Career activities for music professionals are widely varied and often intertwined.  Most musicians have a combination of facets to their professional activities.  These activities include but are not limited to: music teachers (private and school), college/university professors, performers (soloists as well as in small and large ensembles), music industry specialists (retail, publishing, technology, management), band directors, choir directors, orchestral directors, church musicians/music directors, and military musicians.

Note that those musicians wishing to teach music in the public schools are required to have certification and licensure.  Students that complete the BME degree earn certification and licensure in addition to the degree.