Artist and Repertoire Representatives (also known as A&R Reps) are employed by record labels to locate new talent to add to the company's roster, fond songs for non-song writing artists already on the label, and to act as a go-between for the artist and label. Three things one should know about A&R Reps are employment opportunities, advancement opportunities, and qualifications needed.
             The majority of employment opportunities for Artist and Repertoire Representatives are in the major recording capitals which are New York City, Los Angeles, and Nashville. However, there are thousands of smaller, independent labels all over Canada which also need A&R Reps. There are also opportunities to be a contact for larger labels in smaller cities. There are a few of these jobs even in Saskatchewan.
             As an Artist and Repertoire Representative, one's opportunities for advancement are very limited. To most A&R Reps, advancement means having a secure job or finding a position at a larger, more prestigious company. Another way to advance is having the opportunity to start a new label. This is said to be in the back of most A&R Reps' minds. Since pay in this job can be as low as $18000 US a year, a raise in salary can also be seen as an advancement. Advancing in such a fast paced and in demand job is difficult, and usually achieved by signing artists who then create hit records.
             To become an A&R Rep no specific degree is required, nor is any sort of college education. In most cases, however, one with a degree is given priority when it comes to employment. Degrees which increase one's qualifications for this job include communications, music business, music merchandising, marketing, public relations, English, and liberal arts. Taking in workshops, seminars, or classes related to these areas are also very helpful. While A&R Representatives don't require any formal training in music, one needs to have an outstanding love of music in order to spend m
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