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Choir Director Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Choir Director information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$26.8K

$70.4K

$375.8K

How much do choir director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for choir director in Rio Rancho, NM is $70,423.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,200.00 and $62,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Choir Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Choir Director, you need strong musical knowledge, conducting skills, and often a degree in music or choral conducting. Familiarity with music notation software, audio recording tools, and rehearsal management systems is commonly required. Leadership, clear communication, and patience are standout soft skills for inspiring and guiding choir members. These abilities are essential for creating cohesive, high-quality performances and fostering a positive, productive rehearsal environment.

What does a choir director do?

A choir director is responsible for selecting music, conducting rehearsals, and leading performances for a choir or vocal ensemble. They coordinate with singers, develop vocal techniques, and often require knowledge of music theory and conducting skills to ensure cohesive performances.

What do choir directors make?

Choir directors typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and the organization they work for. Salaries can vary based on whether they work in schools, churches, or community groups, and some may receive additional compensation for conducting multiple choirs or managing administrative tasks.

What is the difference between Choir Director vs Music Teacher?

AspectChoir DirectorMusic Teacher
CredentialsMusic degree, conducting experienceMusic degree, teaching certification
Work EnvironmentChoir rehearsals, performances, schools, churchesClassrooms, schools, educational settings
EmployerSchools, churches, community groupsSchools, educational institutions

While both roles involve music education, a Choir Director primarily focuses on leading and rehearsing choirs for performances, often in churches or community groups. A Music Teacher typically instructs students in music theory, instrument skills, and general music education within a school setting. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the 4 positions in choir?

In a choir, the four main vocal positions are soprano, alto, tenor, and bass. These roles represent different vocal ranges and are essential for balanced choral harmony. Choir directors often assign singers to these parts based on their vocal capabilities and training.

How can I become a choir director?

To become a choir director, typically a bachelor's degree in music or a related field is required, along with experience in conducting and vocal performance. Developing strong leadership, musical knowledge, and conducting skills through practice and possibly certification can enhance job prospects. Many positions also require knowledge of music theory and the ability to work with diverse groups of singers.

What are some common challenges Choir Directors face when working with diverse groups of singers?

Choir Directors often work with singers who have varying levels of musical experience, vocal abilities, and backgrounds, which can present challenges in creating a cohesive sound. Balancing the needs of beginners and experienced members, addressing different learning styles, and ensuring everyone feels included are key aspects of the role. Directors must also carefully select repertoire that suits the ensemble's strengths while providing opportunities for growth. Effective communication, patience, and adaptability are crucial in overcoming these challenges and fostering a positive, collaborative choir environment.
What job categories do people searching Choir Director jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Choir Director jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Choir Director jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Choir Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Choir Director job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,423 per year, or $33.9 per hour.
MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND DIRECTOR - 26/27SY

MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND DIRECTOR - 26/27SY

Albuquerque Public Schools

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 hours ago


Albuquerque Public Schools rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

272nd of 617 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Teaches by creating a flexible program and an environment favorable to learning and personal growth; by encouraging students to develop skills, attitudes and knowledge needed to obtain a good foundation for continuous growth and development; by providing students with experiences which integrate the affective, cognitive and psychomotor dimensions of learning; by establishing effective rapport with students and their families; and by creating an inclusive environment assisting students in developing positive feelings toward themselves and others. The opportunity for teacher growth is provided through professional development presented by performing arts peers, resource teachers and content-specific administrators who are committed to supporting educators. A budget for curriculum, supplies, equipment and other necessities is provided for each program.
NOTE: All music applicants must be willing to teach all categories as assignments can be mixed disciplines and grades: 6 - 12, band, choir, orchestra, guitar, piano, and/or mariachi.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Incumbent must achieve the following outcomes with or without reasonable accommodation:
  • Cooperates in the development and implementation of the district program of instruction.
  • Plans and implements a program of study that, as much as possible, meets the individual needs, interests and abilities of students and complies with State Department of Education Standards and the APS Board of Education goals and objectives.
  • Guides the learning process toward the achievement of curriculum goals. Establishes clear objectives for all lessons, assignments, units and projects in harmony with curriculum goals and communicates the objectives to students.
  • Employs instructional methods and materials that are most appropriate for meeting stated objectives.
  • Establishes and maintains standards of appropriate student behavior and discipline to achieve a functional learning atmosphere in the classroom and assists in its maintenance campus wide.
  • Evaluates the learning progress of students on a regular basis.
  • Prescribes effective learning programs and initiates referrals to appropriate personnel when concerns arise.
  • Assesses the accomplishments of students on a regular basis and provides progress reports as required.
  • Administers group standardized tests in accordance with the district testing program.
  • Establishes and maintain open lines of communication with students and parents concerning students' academic, social and behavioral progress.
  • Creates a classroom environment that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interests of students.
  • Meets and instructs assigned classes in the locations and at the times designated.
  • Selects and requests appropriate books and instructional materials and maintains required inventory records.
  • Provides directions and materials for substitute teachers. Plans for and supervises classroom aides, guests and volunteers.
  • Cooperates with staff and support personnel in assessing and helping students with health, attitude, learning and behavioral problems.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND EXPERIENCE:
The minimum expectations for this job are as follows:
  • Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Flexibility, organization, decision making and problem solving skills.
  • Interpersonal skills with diverse populations in-person and on the telephone.
  • Knowledge of APS community, computer system, financial procedures, and legal requirements.
  • Ability to meet deadlines, work on multiple projects, and coordinate the work of others.
  • Knowledge of district policies on immunization, medication, first aid, emergencies and child abuse/neglect.
  • Knowledge of all laws, regulations and guidelines affecting teachers and students.
  • Knowledge of effective classroom management techniques.
  • Ability to maintain positive relationships with students, parents, community members and staff.

REQUIREMENTS:
The minimum requirements for this job are as follows:
  • Bachelors degree.
  • Current New Mexico teaching certificate endorsed in the area to be taught.
    • 200 K-8 Elementary license with Performing Arts endorsement or
    • 300 7-12 Secondary license with Performing Arts endorsement or
    • 350 6-9 Middle level license with Performing Arts endorsement or
    • 500 K-12 Specialty license with Performing Arts endorsement

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Contact: REBECCAH RUTHERFORD at / REBECCAH.RUTHERFORD@aps.edu
APPLY TO:
APPLY TO: www.aps.edu/jobs, Certified Application In addition to providing supporting documents to meet the position, you must also submit an up to date cover letter and resume.
ADDITIONAL INFO:
SALARY: Schedule A
DAYS: 190
HOURS:
START DATE: 8/3/26
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