Music Apprenticeships

Can you get an apprenticeship in music?

YES. At times, the music industry can seem like an exclusive members’ club, and in some way, it can be. However, there are plenty of ways to enter the industry that don’t involve having to be a musician.

There is a wide range of music apprenticeships, including aspects you probably didn’t know were possible. 

A music apprenticeship is one of the best routes to a career in music. Why? Because you can start from the moment you finish school at age 16.

How does a music apprenticeship work?

A music apprenticeship is a practical training route for school leavers looking to build a career in the music industry without going through the traditional university path. These apprenticeships combine paid, on-the-job experience with structured learning, typically leading to a recognised qualification in areas such as music production, sound engineering, live events or business. 

Apprentices work for employers like recording studios, music venues, radio stations or music labels, gaining real-world experience while studying part-time through a training provider or college.

Depending on the specific role, apprentices might spend their days assisting with recording sessions, managing social media for artists, helping to plan live events, or learning how to operate sound and lighting equipment. 

Most music apprenticeships last between 1 and 5 years and include off-the-job training (usually one day a week) to build technical knowledge, business skills, and industry awareness. They are also paid, allowing you to earn AND learn.

By the end of the programme, apprentices are equipped with both practical experience and formal credentials, giving them a strong foundation to enter the music industry with confidence.

What types of music apprenticeships are there?

You’d probably be surprised to hear that the music industry isn’t all X Factor. In reality, it’s an incredibly diverse industry with many avenues that don’t require you to pick up a microphone. However, it helps greatly if you have a genuine passion for the music industry. 

There are many music apprenticeships across all levels. You can start an apprenticeship after your GCSEs, A-Levels or as an alternative to university.

• Level 4 Assistant Recording Technician. One for fans of sound design, an assistant recording technician edits and produces music and sound content for use across various platforms, including TV, radio, film and games. You’ll also assist in the final mixing stage, working on levels and adding little touches. After a music apprenticeship, assistant recording technicians can become sound engineers, senior sound technicians or production managers.

• Organ Builder Apprenticeship. Yes. This is real. Organs are one of the most interesting instruments in the world, and you can have a hand in building them. During an organ builder apprenticeship, you’ll learn how to craft, create and assemble an organ and train in organ maintenance and repair. Once you’ve finished training, the Institute of British Organ Building will recognise you as a qualified organ builder.

• Live Sound Production. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work on the sound for a live show or tour, here’s your chance. You'll learn to prepare, maintain, and set up impressive (and heavy) sound equipment as a live sound production apprentice. You’ll also train in how to use the equipment.

• Level 3 Business Administration. Admin is a huge part of the music industry. From handling contracts and maintaining records to attending client meetings and answering enquiries, you’ll ensure the music business's back end is as shiny as the front end.

• Level 3 Label Assistant. If you’ve ever wanted to know what working for a record label is like, now’s your chance. As a label assistant, you’ll work in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same. You’ll cover a range of tasks, including assisting with media campaigns for new artists to admin tasks. Plus, you’ll meet various people, from label executives to artists.

The great thing is you don’t necessarily have to stay within that particular section of the music industry. If you started in sound production, there’s no reason why you can’t move onto the business side and vice versa. It’s all about getting your foot in the door.

Here’s what an apprentice said about their time with fac365:

Which companies offer music apprenticeships?

Now you know what’s available, where can you do a music apprenticeship?

Glad you asked. A few places often advertise music apprenticeships, and to help you find them - they’re below.

Music Industries Association

Also known as the MIA, the Music Industries Association aims to make musical instruments, music technology and music learning accessible to everyone in the UK.

So naturally, it’s a great source to find yourself an apprenticeship. Its industry vacancy page is filled with jobs from every corner of the music industry and often advertises apprenticeships.

The Association of Independent Music (AIM)

If you’re a fan of independent artists and labels, an apprenticeship with AIM will be right up your street. AIM provides services and commercial opportunities to independent labels and artists, helping them innovate, grow and break into new markets.

Its Amplify Apprenticeship Scheme aims to positively impact the music industry by improving diversity and inclusion in the independent music sector. The scheme offers apprenticeships in label assisting, which will lead to a qualification in business administration.

The Brit Trust

You’ve probably heard about the Brit Trust; if you haven’t, you’ll probably have heard of the Brit School and the Brit Awards. They’re all under the same umbrella.

Founded in 1989, the Brit Trust is all about using music for good and providing young people and people from various backgrounds with a route into the music industry.

The Brit Trust often advertises music apprenticeship positions in the following: 

• A&R

• Administration

• Business affairs

• Digital media

• Licensing

• Marketing

What GCSEs and A-levels do you need for a music apprenticeship?

Every level of apprenticeship has a different entry requirement. We’ve listed these below;

• Level 2 - Some ask for two or more GCSEs graded at 9 to 4 (A* to C). However, lots of Level 2 apprenticeships don’t require GCSEs.

• Level 3 - Five GCSEs graded 9 to 4 (A* to C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship

• Level 4/5 (Higher) - Two A-levels or equivalent (like a BTEC or an NVQ/SVQ).

• Level 6/7 (Degree) - Three A-levels graded at A* to C or equivalent.

However, some music apprenticeships will take on apprentices who don’t have the above qualifications. However, you may be asked to take English and Maths GSCEs during your apprenticeship.

It also obviously helps to have a keen interest in the music industry. So when you apply for a music apprenticeship, it’s your opportunity to show off any skills and experience you may have already picked up.

Some skills you’ll likely already have. For example, if you’re applying for a label assistant role, you’ll need to have: 

• Knowledge of Microsoft 360/Google Docs or similar

• Understand how music streaming services work

• Know your way around social media

• Great teamwork

• Attention to detail.

See, you’re halfway there already. It’s also an excellent opportunity to boast about any hobbies you have that are relevant to the music industry on your CV. This can include: 

• Running a music blog or even a vlog

• Being part of a music group or choir

• Producing music

• DJing

• Assisting at music events and festivals.

How much do you get paid for a music apprenticeship?

You’ll earn at least the National Minimum Wage for an apprentice. But employers pay well above the national average.

It all depends on the level of apprenticeship you do. For example, a Level 3 label assistant could earn £24,800 per year. 

As wages vary, shopping around and seeing what’s out there is a good idea.

How do you apply for a music apprenticeship?

Applying for a music apprenticeship starts with finding the right opportunity. You can search music industry job boards, or directly through employers such as recording studios, venues, and labels. It’s also worth checking with training providers or colleges that offer music-related apprenticeships, as they often work with partner employers.

Once you've found a role you're interested in, you'll need to submit an application, usually including a CV and apprenticeship cover letter. This is your chance to show your enthusiasm for music, any relevant skills or experience (even unpaid or informal), and why you’re interested in that particular role.

If your application is successful, you may be invited to an interview or audition, depending on the type of role. Be prepared to talk about your passion for music, your willingness to learn, and any creative projects you've been involved in. A good attitude, commitment, and genuine interest in the industry often matter just as much as formal qualifications.