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Choir Director Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

NY United Health Services

Physician Practice RN

Newark, NY · On-site

$33.63 - $50.45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... choir, or seasonal celebrations. Comprehensive Benefits for Life & Family - We offer medical ... Whether you provide direct patient care or support behind the scenes, you are part of a shared ...

NY United Health Services

Physician Practice RN

Newark, NY · On-site

$33.63 - $50.45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... choir, or seasonal celebrations. Comprehensive Benefits for Life & Family - We offer medical ... Whether you provide direct patient care or support behind the scenes, you are part of a shared ...

All JobsChoir JobsChoir Director JobsChoir Director Jobs in Rochester, NY

Choir Director information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$29.5K

$77.5K

$413.5K

How much do choir director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for choir director in Rochester, NY is $77,496.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $68,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a choir director?

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 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 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.

How do you become a choir director?

To become a choir director, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in music, music education, or a related field, along with experience in conducting and vocal performance. Developing strong leadership, communication skills, and knowledge of vocal techniques are essential, and some positions may require certification or advanced degrees. Gaining experience through conducting school, community, or church choirs can also be valuable.

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 does a choir director do?

A choir director is responsible for leading and rehearsing a choir, selecting music, and conducting performances. They often coordinate with singers, musicians, and event organizers, and may require knowledge of vocal techniques and music theory. The role typically involves rehearsing regularly and ensuring the choir performs cohesively and artistically.

What are popular job titles related to Choir Director jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Choir Director jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Choir Director jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Choir Director jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Choir Director jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Choir Director job openings:

Choir Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Choir Director job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,496 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

Adjunct Professor - Gospel Choir Director

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

University Of Rochester rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
Adjunct Instructor
Non Tenure-Track Rank
The University of Rochester's Arthur Satz Department of Music seeks to hire an outstanding candidate to direct our Gospel Choir (MUSC 158) for the 2026-2027 academic year. The choir meets once per week and is expected to have at least two public performances per semester. This is a one credit course and the director will be required to help recruit students, lead the ensembles, choose repertoire, organize concerts, lead the weekly rehearsals, and grade the students at the end of each semester. As necessary, the chair of the department in consultation with the dean can change the distribution of duties. Candidates should have previous experience leading gospel choirs. Classes begin on August 31st, 2026 and end on April 30th, 2027.
The University of Rochester is a distinguished research university. Information about the music department can be found here: https://www.sas.rochester.edu/mur/
Applicants should submit a CV or resume. Questions concerning this position can be addressed to Matt BaileyShea, chair the Arthur Satz Department of Music Review of applications will begin on June 10th, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. The University of Rochester is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a strong commitment to diversity, and actively encourages applications from candidates from groups underrepresented in higher education.
Salary: $9,000 for the full academic year.
The referenced pay range represents the full base range of pay for this job. Individual salaries will be determined within the job's salary range and established based on market data, experience and expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations.
EOE / Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled

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