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Drummer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Drummer information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$12.3K

$16.3K

How much do drummer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for drummer in California is $12,336.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12,300.00 and $12,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a drummer a career?

Being a drummer can be a professional career for those who perform with bands, in studios, or as session musicians. It often requires developing technical skills, building a network, and may involve freelance work or employment with music groups. Success depends on talent, experience, and industry opportunities.

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

To thrive as a Drummer, you need strong rhythm, timing, musicality, and technical proficiency on various percussion instruments, often supported by formal music education or extensive practice. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), metronomes, and drum notation software is commonly required in studio and live settings. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and stage presence help drummers collaborate effectively and engage audiences. These skills are crucial for creating cohesive performances, supporting other musicians, and succeeding in diverse musical environments.

What are some common challenges drummers face when integrating with a new band or ensemble?

When joining a new band or ensemble, drummers often need to adapt quickly to different playing styles, tempo preferences, and communication dynamics within the group. Establishing strong musical chemistry with other musicians, especially the bassist, is crucial for maintaining a solid rhythm section. Additionally, drummers must be flexible and open to feedback, as each group may have unique expectations regarding volume, groove, and song arrangements. Overcoming these challenges typically leads to stronger collaboration and more cohesive performances.

What is the difference between Drummer vs Bass Guitarist?

AspectDrummerBass Guitarist
Required CredentialsMusical training, percussion skillsMusical training, bass guitar proficiency
Work EnvironmentStage performances, recording studios, rehearsalsStage performances, recording studios, rehearsals
Industry UsageBand, orchestra, ensemble settingsBand, ensemble, studio recordings
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a drummer and a bass guitarist lies in their instrument and role within a band. Drummers focus on rhythm and percussion, providing the beat and tempo, while bass guitarists create the harmonic foundation and connect rhythm with melody. Both roles are essential in band settings, often working closely together to establish the song's groove and structure.

What does a drummer do?

A drummer is a musician that typically performs as part of a band. The drum provides a beat for the other band members to follow and is an essential piece to many genres of music. As a drummer, your duties include attending practices and rehearsals, learning songs, individual training, and playing for a performance or creating a record. There are various skill levels, and you can find positions as an amateur drummer or a professional drummer. A drummer can work with one specific group, play with multiple bands, or help fill in for a gig.

Is there a demand for drummers?

The demand for drummers varies depending on the music industry, location, and type of employment, such as live performances, studio work, or teaching. Skilled drummers with versatility and experience are generally sought after in entertainment and education sectors, but opportunities can fluctuate with industry trends and economic conditions.

What does a drummer do?

A drummer is a musician responsible for keeping time and providing rhythm in a band or musical ensemble. They play drums and percussion instruments, creating beats that form the backbone of a song. Drummers often collaborate closely with other musicians to enhance the overall sound and energy of performances. Their role can also include improvisation, technical skill, and reading sheet music, depending on the genre and setting.

How much money do drummers make?

Drummers' earnings vary based on experience, location, and whether they work as freelancers or for a band. On average, professional drummers can earn from $30,000 to over $100,000 annually, with top-tier session or touring drummers earning significantly more. Many drummers supplement income through teaching, studio work, or side gigs.
More about Drummer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Drummer jobs in California? The most popular types of Drummer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Drummer jobs in California? For Drummer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drummer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drummer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Drummer jobs in CA? For Drummer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Drummer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drummer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $12,336 per year, or $5.9 per hour.

Fright Fest Show Performer

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Valencia, CA • On-site

$339.82/day

Temporary

Re-posted 6 days ago

Six Flags rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 527 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 58 rated theme parks

Job description

Overview
Are you dying for a great job? Join our team and enjoy the scariest job this side of the grave as Fright Fest resurrects for it's 33rd year at Six Flags Magic Mountain! Show us your coldest stare or wicked talent, and we'll bring you to the underworld as apart of our talented ensemble. You'll be able to enjoy an endless supply of fresh brains, plus get other amazing perks that are to die for! Here are some of the roles we have open:
(Must be 18 or Older)
Responsibilities
Show Host: $20.00/hr
Job Description: This is a short-term position for a specific special event and period. Duties will include performing as a show host/hostess, emcee, singer, dancer, meeting and greeting our park guests with great enthusiasm and high animation as directed during rehearsals. Must be passionate about performing on stage or on the street, energetic, and must love what you are doing! Must be able to perform specific choreographed movements if their specific position so requires. Must be able to maintain organization of props and costumes, maintain clean dressing room and performance areas, and transport costumes to/from the performance location and wardrobe.
Fright Fest Entertainment Dancer: $20.00/hr
Job Description: This is a short-term position for a specific special event and period. Duties will include performing free style
and choreographed dance. Must be physically fit and have dance experience and have a passion for dance and presence on
stage. Must work well with others and be able to work in crowds, heat and cold for two-hour intervals during rehearsals and 45-minute performance nights. Must also have high energy, enthusiasm and be able to interact/dance with guests, maintain clean dressing rooms, and transport costumes to/from the performance location and wardrobe.
Vocalist/Sideman
(Audition Required)
$227.31/day
Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years of age.
Job Description: Casting Vocalists for a song and dance show. Duties will include singing live or acoustic, meeting, greeting, speaking to crowds, and entertaining our park guests with great enthusiasm and high animation. Must be fully proficient. Must be able to stand or sit and perform a maximum of (4) 45-minute intervals. Positions may require costumes and heavy make-up, based on the show/event that Vocalist Sideman is casted for. Must be able to complete sound check once daily (when appropriate), clean up personal trash from break room and be on time for performances. Interested applicants must be able to work in crowds, heat, and cold for (4) forty-five-minute sets. Paid rehearsal at rehearsal rate of $27.52/hour and rehearsals are held at Magic Mountain or designated studio off property. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Will be required to join the American Federation of Musicians, if not a member already.
Vocalist Leader
(Audition Required)
Pay Rate: $339.82/day
Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years of age.
Job Description: Casting a Vocalist Leader for a song and dance show . Duties will include singing live or acoustic, meeting, greeting, speaking to crowds, and entertaining our park guests with great enthusiasm and high animation. The Vocalist Leader is responsible for guiding rehearsals, giving notes and maintaining show quality throughout the show run. Must be able to stand or sit and perform a maximum of (4) 45-minute intervals. Positions may require costumes and heavy make up, based on the show/event Vocalist Leader is casted for. Must be able to complete sound check once daily (when appropriate), clean up personal trash from break room and maintain on-time performances. Paid rehearsal at rehearsal rate of $38.30/hour and rehearsals are held at Magic Mountain or designated studio off property. Interested applicants must be able to work in crowds, heat, and cold for (4) 45 minutes shows. Will be required to join the American Federation of Musicians, if not a member already.
Qualifications
Physical Requirements:
• Constantly standing, talking, climbing walking, reaching, using finger movement, grasping, feeling, speaking clearly,
hearing conversation, using hearing acuity, seeing near far, stooping, bending, kneeling.
• Working in extreme heat, sun, cold, wetness, humidity and temperature change.
• Must be able to carry and wear 5 to 20 pounds of costume weight
• All lifts over 51 lbs. require help from a coworker or mechanical device.
• Overtime of adults may be required from time to time to accommodate the business need.

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