November 21, 2008 by John Ericson

Archived under: Deep thoughts, Random

Where the Money Is


One of my former teachers used to say, somewhat in jest, “first horn, that’s where the money is.” In an orchestra horn section it is where the money is, as contracts typically guarantee that principal players will be paid at least 25% overscale, and they will have more income opportunities outside the orchestra than members of the section (teaching, gigs, etc.).

But the real money is up on the podium. Conductors are well paid in the academic and professional worlds. In fact, seven music directors in the United States during the 2005-06 season were paid over $1,000,0000 a year. Over at Adaptistration Drew McManus lays it out:

  • New York Philharmonic $2,189,455
  • Chicago Symphony $1,910,997
  • Philadelphia Orchestra $1,586,000
  • San Francisco Symphony $1,576,874
  • Los Angeles Philharmonic $1,576,285
  • Boston Symphony $1,536,768
  • Cleveland Orchestra $1,226,197

Something to think over if conducting is one of your strong interests, as there is certainly room for a few more good conductors out there. (Which would be another topic for discussion, are the words “good” and “conductor” mutually exclusive words? Many orchestral players would tend to say they are.)

JOHN ERICSON has wide-ranging experience as an orchestral player, soloist, and teacher.» About John Ericson » More articles » Horn Notes Edition » Contact

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Where the Money Is
Published on November 21, 2008 by John Ericson

Archived under: Deep thoughts, Random
John Ericson & Bruce Hembd
on the French horn, brass related topics, and the field of classical music.