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Background Vocalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Musical Encounters Inc

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Full-Time Therapeutic Musician - Washington DC

Washington, DC · On-site

$22.50 - $25/hr

Proven experience as a vocalist proficient in guitar or piano accompaniment; other instrument skills are welcome. * Background in music performance and knowledge of appropriate musical selections for ...

Arista HealthCare

Musical Volunteer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Help create peaceful, meaningful moments Musicians Welcome We welcome vocalists and ... Background check * Drug screening * TB test * Three personal references * Arizona Fingerprint ...

Heart to Heart Hospice

Got Music?

Burleson, TX · On-site

Whether you are a vocalist or you play an instrument, you can bring the joy of live music to ... Volunteer Training Modules (at-home online) TB Test - free Background Check - free Patients ...

Archdiocese of St. Louis

Singer

Cottleville, MO · On-site

The Staff Vocalist works closely with the Director of Music, choir members, clergy ... The screening will include criminal background check, Family Care Safety Registration, drug screen ...

Archdiocese of St. Louis

Singer

Cottleville, MO · On-site

The Staff Vocalist works closely with the Director of Music, choir members, clergy ... The screening will include criminal background check, Family Care Safety Registration, drug screen ...

Praxis, Inc.

Music Director

Englewood, CO · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Manage scheduling for musicians and vocalists with strong communication and adequate lead time ... Background * 5+ years of church worship ministry leadership experience preferred * Full-time ...

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Background Vocalist information

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$21.5K

$50.1K

$73.5K

How much do background vocalist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for background vocalist in the United States is $50,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $59,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a background vocalist?

Background vocalists are singers who provide supporting vocals in a musical performance or recording, usually harmonizing with or complementing the lead vocalist. Their role is crucial in enhancing the overall sound, adding depth, and enriching the musical arrangement. Background vocalists may sing in unison, harmony, or provide vocal effects, and they work in various settings such as live concerts, studio recordings, and television performances. They often need to blend their voices seamlessly with others and adapt to different musical genres.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a background vocalist?

To thrive as a Background Vocalist, you need strong vocal ability, musical ear, harmony skills, and experience with live or studio performances, often supported by vocal training or music education. Familiarity with microphones, in-ear monitors, recording software, and sometimes music notation is essential for professional settings. Adaptability, teamwork, punctuality, and the ability to follow direction make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure seamless musical support, blend, and reliability, which are crucial for enhancing the overall sound and success of performances or recordings.

How does a background vocalist collaborate with lead singers and the band during performances and recordings?

Background vocalists work closely with lead singers, instrumentalists, and producers to create a cohesive sound. This often involves attending rehearsals to learn harmonies, blending vocal tone, and adjusting timing to ensure smooth synchronization with the lead vocals. During recording sessions, background vocalists may be asked to experiment with different harmonies or vocal textures, and adaptability is key. In live performances, communication and attentive listening are essential to support the lead without overpowering them, contributing to the overall atmosphere and energy on stage.

What is the difference between Background Vocalist vs Lead Vocalist?

AspectBackground VocalistLead Vocalist
CredentialsVocal training, singing experienceVocal training, singing experience, often more prominent
Work EnvironmentStudio recordings, live performances as part of a groupLead performances, front-stage roles, solo or band leader
Industry UsageMusic, recording studios, live concertsMusic, concerts, recordings, often the main act

Background Vocalists support the main singer by providing harmony and depth, often performing in the background during live shows or recordings. Lead Vocalists are the primary singers, responsible for the main melody and often the face of the performance. Both roles require vocal skills and experience, but their responsibilities and prominence differ significantly.

How much do background vocalists make?

Background vocalists typically earn between $50 and $200 per hour, depending on experience, the production, and the location. Salaries can also be offered as flat fees for specific projects or performances, with some earning additional income through touring or session work.

How to get a job as a background vocalist?

To become a background vocalist, develop strong vocal skills and learn to blend with lead singers. Gain experience through local performances, build a professional demo, and network with musicians and industry professionals. Auditions and open calls are common ways to secure background singing roles in recording sessions or live performances.
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What states have the most Background Vocalist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Background Vocalist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Background Vocalist jobs?

For Background Vocalist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Background Vocalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Vocalist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,117 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Full-Time Therapeutic Musician - Washington DC

Washington, DC • On-site

Musical Encounters Inc
See more jobs at Musical Encounters Incexternal

$22.50 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 hours ago

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Job description

Description: We are seeking a talented and dedicated Full-Time Therapeutic Musician who is a vocalist with experience in guitar and/or piano accompaniment to provide engaging musical programs for the elderly around the Washington DC, Silver Springs, and Northern VA area. This full-time role includes weekend hours on rotation, programming development, and participation in regular meetings and reporting. The musician will deliver 1-on-1 and group music services, facilitate non-musical activities, and create reports to support the activities department. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed.

Responsibilities:

  • Deliver musical programs designed to connect with and engage elderly audiences.
  • Facilitate and lead non-musical activities as needed, following training.
  • Motivate participation through engaging activities that enrich residents' experiences.
  • Prepare reports detailing observations of participants' communication, cognitive abilities, motor skills, and general engagement.
  • Collaborate in the development and customization of musical programming.
  • Attend and actively participate in regular meetings and provide timely activity reports.
  • Provide coverage for part-time musician assignments and support office research needs.
  • Execute market research and marketing tasks to identify potential new clients.
  • Demonstrate strong musical proficiency and commitment to enhancing resident engagement.
  • Travel to different locations to deliver services and maintain a flexible schedule, including weekend shifts.
  • Meet physical demands, including prolonged sitting and standing, lifting up to 20 pounds, bending, and walking.

Requirements:

  • Proven experience as a vocalist proficient in guitar or piano accompaniment; other instrument skills are welcome.
  • Background in music performance and knowledge of appropriate musical selections for elderly audiences.
  • Excellent communication skills for effective presentations and interaction.
  • Ability to travel and perform in various locations; valid driver’s license required.
  • Weekend availability on a rotating basis.
  • Must be vaccinated against COVID-19 as per client requirements.
  • Proficiency in using Zoom or online platforms, with a stable internet connection for remote work.
  • Willingness to undergo training for non-musical services as part of our holistic approach.
  • Dependability and flexibility in scheduling and tasks.
  • Commitment to professional development and readiness for certification related to elderly care.

Benefits:

  • Retirement plan.
  • Paid sick leave.
  • Paid training and professional growth opportunities.

If you are a talented musician who values making a difference in the lives of the elderly and meets the qualifications listed above, we invite you to join our team.

Company Description

MUSICAL ENCOUNTERS INC. designs and performs a wide range of musical programming for the elderly and provides educational services for activity professionals. We believe that creative experiences do not stop at retirement and that the elderly have a right to fulfillment in all aspects of life.

Our goal is to provide creative resources with a pool of qualified professionals who are eager to serve the community.