Choreographer
Also called: Dance Director, Dance Maker, Opera Choreographer, Ballet Director
Create new dance routines. Rehearse performance of routines. May direct and stage presentations.
What does a Choreographer do?
- Direct rehearsals to instruct dancers in dance steps and in techniques to achieve desired effects.
- Advise dancers on standing and moving properly, teaching correct dance techniques to help prevent injuries.
- Teach students, dancers, and other performers about rhythm and interpretive movement.
How to become a Choreographer
Training: A high school diploma or GED or a certificate after high school. Employees in these careers need one or two years of training. Both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers may be needed. An apprenticeship program may be a good choice for these careers.
Skills you'll use
Is it a fit for you?
- Self-Confidence
- Leadership Orientation
- Innovation
- Adaptability
- Perseverance
Tools and technology
Questions people ask
How much does a Choreographer make?
About $55,310 a year at the U.S. median. Most earn between $34,090 and $138,630. Pay depends on the state, the employer and experience.
How long does it take to become a Choreographer?
Employees in these careers need one or two years of training. Both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers may be needed. An apprenticeship program may be a good choice for these careers.
Do you need a college degree to be a Choreographer?
No four-year degree is needed. A high school diploma or GED or a certificate after high school.
Is Choreographer a good career to get into?
O*NET lists it as a Bright Outlook career: it's expected to grow quickly or have lots of openings in the next few years.
Related careers
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Build my free kit →National wage figures via O*NET Web Services. This application incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Figures are national estimates and vary by state, employer and experience. Career details from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.