Denver is committed to providing top-notch training for performing artists starting as early as possible, as evidenced by the fact that it is home to the Denver School of the Arts – a high school that offers dance, theatre and music instruction alongside a strong academic program. The University of Denver offers undergraduate degrees for actors, musicians and singers, and post-graduate study for musicians and singers. Opera singers can apprentice at the Central City Opera. While there is no university training available for dancers, the Colorado Ballet offers a prestigious apprentice program. In addition to the traditional education routes, there are a myriad of summer festivals that offer top-notch training with the best teachers from around the world.
Projections for the music, dance and acting sectors compare favorably with the rest of the labor market in general. All sectors are set to experience a 2% growth annually through to 2012. Dancers can expect 15 new full-time jobs to open up yearly, while musicians and actors can expect 79 and 18 annual positions respectively. It is wise to remember that roughly half of these openings will be replacing vacancies in existing positions as opposed to being newly created jobs – but one should also note that part-time and/or un-salaried positions above and beyond these numbers will likely be available. Overall, the field is very welcoming, especially for musicians.
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