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Circus Musician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LAZ Parking Georgia, LLC

Event Staff

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

The Event staff position will require payment transactions via handheld. issuing tickets, etc. during events (sporting events, music concerts, political speakers, graduations, circus', group ...

LAZ Parking Georgia, LLC

Event Staff

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

The Event staff position will require payment transactions via handheld. issuing tickets, etc. during events (sporting events, music concerts, political speakers, graduations, circus, group ...

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Circus Musician information

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How much do circus musician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for circus musician in the United States is $21.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a circus musician?

Circus musicians are performers who play live music during circus shows to enhance the atmosphere, accompany acts, and set the mood for different performances. They may play a variety of instruments, such as drums, brass, woodwinds, or keyboards, and often work as part of a band or small orchestra. The music they perform is tailored to highlight the excitement, suspense, and drama of the circus acts, helping to create a seamless and engaging experience for the audience. Circus musicians must be adaptable, able to follow cues, and skilled at reading and reacting to the pace of live acts.

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

To thrive as a Circus Musician, you need strong musical talent, sight-reading skills, and proficiency with one or more instruments, often supported by formal music education or performance experience. Familiarity with sound equipment, live performance setups, and sometimes knowledge of genres like march or jazz are typically required. Flexibility, teamwork, and the ability to quickly respond to changing cues are essential soft skills in this dynamic environment. These skills and qualities ensure seamless coordination with performers, enhance the show's atmosphere, and enable adaptability during live circus acts.

What are some unique challenges circus musicians face compared to musicians in traditional concert settings?

Circus musicians often perform in dynamic, fast-paced environments where they must adapt quickly to unpredictable changes in acts and timing. Unlike traditional concert settings, the music is tightly synchronized with live performances, such as acrobatics or clown acts, requiring split-second adjustments and strong communication with performers and the ringmaster. Additionally, circus musicians may travel frequently and work in temporary venues, which can present logistical challenges but also fosters a close-knit, collaborative team atmosphere.

What is the difference between Circus Musician vs Clown?

AspectCircus MusicianClown
Required CredentialsMusical training, instrument proficiency, sometimes formal music educationPerformance skills, improvisation, physical comedy
Work EnvironmentBackstage, on stage, circus tents, touring showsOn stage, interacting with audience, often in clown costumes
Industry UsagePart of circus acts, supporting performances with musicMain act or comic relief, engaging audience through humor

While both Circus Musicians and Clowns perform in circus settings, Circus Musicians focus on providing musical entertainment and support, requiring musical skills and instruments. Clowns primarily entertain through comedy, physical antics, and audience interaction. Both roles are essential to circus shows but serve different entertainment functions.

Are circus musicians well paid?

Circus musicians' salaries vary depending on experience, location, and the size of the circus. Typically, they earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, with additional benefits for skilled performers who play in large or touring circuses. Compensation can also include per diem, housing, and performance bonuses.
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The top searched job categories for Circus Musician jobs are:

Circus Musician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Circus Musician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,855 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Florida State University and The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Position Music

Sarasota, FL • On-site

$90 - $150/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Florida State University and The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art Director of Development Sarasota, FL

Reports To: Senior Director of Development, The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Florida State University seeks a Director of Development, The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art (“The Ringling”). The Director of Development will, in conjunction with the Senior Director of Development, will help lead and manage all fundraising operations for The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, which is a part of FSU’s nationally recognized Arts collective, which also includes the Colleges of Music, Fine Arts, and Motion Picture Arts; Opening Nights; and the FSU “Flying High” Circus. This role is responsible for securing private support at the $100,000 and up level while cultivating relationships with individual, foundation, and corporate donors across many different constituencies.

Florida State University (FSU) is one of the nation’s premier public research universities, distinguished by its academic excellence, affordability, and commitment to innovation. Founded in 1851 and located in Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, FSU offers nearly 300-degree programs across undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional levels. With more than 45,000 students representing all 67 Florida counties and over 130 countries, the university provides a rich academic community.

In 2000, Florida State University assumed governance of The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, establishing a strategic partnership that has significantly elevated both institutions. Located in Sarasota, The Ringling serves as the official State Art Museum of Florida and stands among the largest and most comprehensive university-affiliated arts centers in the nation. Its 66-acre bayfront campus features the Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, the Ca’ d’Zan historic mansion, and the Historic Asolo Theater.

This dynamic relationship has positioned The Ringling not only as a world-class cultural and educational destination, but also as a vital extension of FSU’s academic and philanthropic mission. It exemplifies the university’s commitment to public engagement, arts education, and community enrichment. Today, The Ringling is a cornerstone of Florida State’s arts programming and is part of the “Arts Excellence” priority within the university’s $1B+ comprehensive fundraising campaign. Welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, The Ringling offers a collaborative and inspiring environment grounded in core values of innovation, relevance, accountability, curiosity, collaboration, and integrity. It is a place where art, circus, architecture, and performance converge to inspire, educate, and entertain.

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