What Are the Job Qualifications to Be a Music Reporter?
Composer Ludwig von Beethoven once said, “Music is a higher revelation than all wisdom and philosophy.” Journalists who cover the music scene would agree with the famous musician. To them, music not only provides spiritual nourishment but a source of livelihood, as well. The field of music journalism will not be easy to break into and does not pay very much, but if you have a passion for it, follow your dream.
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Education
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Obtaining a two or four-year degree in journalism will help you get a job as a music reporter. Journalism courses will teach you how to write, how to interview and how to research. You might also want to consider a minor or concentration in music, which will deepen your knowledge of the topic. If your school does not offer such a minor or concentration, try to take as many classes on music theory and history as you can.
Professional Experience
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To show your strong desire to enter the field of music journalism, you need to gain professional experience before you even leave college. Cover music events for your local or university newspaper. Find internships at newspapers, even if such positions do not pay anything. Any articles you write about musical acts or new albums can be placed in a portfolio to show to potential employers.
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Flexibility
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Be prepared to take assignments you don't find interesting. You might love rock music, but if your boss says the only available assignment is a classical music concert, you will have to cover it if you want to keep your job. The assignments you want might be few and far between, so you cannot be too picky about which articles you choose to write. Anything you write about will gain you much-needed exposure.
Persistence
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Annie Reuter, freelance music journalist, counsels budding reporters to persevere, no matter how difficult breaking into the field may be. “Everyone makes excuses that their industry is so hard to break into,” says Reuter, “but you have to stop making excuses and just do it.” She recommends working as hard as you can. “It doesn’t happen overnight,” Reuter adds, “but the longer you stick with it, you’ll be amazed at how things do work out.”
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References
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