Musician CV Example & Writing Guide for 2024

Ensure your CV format is structured to best highlight your unique experience and life situation.

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How to write a musician CV

Before you begin writing, make sure you know how to write a CV in a way that best emphasises your strengths.

To make a lasting impression in the competitive field of music, your CV must showcase your talent as well as your versatility, experience, and ability to engage audiences.

Whether you’re a performer, composer, or music teacher, your CV should clearly convey your unique skills and musical voice.

Below are our expert tips on how to create a compelling musician CV that captures the attention of hiring managers, venue bookers, and music schools.

1. Write a dynamic personal statement

Your personal statement should provide a snapshot of your musical career and professional goals. Start by stating your primary instrument(s), your genre or style, and your level of experience.

You should also include key achievements that highlight your expertise and ability to engage audiences. And, if relevant, mention any notable collaborations, recordings, or tours.

End your personal statement by providing a reason why you’re applying for the specific musician role or performance opportunity. This could be your passion for the institution’s mission, your enthusiasm for a new creative challenge, or your interest in a particular genre or ensemble.

Personal statement for a musician’s CV

Classically trained violinist with over 10 years of experience performing as a soloist and ensemble member across the UK and Europe. Adept in a wide range of genres, including classical and contemporary music, with a strong background in orchestral and chamber music settings. Notable performances include solo recitals at the Royal Albert Hall and collaborations with renowned conductors such as Sir Simon Rattle. Passionate about engaging audiences and eager to bring my expertise and creativity to the London Symphony Orchestra.

2. Showcase your performance and musical experience

The work experience section should demonstrate your breadth and depth as a musician. Include all relevant experiences, from professional performances and teaching roles to studio recordings. Each entry should highlight your responsibilities, the context of your work (e.g., venue size, audience, or type of ensemble), and key achievements.

For each role, use bullet points to make it easy to read and focus on measurable achievements when possible, such as the number of performances, size of ensembles, or successful student outcomes.

Example work experience for a musician

Principal Violinist
London Philharmonic Orchestra, London | September 20XX – Present

• Lead violinist for the London Philharmonic Orchestra, performing in over 60 concerts annually, including international tours in Europe, Asia, and North America
• Collaborated with prominent guest conductors and soloists to deliver critically acclaimed performances
• Managed section rehearsals and provided mentorship to junior musicians, enhancing overall section performance and cohesion

3. Highlight your musical skills and techniques

Your skills section should focus on technical, creative, and interpersonal skills relevant to the music industry. Include skills that demonstrate your musical proficiency, versatility, and ability to work in a collaborative environment. If applicable, mention any specific software or music technology skills that are important for modern music production and performance.

Example skills section for a musician’s CV

• Instruments: Violin, Piano, Viola
• Music theory and composition
• Conducting and ensemble direction
• Sibelius, Finale, and Pro Tools for composition, arrangement, and recording purposes
• Fluent in English, and French; Reading knowledge of German

4. Detail your education and professional training

Your education section should include your formal education as well as any specialised music training or masterclasses. Start with your highest qualification and work backwards. If you studied under any notable teachers or took part in significant workshops or masterclasses, mention these to show your commitment to your craft and continuous learning.

Example Education Section:

Master of Music (MMus) in Violin Performance
Royal Academy of Music, London | Graduated: July 20XX

Bachelor of Music (BMus) with Honours
Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London | Graduated: July 20XX

Additional Training:

• Masterclass with Itzhak Perlman, Verbier Festival Academy, Switzerland | 20XX
• Conducting Workshop with Sir Simon Rattle, LSO Discovery, London | 20XX

Need more ideas?

Our library of CV examples has hundreds of tailored CVs you can use to fine-tune your job application and stand out from other applicants.