Mike Risko Music presents Careers in Music Programs, inspired by the NAMM Foundation’s Careers in Music initiative.
The goal of this program is to open students’ eyes to the many careers that exist within the music industry. Performance and music education are powerful and viable professional paths — and they are part of a much larger ecosystem that also includes production, technology, sound engineering, composition, instrument repair, retail, management, and more.
Through interactive presentations, live demonstrations, and age-appropriate activities, we help students connect their interests and strengths to meaningful possibilities in music.
Who We Serve
Our Careers in Music Programs are designed to inspire and educate students and young creatives across a wide range of learning environments.
We proudly work with elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, and colleges or universities, as well as vocational and technical programs that focus on career readiness. In addition to the traditional academic settings, we also partner with community centers & recreation programs, youth organizations, and scout groups that are looking to provide engaging educational experiences in the music arts.
Full Presentation vs. Career Day Participation
Which Type is Right For You?
Careers in Music Presentations
Our full Careers in Music Presentation is a structured and guided program that is thoughtfully tailored to match the age group, experience level, and setting of each audience. Our presentation includes interactive presentation materials, live demonstrations, and age-appropriate activities designed to make the learning experience both engaging and informative.
This program is best suited for (though not limited to):
- Assemblies
- Classroom Blocks
- Music Departments
- Career Pathway Initiatives
- College and Vocational Programming
Career Day Participation
Invite Mike Risko Music to your next Career Day event! Career Day Participation is designed to be more informal and discussion-based, allowing others to interact freely and learn at their own pace.
During these type of events, Mike Risko Music can set up an informational table where students and/or attendees can stop by to ask us questions and learn more about music-related careers, and gather printed materials for further exploration.
Careers in Music Programs
Our Careers in Music presentations are adapted to suit the age level and setting of our audience. Explore below to learn about the differences with each program.
Elementary School (Grades K–5)
Our elementary program introduces careers in music in a developmentally appropriate and engaging way. Students explore music-related roles through:
- Interactive discussion
- Creative activities
- Simple role-playing
- Printable coloring and reflection sheets
When appropriate, we also include live musical examples to help students connect what they see and hear to the careers being discussed.
At this level, the focus is inspiration. Students begin to understand that music connects to creativity, teamwork, leadership, technology, and community — and that there are many exciting ways to be involved in music.
Middle & High School (Grades 6–12)
For middle and high school students, we present an interactive program aligned with the NAMM Consider a Career in Music initiative. These sessions may include:
- An interactive PowerPoint and video component
- Live music demonstrations
- Real-world examples of industry tools and equipment
- Practical demonstrations such as instrument maintenance or technical setup
- Open discussion and Q&A
Students explore professional pathways connected to music, including:
- Performance and Music Education
- Production and Recording
- Live Sound and Technology
- Instrument Repair and Retail
- Business, Management, and Entrepreneurship
We also discuss general educational pathways and how students can begin preparing for future opportunities, without focusing on specific schools or programs.
College & Post-Secondary Programs
At the college or post-secondary level, the format becomes more discussion-based.
Rather than a structured presentation, these sessions are conversational and reflective, exploring:
- Industry Realities
- Evolving Career Landscapes
- The Intersection of Creativity and Business
- Professional Skills Beyond Performance
- Leadership and Advocacy in Music
This format works well for college classes, vocational programs, and professional development settings.
Community Outreach & Program Details
We love partnering with schools and community organizations to support music education and career exploration.
Many of our outreach visits — such as Career Day participation — are offered at no charge as part of our commitment to giving back to the community, and are scheduled throughout the year based on availability.
For more formal presentations, extended programs, or college-level lectures, program fees may apply.
Request a Careers in Music Program
We would be happy to discuss how this program can best serve your students or organization.
Please complete the inquiry, and we will follow up to discuss availability and next steps.