Art/Drama/Music Professor

What is an Art/Drama/Music Professor?

An Art/Drama/Music Professor is an academic professional who educates students in the theory and practice of the arts, drama, or music. They engage in teaching, mentoring, research, and often contribute to the artistic community through their own creative work.

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How much does an Art/Drama/Music Professor earn

Income data is from Canada's latest census. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Art/Drama/Music Professor.

$87K

CAD per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $23K above the national average.

What does an Art/Drama/Music Professor do?

Work environment

These professors typically work in universities, colleges, and conservatories. They may have a mix of classroom teaching, studio time, rehearsals, office hours, and research activities. The environment is usually intellectually stimulating, with opportunities to collaborate with other educators and participate in performances or exhibitions.

Quick task list

  • Develops and teaches courses in art, drama, or music.
  • Advises and mentors students.
  • Conducts research and contributes to academic publications in their field.
  • Organizes and directs plays, concerts, and art exhibits.
  • Engages in creative work and professional development.

Areas of specialization

  • Visual Arts: Focuses on teaching techniques and history of visual arts, including painting, sculpture, and photography.
  • Performing Arts: Specializes in drama and theater arts, teaching acting, directing, and stagecraft.
  • Music Education: Involves teaching music theory, history, composition, and performance.
  • Art History: Focuses on the study and teaching of historical and contemporary art movements.
  • Theater Production and Design: Specializes in the technical aspects of theater production, such as set design, lighting, and sound.

Description

Art/Drama/Music Professors play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of artists, actors, and musicians. They are not only educators but also practitioners in their fields, often balancing teaching responsibilities with their own artistic pursuits. These professionals must stay abreast of current trends and developments in their area of expertise to provide a relevant and robust education.

In addition to teaching, these professors are heavily involved in the academic side of the arts, which includes research and publication. They often contribute to the academic body of work in their field through articles, books, and presentations. Their work also extends beyond the classroom, as they are frequently involved in organizing and directing various artistic performances and exhibitions, providing students with practical, hands-on experiences.

The role of an Art/Drama/Music Professor is multifaceted, requiring a blend of creative talent, academic rigor, and educational skills. They shape the artistic landscape of the future by inspiring and training the next generation of artists and performers. This profession demands a high level of dedication and passion for the arts, as well as the ability to inspire and engage students in the creative process.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Art/Drama/Music Professor if you are...

Pros:

  • Engaging and varied work, combining teaching, research, and creative expression.
  • Opportunities to shape the future of the arts and culture.
  • Academic tenure can offer job security and a stable income.

Cons:

  • The path to becoming a professor is highly competitive and often requires extensive education.
  • Balancing teaching, administrative duties, and personal creative work can be challenging.
  • The pressure to publish and contribute to academic research.

How to become an Art/Drama/Music Professor

Typical education

This profession generally requires a minimum of a master's degree in the relevant artistic field, but many positions, especially in universities, require a Doctorate. This equates to approximately 6-10 years of post-secondary education.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Art, Drama, Music classes to develop foundational skills.
  • English and Literature for critical thinking and communication skills.
  • History to understand the context of artistic movements.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Participating in school plays, bands, or art clubs.
  • Volunteering at local theaters, galleries, or community art programs.
  • Attending workshops and summer camps in your field of interest.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue a bachelor's degree in fine arts, music, drama, or a related field.
  • Consider master's and doctoral programs for advanced teaching positions.
  • Gain experience through internships, apprenticeships, or part-time work in artistic settings.

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