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Bassoon Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Bassoon information

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$18

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How much do bassoon jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for bassoon in the United States is $21.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bassoon?

A bassoon job typically refers to a professional musician who plays the bassoon in orchestras, ensembles, or as a soloist. Bassoonists perform in symphonies, opera houses, chamber groups, or for recordings. They may also teach, compose, or arrange music. Many bassoonists hold positions in professional orchestras or work as freelance performers. Strong technical skill and musicality are essential for success in this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a professional bassoonist in an orchestra or ensemble?

As a professional Bassoonist, your daily responsibilities often include attending rehearsals, practicing individual parts, and maintaining your instrument to ensure optimal performance quality. You will work closely with conductors, other woodwind section members, and the broader orchestra to refine musical pieces and interpret repertoire as a group. Outside of rehearsals and performances, you may also participate in sectional meetings, ensemble outreach, and special projects such as recording sessions or educational events. The role requires a balance of individual preparation and collaborative effort to achieve cohesive, high-caliber performances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the bassoon position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a professional Bassoonist, you need advanced musical training, sight-reading proficiency, and mastery in bassoon performance, often demonstrated by a degree in music or equivalent professional experience. Familiarity with orchestral rehearsal software, metronomes, and performance aids is common, and some positions may require audition certifications or union membership. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills help you integrate within ensembles and respond to conductor or collaborator direction. These skills and qualities are essential for delivering polished performances, maintaining high artistic standards, and fostering productive collaboration within musical groups.

More about Bassoon jobs

What cities are hiring for Bassoon jobs?

Cities with the most Bassoon job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Bassoon jobs?

The most popular types of Bassoon jobs are:

What states have the most Bassoon jobs?

States with the most job openings for Bassoon jobs include:

Infographic showing various Bassoon job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Full Time, and 79% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,000 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Instructor of Bassoon

Cleveland, OH โ€ข On-site

$85 - $100/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Summary


The Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM) invites applications from nationally or internationally recognized artist-teachers for a part-time faculty appointment in Bassoon. While this position will begin with the 2027-28 academic year, CIM seeks to fill it in time to include the successful candidate in the audition process, starting in early 2027.  This person will join a bassoon faculty at CIM that includes John Clouser (Conservatory), Jonathan Sherwin (Contrabassoon), and Mark DeMio (Academy).


In alignment with CIM’s Mission, Vision, and Institutional Learning Goals, the Instructor of Bassoon will teach and mentor applied students in the Conservatory or other divisions as assigned. Ideal candidates will demonstrate a proven record of recruiting and teaching outstanding students in a conservatory or university music school, experience guiding students along multiple stages of development, and a noted reputation as a performer. 


Review of applications begins September 28, 2026, and continues until the position is filled. Please submit a cover letter that responds to CIM’s mission and vision; statement of your teaching philosophy; CV; links to 2 videos of solo, chamber, or concert performances; and 2-3 references with contact information. Additional materials may be requested at a later date. 


Faculty will be ranked as Assistant Instructor, Associate Instructor, or Instructor depending on qualifications. This is a bargaining unit position covered by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between CIM and AFM Local 4.


Primary Duties and Responsibilities


  • Empower each student to perform with technical prowess and informed, compelling artistry by: 
    • Comprehensively and sequentially guiding them through their course of study.
    • Teaching applied lessons and studio classes.
    • Preparing students for regular participation in performances.
    • Preparing students for curricular assessment requirements.
    • Mentoring students along their educational and career paths.
  • Maintain performance visibility, actively recruit prospective students, and participate in all stages of the application, audition, and enrollment process.
  • Communicate promptly, professionally, and effectively with students, families, colleagues, and administration.
  • As assigned, may coach chamber music, teach repertoire classes, lead sectionals, or engage in other related instructional activities.
  • Adhere to the CBA, Faculty Duties and Expectations, and Employee Handbook.


Education, Experience and Qualifications


A qualified candidate will possess:

  • A master’s degree in bassoon performance or demonstrated relevant experience.
  • A minimum of five years of experience teaching promising students of various ages and levels, and a track record of helping them achieve their desired outcomes.
  • A reputation as a successful solo, chamber, studio, and/or orchestral performer.
  • An awareness of various pedagogical approaches and an ability to apply them to each student’s unique needs and goals.
  • An extensive knowledge of a diverse and dynamic repertoire that can inspire and connect with students and audiences from a variety of backgrounds. 


Personal Attributes


The ideal candidate is an excellent musician and focused teacher whose experiences and passions are oriented towards guiding, developing and nurturing students. This role requires:

  • Curiosity, creativity, and imagination in one’s own artistry and aspirations.
  • Familiarity with trends and best practices in musical pedagogy, with a firmly developed personal approach to teaching and student development.
  • Working independently and consistently demonstrating a high level of reliability, responsibility, and trustworthiness.
  • Consistent, timely response in communications and planning as part of a team.
  • Ability to take concrete steps to build a more inclusive future of classical music.


Working Conditions


Within the parameters of CIM’s Academic Calendar, the Instructor of Bassoon will need to work within their own and students’ demanding schedules to regularly schedule lessons, which may occur in the evenings or on weekends. 


2026-27 Instructor-Track Pay Rates


Conservatory Instruction


Primary Applied Instruction: $1,850 (Assistant Instructor), $2,250 (Associate Instructor) or $2,750 (Instructor) per FTE student per semester


Secondary Applied Instruction (secondary lessons, coachings, sectionals, etc.): 
 $85 (Assistant Instructor), $100 (Associate Instructor), $150 (Instructor) per hour