job title Music Producer.
MUSIC PRODUCER
Music producers oversee all aspects of a recording session, from planning the sessions to the finished product. The Music Producer is responsible for providing instruments, scheduling studio recording time and handling funding, costs and negotiations on behalf of the client. The Music Producer also works with and coaches musicians. The end result of this process is the creation and publication of a quality musical work. A major aspect of the job as a music producer is to create quality sounds that match the plans of both the musicians and producer.
Additionally, as part of the daily routine, the Music Producer will assist audio engineers with the mixing and recording process. Engineers primarily treat with the technical aspects of the recording, such as broadcasting and converting sounds. Music producers also have an entrepreneurship role in making sure that the operation is successful and within budget.
Music producers are expected to work long hours in an enclosed environment. The Music producer must interact with several stakeholders – the client, suppliers and subordinates. Often the noise levels in the work environment are high, however, the job does not require the use of protective clothing or equipment.
Persons interested in the music production field should:
- Have a strong background in music theory and practice
- Have experience arranging music for and playing at least one musical instrument
- Have deep knowledge of recording techniques and a wide range of both digital and analog recording equipment
In addition, the music producer needs to exhibit relentless ambition and the ability to promote himself/herself and must be proficient at developing relationships and personal networks.
Entertainers, singers, songwriters, corporate entities (marketing firms) and music groups all need music producers, thus the opportunities for employment are plentiful. Developments in technology have also reduced the cost of acquiring music production equipment. It is now possible for individuals to start their own business if they are suitably experienced and qualified.
Growth in the industry is expected from music producers who work in nightclubs, concert tours and other venues. Job prospects for music producers are difficult to quantify as it is such a creative industry with very few fixed, salaried positions. There are indicators that are favorable to the prospects of music producers, such as the rise of digital music and the role the internet plays in exposing music lovers to new sounds they may not otherwise get the chance to hear.
Another factor which impacts the job outlook for music producers is competition. With the reduced cost of starting a music production business, many persons are entering the field thus reducing the potential for individual firms to make profits.
Music producers are also advocating for more assistance from the Government to establish support systems that will allow for more air play of local content in the local media and to assist with the marketing of the local music production industry in the international entertainment arena. Management skills are needed along with legislation that protects intellectual property. Given the Government’s economic diversification thrust, which includes the entertainment industry as a focal point, investments will be made to support this industry as a major foreign exchange earner.
Pay
On average salary ranges from $4,000.00 – $10,000.00 to complete a production/song. An inexperienced producer will earn approximately $1,000.00 to produce a track, earning an average monthly income of $4,000.00 – $5,000.00. A more experienced producer will on average $4,000.00 – $5,000.00 per track.
Similar occupations
| OCCUPATION | DUTIES | ENTRY LEVEL EDUCATION | MEDIAN PAY |
| Sound Engineer | Operates equipment to regulate volume and quality of sound output during music-band performance | Basic secondary education along with extensive on the job training | $3,500.00 per month |
Useful sources of information
www.ckln.org – Caribbean Knowledge and Learning Network
Pensado’ Place – a show that has interviews and provides information that can be helpful.