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Creative Music Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Music Teacher

Glenview, IL · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Foster a love for music and encourage creative expression. * Plan and adapt lessons to suit different age groups and developmental levels. * Collaborate with teachers and staff to incorporate music ...

Music Teacher

Glenview, IL · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Foster a love for music and encourage creative expression. * Plan and adapt lessons to suit different age groups and developmental levels. * Collaborate with teachers and staff to incorporate music ...

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Creative Music information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$18

$41

How much do creative music jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for creative music in Chicago, IL is $18.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in creative music roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in creative music roles often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines for delivering original compositions, balancing artistic vision with client or project requirements, and staying current with evolving music technology. Collaborating with diverse teams—like producers, sound engineers, and marketing professionals—requires effective communication and adaptability. Managing these challenges involves strong organizational skills, openness to feedback, and a commitment to continuous learning to keep creative skills sharp and relevant.

What is the difference between Creative Music vs Music Producer?

AspectCreative MusicMusic Producer
CredentialsMusic theory, composition, audio editing skillsMusic theory, audio engineering, project management
Work EnvironmentStudios, recording sessions, live performancesRecording studios, post-production, studio management
Industry UsageComposing, arranging, sound designOverseeing recording projects, mixing, mastering

Creative Music focuses on composing and creating original music, emphasizing artistic expression and sound design. Music Producers manage the entire production process, coordinating recording sessions and ensuring the final product meets industry standards. While both roles require musical knowledge, Creative Music is more about creation, whereas Music Production involves overseeing the technical and logistical aspects of music creation.

What is a creative music professional?

Creative Music professionals are individuals who work in various roles related to composing, producing, arranging, and performing original music. They often blend different genres, experiment with sounds, and use innovative techniques to express artistic ideas through music. These professionals may work as composers, songwriters, producers, or performers in industries like film, advertising, gaming, or live entertainment. Their work involves both technical skills and artistic vision to create unique musical experiences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a creative music professional?

To thrive as a Creative Music Professional, you need strong musical theory knowledge, composition skills, and proficiency in at least one instrument or digital audio workstation (DAW), often supported by a degree in music or related experience. Familiarity with industry-standard software like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, or Pro Tools, and sometimes certifications in music production, is highly valued. Creativity, collaboration, and adaptability are essential soft skills for working with diverse artists and adapting to changing project needs. These skills ensure the ability to produce high-quality, innovative music that meets industry standards and client expectations.
What are popular job titles related to Creative Music jobs in Chicago, IL? For Creative Music jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Creative Music jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Creative Music jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Creative Music job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,348 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Music Ministry Instructor-Let the Music Begin

The Salvation Army USA Central Territory

Chicago, IL • On-site

$18.11 - $21.74/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

570th of 771 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

THE SALVATION ARMY

NORTH & CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION

POSITION DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Music Ministry Instructor (Let the Music Begin)

LOCATION/DEPT: Program Department/Corps

PEOPLE MANAGER: No

REPORTS TO: Director of Music & Creative Arts (DMCA)/Corps Officers

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt (FPT)

Pay Grade: 203

Pay Range: $18.11 - $21.74

WHO WE ARE

At The Salvation Army, we are dedicated to "Doing the Most Good". We are made up of thousands of officers, soldiers, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners working together to holistically meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. We do this through programs designed to combat homelessness and hunger, provide safe spaces for kids after school and on the weekends, achieve and maintain sobriety, and give hope to the hopeless. The Salvation Army North and Central Illinois Division provides these services to people in need.

DEPARTMENT MISSION

The Music & Creative Arts Department exists to advocate, inspire, equip, and disciple worshippers and creative minded people through diverse artistic expressions. It also exists to develop music and arts leaders. Our vision is to empower the North & Central Illinois Division, be a consistent, relevant resource, and be on the forefront of missional engagement through the music and arts.

JOB SUMMARY

Work with children and adults in the Corps and community to plan and implement a music and creative arts programs which may include teaching theory, music performance (brass, vocal, guitar, piano, ukulele, etc.) and creative arts performance (dance, drama, theatre, visual arts) based on the needs of the Corps and the placement of the instructor. The Let The Music Begin (LTMB) program's goal is the assist, resource, equip and enhance the Corps' Sunday worship and music and arts programs. The mission and vision of the music and creative arts to be implemented and reinforced through education.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. To educate and train the future leaders in Music and Creative Arts ministry in The Salvation Army
  2. To teach and spread the Gospel to young people of NCI through music and creative arts.
  3. Begin each class period with a prayer and a scripture verse.
  4. Work within the schools and/or Corps to lead or assist in music or other arts programs as assigned. Implement the lesson plans and curriculum which will be provided by the corps music director, lead music teacher, or LTMB Manager and/or DMCA.
  5. With the corps leadership, help plan the LTMB recitals at the corps and help prep the corps music program to participate in the LTMB concert at the end of each school year.
  6. Encourage participants to work towards a goal and sense of accomplishment in developing musical abilities. Encourage participants to discover and develop skills and talents that will heighten their self-esteem, increase school/program pride, and involve them in positive activities.
  7. Assist with ensuring the music performances and activities heighten the awareness of the purpose of the Corps in the community.
  8. Encourage participants to attend summer camps which will lead them to develop further talents and make spiritual decisions.
  9. Must be willing to gain knowledge of the Salvation Army music and programs.
  10. Maintain positive work atmosphere through appropriate conflict management, courteous demeanor, and professional and appropriate communication practices.
  11. Maintain compliance in The Salvation Army's "Safe from Harm" Certification.
  12. All other duties as assigned.

RELATIONSHIPS

This position reports to the LTMB Manager and/or DMCA. In contacts related to this position's duties, this individual acts as a representative of The Salvation Army and its mission.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES

This individual will be evaluated on how effectively the outcomes of this position are achieved, timeliness and accuracy of accomplishing assigned goals will be reviewed and an evaluation of how effectively service is provided.

EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE

  • A minimum of 2 years music experience working with children/adults.
  • Minimum Bachelor's Degree is preferred, or working towards a degree in music, or extensive experience teaching music.
  • Proficiency in music theory and in a primary instrument
  • Performance experience is preferred.
  • Valid Driver's license/MVR clearance.

COMPENTENCIES

  • A strong commitment to support and promote the mission of The Salvation Army.
  • A personal knowledge of music, including performance, education and theory.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong leadership and organizational skills.
  • Must be a team player, self starter, and follow through with assignments until completion.
  • A positive attitude and the ability to be flexible in light of changing job situations/priorities.
  • Live out a personal faith in Jesus Chris, demonstrate love for God, and show compassion for others.
  • Proven leadership ability.
  • Heart for evangelism and knowledge of the Bible.
  • Emotional and Spiritual Maturity.

POSITION LIMITATIONS

  • This individual will only commit Army resources that have been allocated or approved.
  • All Salvation Army owned equipment that is being used by the individual will be returned at the end of employment before the final check is issued.
  • This individual will keep the Director of Music & Creative Arts, Let The Music Begin Manager and Corps Officer informed on all critical issues relating to their area of responsibility.
  • This individual will adhere to all policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • This position is required to do light physical work.
  • In order to successfully perform the essential functions of this position, the employee is regularly required to use instruments and equipment needed in a music program.
  • Frequent use of standard office equipment and a PC also required.
  • The work environment for this position includes a program environment with a moderate to high noise level.
  • Maintain positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner that fosters and maintains positive relationships with co-workers and supervisors. This would include but not be limited to such actions: resolution of conflicts in a positive manner; courteous treatment of staff, clients and visitors; respect of others' property and person, professional and appropriate communication to and about co-workers, supervisors and subordinates. Support the Mission of The Salvation Army by treating every donor, contact and colleague with respect and dignity, and without discrimination of any kind.

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US