Music Video Choreographer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of endless streaming, the spotlight on music video choreographers has never been more dynamic.

Art and technology progress hand in hand, and with each beat, the demand for creative minds who can design, perfect, and synchronize dances to our favorite tunes only grows louder.

But let’s step back and take a look: What’s truly expected from a music video choreographer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring director imagining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of music video choreography,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we roll out a customizable music video choreographer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Music Video Choreographer Duties and Responsibilities

Music Video Choreographers play a critical role in the success of a music video, combining visual elements with the rhythm and lyrics of the song to create a synchronized dance routine.

They are typically responsible for developing original dance routines, teaching them to artists and dancers, and coordinating their performance for the camera.

The duties and responsibilities of a Music Video Choreographer include:

• Collaborate with directors, artists, and producers to understand the theme, concept, and overall vision of the music video
• Develop original choreography that aligns with the rhythm and feel of the music
• Auditon and select dancers for the music video
• Teach and rehearse dance routines with the artists and dancers
• Coordinate dancers’ movements to ensure synchronicity during performances
• Adapt choreography based on the physical abilities of the artists and dancers
• Work closely with the director during shoots to ensure the choreography is captured as planned
• Make necessary adjustments to the choreography during shooting, as required
• Ensure the health and safety of dancers during rehearsals and video shoots
• Stay updated on the latest dance trends and incorporate them into choreography, as appropriate

 

Music Video Choreographer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an innovative and creative Music Video Choreographer to create compelling dance routines for our music videos.

The Choreographer responsibilities include understanding the director’s vision, the theme of the song, creating dance steps in line with the rhythm and mood of the music, and guiding the performers in executing the choreography.

The ideal candidate should be passionate about dance, have a knack for creativity, and possess an excellent sense of rhythm and timing.

 

Responsibilities

• Interpret the music and storyline to create suitable dance routines.
• Collaborate with directors and performers to ensure a clear understanding of the choreography.
• Teach dance moves and routines to performers in a clear and concise manner.
• Ensure the choreography aligns with the director’s vision and complements the overall production.
• Modify choreography based on performer abilities, scene changes, or directorial decisions.
• Attend rehearsals and video shoots to support performers and provide additional guidance.
• Stay updated with the latest dance trends and incorporate them into routines as appropriate.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a choreographer for music videos or similar productions.
• Extensive knowledge of various dance styles and genres.
• Excellent communication and teaching skills.
• Ability to translate musical elements into dance movements.
• Strong creativity and artistic ability.
• Good physical health and stamina.
• A degree in Dance, Performing Arts, or a related field is preferred.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for creative expression
• Travel opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Music Video Choreographer
• Work Environment: This role often requires irregular hours, including nights and weekends, and involves work in dance studios and on video shoot locations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director or Production Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if traveling is required)
• Employment Type: Full-time, contract, or project-based
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, portfolio of previous work, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Music Video Choreographer Do?

Music Video Choreographers typically work in the entertainment industry, for record labels, production companies, or directly with artists themselves.

They may also work as freelance professionals.

They collaborate closely with the director, artist, and other team members to create dance routines that align with the music, theme, and overall vision of the video.

Their creativity and innovation is key in creating engaging, memorable performances.

Their primary responsibility is to create choreography that not only complements the music but also enhances the storytelling and emotional impact of the music video.

This involves understanding the song’s lyrics, mood, and rhythm, and translating these into physical movements.

They also teach the choreographed dance routine to the artists and dancers, ensuring they can execute the moves accurately and expressively.

They may also be involved in auditions and the selection of backup dancers.

Music Video Choreographers are also responsible for ensuring the dance routine can be performed within the physical and time constraints of the music video set, often adapting and revising choreography as needed.

Their role also includes being present on set during the filming of the music video to provide direction and support to the performers, and to liaise with the director and camera crew on capturing the choreography effectively.

 

Music Video Choreographer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Music Video Choreographer should have the skills and qualifications that fulfill the requirements of your job description, such as:

• Deep understanding of rhythm, music, and movement to create dance routines that align with the theme and rhythm of the music video.
• Exceptional creativity and vision to produce unique and dynamic choreography that enhances the visual appeal of the video.
• Interpersonal skills to effectively communicate and collaborate with the director, artists, and dancers, ensuring the choreography fits the video’s concept and artist’s brand.
• Excellent teaching skills to instruct and guide dancers on movements, expressions, and techniques, often working with diverse skill levels.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills to manage rehearsals, coordinate dancers, and ensure all elements of the choreography are executed precisely and timely.
• Physical fitness and stamina to demonstrate dance moves and participate in long rehearsal hours.
• Problem-solving skills to adjust dance routines when necessary, taking into consideration factors like location limitations, dancer capabilities, or changes in music or direction.

 

Music Video Choreographer Experience Requirements

Music Video Choreographers usually have a background in dance, and often have completed formal dance training at a dance academy or a fine arts school, where they hone their skills and gain considerable experience in various dance forms.

Candidates generally start their career as dancers, and over the years, with consistent performance and experience, they transition into the role of a choreographer.

They might have experience working in dance troupes, theatre productions, or live performances, which all contribute to their understanding of rhythm, body movement, and the ability to create expressive dance routines.

Many Choreographers gain significant experience through assisting established choreographers, learning the intricacies of creating dance routines for the camera.

This might also include understanding music video production, and working closely with directors and artists to understand their vision.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience in choreography, specifically in creating routines for music videos or similar productions, are considered experienced.

They usually have a portfolio of work to showcase their creativity and versatility in choreographing different music genres.

Those with more than 5 years of experience, and a proven track record of successful music video productions, may have the leadership experience necessary to manage a team of dancers, and are often capable of taking on larger, more complex projects.

They may also have experience in teaching dance, which is an added advantage when training dancers for music video performances.

 

Music Video Choreographer Education and Training Requirements

Music Video Choreographers generally require a bachelor’s degree in dance, fine arts, or a related field.

They need to have a strong background in dance and an understanding of different dance styles including contemporary, ballet, hip-hop, and others.

In addition to formal education, Music Video Choreographers need extensive practical experience.

This can be gained through performing, instructing, and developing choreographies for various types of performances.

While there’s no specific certification for Music Video Choreographers, attending workshops and masterclasses conducted by industry professionals can help them stay updated with the latest trends and techniques.

Having a master’s degree in dance or choreography may provide an edge, particularly for those seeking to work with top music artists or for renowned production houses.

Continued education is also crucial in this field to keep up with evolving music styles and dance trends.

Many successful choreographers also have a background in music theory, which enables them to create dances that complement the rhythm, melody, and mood of the music.

Furthermore, networking and making connections within the music and entertainment industry is an essential part of a choreographer’s professional development.

This can lead to opportunities to choreograph for music videos, live performances, and tours.

Finally, strong creativity, physical fitness, and excellent communication skills are also necessary to excel in this role.

 

Music Video Choreographer Salary Expectations

A Music Video Choreographer can expect to earn an average salary of $50,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can greatly vary depending on the choreographer’s reputation, experience, the budget of the project, and the location where the video is being produced.

 

Music Video Choreographer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Music Video Choreographer need?

A Music Video Choreographer should possess strong dance and movement skills, creativity, and an understanding of music and rhythm.

They should also have excellent communication and teaching skills to effectively convey choreography to dancers and performers.

Additionally, they should have good collaboration skills to work with directors, producers, and artists.

 

Do Music Video Choreographers need a degree?

While a degree is not always required, a bachelor’s degree in dance, choreography, or a related field can be beneficial.

Many Music Video Choreographers start as dancers and naturally progress into choreography.

They often gain experience and build their portfolio by creating and performing dances in various settings.

 

What should you look for in a Music Video Choreographer’s resume?

Experience is key in a Music Video Choreographer’s resume.

Look for a history of choreography for music videos, concerts, or stage performances.

Also, check for a background in dance and any special training or certifications.

References from directors, artists, or dance companies they have worked with in the past can also be useful.

 

What qualities make a good Music Video Choreographer?

A good Music Video Choreographer has a deep passion for dance and music, as well as a creative mind to develop unique and compelling choreography.

They should be adaptable and able to work under pressure, as production schedules can be tight.

Excellent communication skills are necessary to instruct and work with performers of varying dance abilities.

Additionally, they should be collaborative and capable of working well with a diverse team of creatives.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Music Video Choreographer?

Hiring a Music Video Choreographer can be challenging, as it requires finding a professional who not only has excellent choreographic skills but also understands the vision of the music video.

They need to be able to create dance sequences that align with the style of the music and the artist’s brand.

Therefore, you must be prepared to thoroughly review portfolios and conduct in-depth interviews to find the right fit.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve taken a peek behind the curtain to understand what it truly means to be a music video choreographer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about dancing.

It’s about orchestrating visual artistry, one move at a time.

With our reliable music video choreographer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the stage.

But why stop there?

Step further into the spotlight with our job description generator. It’s your next move for creating detailed job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every dance move is a part of a grander vision.

Let’s dance that future. Together.

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