Composer (Concert/Classical)
Funding
Commissions · Grants · Fellowships · Residencies · Institutional support
Structure
Independent creative practice · Project-based commissions · Often portfolio careers
Credentials
Advanced training in composition (degree common but not required) · Strong portfolio
Responsibilities
Composing chamber and orchestral works
Collaborating with performers
Developing proposals
Managing premieres and documentation
Community or site-specific engagement
Pros
High creative autonomy · Deep artistic exploration · Long-term artistic legacy
Challenges
Grant- and commission-dependent income · Slow career progression · Heavy self-promotion