Choreographer Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a choreographer. Feel free to use our choreographer job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a choreographer.
Who is a Choreographer?
A choreographer is someone who designs and directs routines for dance, gymnastic events, and other performance art. The choreographer spends a lot of time creating, editing, and practicing routines to make sure they fit with the music, are entertaining for judges and audiences, and that they meet the required level of difficulty. While some choreographers can start their businesses and offer freelance services, the majority are employed by schools, dance studios, television production companies, and universities.
A professional choreographer can work with one dancer, two dancers, or an entire troupe. He or she will listen carefully to music and work out the timing and nature for different steps. Choreographers are very close to dancers and teach them by giving instructions and showing them how to move. Choreographers provide guidance and encouragement to help dancers learn their routines in preparation for performing in front of an audience. A choreographer’s work is time-consuming and demanding. Professionals can spend many weeks, or even months, creating, organizing, directing practice, and making minor changes to difficult dance pieces.
Highly skilled choreographers can use their knowledge of human movement and the human body to choreograph routines that are suitable for cheerleaders, divers, gymnasts, ice skaters, and others who take part in events where predetermined physical moves must be performed. For example, a gymnastics choreographer might assist a team with creating challenging, visually appealing routines for floor exercises, parallel bars, rings, and other related activities. A cheerleading team might use a choreographer to create dance routines that entertain and excite the crowd. Another choreographer might be employed by a film or television production company to orchestrate fight scenes or car chase scenes.
Many choreographers have been involved in dance and music since childhood. To learn how to execute certain moves, they have spent many years studying the routines and dancers of other choreographers. A person who is a skilled dancer and wishes to be a professional choreographer may pursue a degree from a reputable university or a certificate from a recognized dance school to enhance their skills and gain an academic view of dance and movement. Many choreographers start their careers as apprentices to experienced professionals. They learn simple routines and then move on to more complex work.
Bob Fosse and Alvin Ailey are just a few of the famous choreographers who work as freelancers. Other choreographers may work in dance studios, universities, and movie or television production companies.
A choreographer might work with one dancer or a large group. They can also teach dance moves and guide the dancers. Although the final dance may only take a few minutes, it can take weeks or even months to perfect even a brief routine.
Choreographers are not only professional dancers. They also use their dance knowledge and body movements to choreograph routines to suit a variety of other professionals such as cheerleaders and divers, cheerleaders, and synchronized swimmers. A choreographer can help anyone who has to perform a routine to music. Modern choreographers use modern technology to sync dance moves with music and lights.
Choreographer Job Description
Below are the choreographer job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write a choreographer job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
The duties and responsibilities of a choreographer include the following:
- Explaining steps to dancers, and adapting them as necessary
- Experimenting in different dance styles and moves and getting feedback from dancers
- Supervising the audition process for dance or show companies
- Choosing music to accompany your dance moves
- Creating dance routines that are in sync with lyrics and music
- Contributing to the creative aspects of dance shows such as costumes, lighting, and sound design
- Working with the Director to understand the requirements and limitations of the project and to collaborate with them on lighting, music, and costumes to ensure those dance routines are done to the highest standards.
- Creating dance steps that fit with the mood, music, theme, and that are audience-appropriate.
- Assisting, guiding, and explaining all steps to dancers.
- Conducting research by attending dance performances and watching them.
- Notifying the Director or other stakeholders of potential issues and preparing contingency plans.
- Scheduling one-on-one sessions with additional support if needed.
- Attending rehearsals, performances, meetings, and other events on time.
- Handling administrative tasks and paperwork.
- Developing ideas, creating routines, and sharing them with others to achieve a polished performance
- Discussing ideas and plans with producers and costume designers as well as musical and artistic directors.
- Choosing music that is appropriate for the subject or concept you are working with
- Working with other professionals to choreograph fight scenes and theatrical stunts
- Working on multiple shows at once
- Meeting regularly with producers, musical directors, and costume designers.
- Making dance routines that match the music or lyrics in a performance or production.
- Making sure you attend rehearsals with Dancers and Cast members to ensure everyone understands the routine and is on the same page
- Making sure the routine is attractive to the audience. Also, make sure everyone is on time and in sync with the music.
- Trying out different dancers, steps, and dance placements.
- Getting feedback from the dancers by informal testing of ideas.
- Reading and studying storylines and musical scores to understand how to translate emotions and ideas into dance movements.
Qualifications
Although there are no formal requirements to be a choreographer, many begin their careers as dancers. Many also study dance at college and university. More important than academic qualifications is a background in dance, preferably as a performer.
Many courses in dance performance offer a choreography option. You can take courses in dance and performing arts (including dancing) at various levels: from National Certificate (NC), National Qualification (NQ), Higher National Certificate, Higher National Diploma (HND), and a degree.
Although some courses require academic qualifications, there is usually an audition. Experience in English is helpful for many courses. Many dancers begin their careers at an early age, and then take dance classes to grade their skills.
Private schools also offer courses. The Council for Dance, Drama and Musical Theatre (CDMT) has information about recognized dance courses.
Essential Skills
- Creativity
Choreographers need to be creative. To create dance routines, choreographers must be able to think on their feet and use their imagination.
Creativity is key because choreography is an art form. Every choreographer must be able not only to draw from their inspiration but also to think up new ideas to make their routines unique.
- Curiosity
Choreographers need to be open to learning about other types of dance, such as tap, and modern, flamenco. Your curiosity will fuel your creativity and help you create new and innovative routines.
It’s also helpful to have a good knowledge of the different types of dance. It’s not enough to be curious about other styles of dancing. You may also need to have a thirst for theatre, television, and other entertainments, such as art and architecture.
- People Skills
The choreographer must be able to communicate with their dancers and their team. You must be able to communicate with different types of people to create a dynamic group.
This is also true for other staff members (technicians and admins, etc.). The project may also require financial and business partners. To realize their dreams, a choreographer must build a community of people. It is also important to network.
- Rigour
Choreographers need to be meticulous, not only when creating routines but also in all aspects of choreography.
They must also consider the finer details of each performance, as well as budgetary considerations.
This is a great skill to have when managing rehearsals and a group of dancers. An eye for detail helps here.
- Observation Skills
A choreographer requires a keen eye in the same way. They will need to be open to inspiration. They will also have to be vigilant during recruitment to make sure they have the right dancers to fill the roles.
To ensure that everyone is performing well, they will closely monitor rehearsals and performances. They will be able to see what each dancer can do and how they can get the best out of it.
They will use their observation skills to keep an eye on the group dynamics, manage conflicts and make sure that each dancer remains focused on the choreography.
- Availability
The choreographer must be available to dancers and their teams. They will need to be willing to work with a group.
Although a lot is done in isolation, it’s important to work with others. Both of these are essential skills for a choreographer.
They must be available to their team, and open to receiving their ideas and feedback.
- Listening Skills
A choreographer must also use their ears. They need to pay attention to the feedback from their dancers.
They will also need to be open to criticism and willing to learn from it. They must also be open to criticism and look for opportunities to advance their careers.
- Stress-management Skills
You might feel stressed as the day approaches. Stress can set in for any creative endeavor, even if you have created it.
Choreographers need to be able to manage their stress. Your dancers shouldn’t be stressed out. You need to be there to help them solve their problems. It’s easier to do this when you have a good way of managing stress.
- Perseverance
Choreographers must be persistent. Inspiration, practice, and hard work are all necessary for creativity. It is possible to spend hours on rehearsals.
It is important to be persistent and unafraid in the promotion of your work.
- Teaching skills
Choreographers must also be able to teach their dancers.
They should enjoy showing their dancers their choreography. It may be seen by a large audience. The choreographers must be able to move people through their routines and not just dancers.
How to Become a Choreographer
To become a choreographer, you must have experience and a strong background in dance. These steps will help you get started in this career.
- Take classes as soon as possible
Many people who are interested in dance careers start taking classes as early as possible. You can take a variety of dance classes in high school, including jazz, modern, and hip-hop. Many community programs and dance schools offer classes, camps, and workshops. These classes are a great way to learn the basics of various styles and improve your dance skills.
- Continue your formal training
You can begin formal dance training once you have finished high school. You have many options, including after-school classes or intensive summer training programs through companies and dance schools. Advanced training can prepare you for a career as a dancer or college programs. You may find a preferred style of dance at this stage, such as hip-hop or ballet. Although you might be able to focus only on one area, choreographers should still study all dance types. A broad dance knowledge allows you to comprehend different movements and incorporate them into your choreography.
- A post-secondary degree is possible
You can also pursue post-secondary education, although it is not necessary. There are associate, bachelor, and master’s degree programs in dance and choreography. These programs are often open to applicants who have formal dance training. You might also consider a degree as a musical theatre director and study relevant dance courses. Although not all employers require that choreographer candidates have a degree in dance history or industry, these programs can help you to increase your knowledge of the subject. Additionally, you will learn techniques to improve your technique such as movement analysis, choreography composition, and teaching methods.
The National Association of Schools of Dance can help you find programs that are accredited. This accreditation helps to assess the quality of the education. Post-secondary degrees are a great way to get dance experience. Students often take part in choreography or dance showcases. These programs can also help you make professional connections and get access to internship opportunities.
- Get professional experience
You may be looking for opportunities to showcase your dancing skills in recitals, festivals, and productions as you begin your career. As a visual representation of your dance skills and qualifications, you should create a dance portfolio that you can show potential employers. You can continue to develop your skills and expand your professional network by being a dancer. You can meet other professionals in the field, who may be able to connect you with opportunities. Additionally, you might work with choreographers who could offer guidance or mentorship about this career.
Many choreographers who are interested in becoming dance instructors also have entry-level positions. You may be able to find work at schools or community programs depending on your skills and experience. Instructors can use their dance skills to teach others how to do steps with precise rhythm and movement. You may be able to choreograph routines if your workplace hosts student showcases. Your professional network and experience can help you advance in your career.
Where to Work
You will likely be involved in multiple productions at once. While you may be primarily employed in rehearsal and dance rooms, there are also opportunities to work in theatres, film and television studios, nightclubs or halls as well as holiday centers.
Choreographer Salary Scale
In the United States, the average Choreographer earns $62,787 annually.