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Dance Instructor Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

... hard to find instructors who are experts in their instrument. We take care of all the ... When Music & Arts opened its doors in 1952, we offered printed music, music lessons, dance lessons ...

... hard to find instructors who are experts in their instrument. We take care of all the ... When Music & Arts opened its doors in 1952, we offered printed music, music lessons, dance lessons ...

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Dance Instructor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$8

$24

$43

How much do dance instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for dance instructor in Rochester, NY is $24.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Dance Instructor, you need a deep understanding of dance technique, choreography, and teaching methods, often supported by formal dance training or certification. Familiarity with audio equipment, video analysis tools, and music editing software is typically required. Strong communication, motivational skills, and patience help engage students and foster a positive learning environment. These skills are vital for delivering effective instruction, ensuring student progress, and maintaining class enthusiasm.

What is the difference between Dance Instructor vs Dance Coach?

AspectDance InstructorDance Coach
CredentialsTypically requires dance training, certifications, or teaching credentialsOften has extensive dance experience, coaching certifications, or specialized training
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, studios, schools, community centersPerformance settings, competitions, private coaching sessions
Employer & Industry UsageDance schools, studios, educational institutionsCompetitive teams, professional dance companies, private clients
Search & Comparison IntentLooking to teach dance to students of all agesSeeking specialized training or performance coaching

While both dance instructors and dance coaches work to improve dancers' skills, dance instructors focus on teaching dance techniques and choreography in educational settings. Dance coaches typically work with dancers preparing for performances or competitions, providing targeted training to enhance their performance skills. Understanding these differences helps individuals find the right role based on their goals and experience.

What are dance instructors?

Dance instructors are professionals who teach individuals or groups various styles of dance, such as ballet, hip-hop, jazz, ballroom, or contemporary. They demonstrate dance moves, develop lesson plans, and provide feedback to help students improve their technique and performance. Dance instructors may work in dance studios, schools, community centers, or offer private lessons. They often have experience as dancers themselves and may hold certifications or degrees in dance or education.

How do Dance Instructors typically structure their classes to accommodate students with varying skill levels?

Dance Instructors often organize classes with a warm-up, skill-building exercises, and choreography, allowing them to assess and support students at different abilities. They may offer modifications or alternative movements for beginners while challenging more advanced students with complex steps. Instructors also encourage peer support and create a positive environment where students feel comfortable progressing at their own pace. This approach helps everyone improve and feel included, regardless of experience.
What are popular job titles related to Dance Instructor jobs in Rochester, NY? For Dance Instructor jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dance Instructor jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Dance Instructor jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Dance Instructor jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Dance Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Dance Instructor job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 51% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $51,930 per year, or $25 per hour.
Music Teacher Store 7333

Music Teacher Store 7333

Guitar Center

Rochester, NY

$10 - $20/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Guitar Center rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 177 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

400th of 727 rated retailers


Job description

At Music & Arts, we provide the tools and support for you to focus on what matters most: teaching and inspiring students. With robust benefits, a commitment to innovation, and opportunities to grow your career, you'll find a rewarding and impactful role here. We are looking for educators who are not only skilled musicians but also dedicated to empowering learners.
We believe that private lessons are the building blocks to a lifelong relationship with music. Our strong commitment to music education is fundamental to our business, and we work hard to find instructors who are experts in their instrument. We take care of all the administrative work so you can do what you do best: inspire learning and creating the next generation of musicians!

What You'll Do:
As a Music Teacher, you will create an engaging, supportive, and safe learning environment where students thrive. You will:

  • Teach music lessons to students of varying ages and skill levels.
  • Build positive relationships with students and parents through regular communication, goal-setting, and progress updates.
  • Partner with store teams to schedule lessons and encourage student retention.
  • Share your musical expertise to inspire students and foster their growth.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience.
  • 2 years of music teaching experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Advanced degrees (Master's or Doctoral) in Music.
  • Professional teaching memberships or certifications.
  • 8+ years of teaching experience, especially with multiple instruments (banjo, baritone, bass clarinet, bass guitar, bassoon, cello, clarinet, flute, French horn, guitar, mandolin, oboe, percussion, piano, piccolo, saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba, ukulele, viola, violin, and voice).

About Music & Arts

Music & Arts embodies the world of creativity and music by encouraging our teammates to find their own individual sound. We strive to create lifelong musicians and make a difference in the world by enabling musicians and non-musicians alike to experience the almost indescribable happiness that comes from playing an instrument. We believe in putting our customers first, engaging with respect and integrity and fulfilling our mission with passion.
The first Music & Arts was located in a small house in Bethesda, MD and run by founder Benjamin O'Brien. When Music & Arts opened its doors in 1952, we offered printed music, music lessons, dance lessons, and art supplies. Ben decided shortly after opening his business that he wanted to focus on music to better serve his customers -- a decision that remains intact to this day.
Since the 1990's, Music & Arts has expanded nationwide through organic growth and a series of acquisitions and mergers with other music dealers. In 2005, Music & Arts joined forces with American Music to become the largest band and orchestra instrument retailer in the United States. Based in Frederick, MD, Music & Arts is now part of the Guitar Center enterprise and comprises 225+ retail stores, 200+ educational representatives, and 250+ affiliate locations.

Why Music & Arts? Here's just some of the rewards:
Pay Rate: $16.00/hr Non-Teaching Rate + $10-20/hr Teaching Rate depending on background and experience.

For our employees who are musicians we offer the unique opportunity of gig leave--take time off to share your music with the world and return to your job after your tour! Music & Arts offers robust benefits and perks, including 401K plus company match, employee discount program, and more.


The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any specific employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, and other factors. The pay range(s) listed are provided in compliance with state specific laws. Pay ranges may be different in other locations.


Additional Information:

Music & Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides fair and equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected status prohibited under Federal, State, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on valid job? related requirements.
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website, you may request a reasonable accommodation to express interest in a specific opening. You can request reasonable accommodation by sending an email torecruiting@guitarcenter.com


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About Guitar Center

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Guitar Center Company embodies the world of creativity and music by encouraging our teammates to find their own individual sound. Our mission is to develop and nurture lifelong musicians and make a difference in the world by enabling musicians and non-musicians alike to experience the joy that comes from creating music. We believe in putting our customers first, engaging with respect and integrity and fulfilling our mission with passion. The Guitar Center Company operates through several business divisions. Guitar Center is the world's largest retailer of guitars, amplifiers, drums, keyboards, recording, live sound, DJ, and lighting equipment, with more than 290 stores across the United States. 2014 marked the milestone 50th anniversary of the Guitar Center Company as the organization continues to help people make music from coast to coast.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Westlake Village, CA, US

Year founded

1964