What is the single biggest suggestion you would give to someone wanting to get into this career?

“Know what you’re getting into” in regards to time commitment, stress, and the job market. It’s extremely competitive because jobs rarely open up, plus there’s the tenure process. Once people get to where they want to be, even if it’s not perfect, “they stay there and make things work.” Also, be organized. You might have to be a TA for 300 students. You might have to put together a concert. “You have to ask a lot of people for help.” Find a Professor who can help you “because a Professor won’t reach out to you. I’m here to help. I’ll never not reply to your email.”

What’s the #1 mistake people make when trying to get into this career?

They don’t see “the overload of the job. They think you just teach music. Well, no…I don’t just teach music. It comes with a lot of responsibility.”

Ethnomusicologist

Expert Sources: Adriana Helbig

Date: November 8, 2014

Career Overview

Ethnomusicologists go into the field to learn about the musical practices of different groups, writing academic studies that frame musical traditions and movements through a sociocultural lens.

Alternate Titles

Comparative Musicologist, Musicologist, Folklorist

Avg. Salary

$72,630¹

Salary Range

$32K-$122K¹

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