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Entry Level Music Composition Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Music Composition information

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$30.5K

$57.7K

$121.5K

How much do entry level music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level music composition in the United States is $57,731.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $64,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Music Composition vs Entry Level Music Production?

AspectEntry Level Music CompositionEntry Level Music Production
CredentialsMusic degree or equivalent, basic music theoryMusic or audio engineering degree, software proficiency
Work EnvironmentComposing in studios, home setups, or educational settingsStudio, post-production, or live event settings
Industry UsageUsed by composers, film, and game industriesUsed by producers, recording studios, and media companies
Search IntentCompare entry-level roles in music creationCompare entry-level roles in music recording and editing

Entry Level Music Composition focuses on creating original music and melodies, often requiring music theory knowledge and composition skills. Entry Level Music Production involves recording, editing, and mixing audio, emphasizing technical skills and software proficiency. Both roles are essential in the music industry but serve different functions in the music creation process.

Is there a demand for entry level music composers?

Entry level music composers are in moderate demand, especially in media industries such as film, television, and video games. Success often depends on building a portfolio, developing skills with digital audio workstations, and networking within the industry.

What jobs can I get as an entry level music composition graduate?

Entry level music composition graduates can pursue roles such as assistant composers, music interns, or production assistants in film, television, or game industries. They often work with digital audio workstations (DAWs) and may need to demonstrate a portfolio of original compositions to secure entry-level positions.
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The most popular types of Music Composition jobs are:

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Entry Level Music Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Music Composition job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,731 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Composition

Galesburg, IL • On-site

Knox College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Knox Collegeexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description
The Department of Music at Knox College invites applications for a full-time, one-year appointment as visiting assistant professor of music beginning September 1, 2022. The successful candidate will demonstrate creativity and innovation in musical composition, excellence in undergraduate teaching and mentorship of student composers within a liberal arts environment, and dedication to service and teaching within a diverse community.
We encourage applications from individuals with expertise in both acoustic and digital music and with possible areas of concentration including (but not limited to) electronic music composition, sound studies, music production and engineering.
In addition to courses in composition and songwriting, teaching responsibilities may include core music theory and music history, aural skills, and advanced seminars in related to the candidate's areas of specialization. The teaching load is six courses for the year, two courses per each 10-week term.
Knox is a diverse college with over 35% of the student body identifying as American students of color and an additional 15% international students. Experience working with diverse populations of students and a commitment to teach successfully in a multicultural environment are expected.
Visiting faculty members at Knox are included in the professional and intellectual life of the College. The visiting faculty member will have a modest annual conference travel budget and access to research resources. Pay is commensurate with entry-level faculty positions at the College. Additional information can be found on our Human Resources webpage at https://www.knox.edu/offices/human-resources/employee-benefits-and-forms.
Qualifications
Qualifications: DMA or PhD in Music Composition expected at time of appointment; exceptional ABD candidates will be considered.
Application Instructions
Candidates should submit:
  1. A letter of application that addresses the candidate's preparation for inclusive teaching and discusses potential courses that would appeal to a diverse population of liberal-arts students.
  2. A curriculum vitae;
  3. Unofficial graduate transcript;
  4. Three confidential letters of recommendation.

Review of applications will begin on July 15, 2022 and continue until the position is filled.
Questions may be addressed to Professor Joan Huguet at musicsearch@knox.edu.

Apply