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Full Time Music Composition Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Department of Music at Austin Peay State University invites applications for a full-time, nine ... Bachelor of Music with concentrations in Performance, Music Education, Composition, and Music ...

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Full Time Music Composition information

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$30.5K

$57.7K

$121.5K

How much do full time music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time 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 does a full-time music composer do?

A full-time music composer creates original music for various projects, such as films, television, video games, commercials, and live performances. Their responsibilities include writing, arranging, and orchestrating music, collaborating with directors or producers, and sometimes overseeing recording sessions. Composers may work independently or as part of a larger team, and their work often requires creativity, technical knowledge of music theory, and proficiency with music production software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full-time music composer?

To thrive as a Full-Time Music Composer, you need a strong grasp of music theory, composition techniques, and proficiency with at least one instrument, often supported by a degree in music or equivalent experience. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Logic Pro or Ableton Live, as well as notation software and audio editing tools, is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and strong communication skills set successful composers apart, especially when collaborating with clients or teams. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality music that meets project requirements and resonates with audiences in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time music composers when working on multiple projects simultaneously?

Full-time music composers often juggle several projects at once, each with its own creative direction and deadlines. Managing time effectively while maintaining originality can be challenging, as composers must switch between genres and client expectations. Clear communication with collaborators and clients is essential to ensure that feedback is incorporated efficiently. Additionally, composers need to stay organized with their workflow and sound libraries to meet overlapping deadlines without compromising the quality of their work.

What is the difference between Full Time Music Composition vs Music Arranger?

AspectFull Time Music CompositionMusic Arranger
CredentialsMusic degree, composition certificationsMusic knowledge, arranging experience
Work EnvironmentStudios, offices, freelanceStudio, live performances, studio
Industry UsageFilm, TV, video games, advertisingPerforming groups, recordings, broadcasts
Primary FocusCreating original musicAdapting existing music for different ensembles or purposes

Full Time Music Composition involves creating original music pieces, often requiring formal training and working in various media like film or video games. Music Arrangers modify existing compositions to suit different ensembles or contexts. While both roles require musical expertise, composition emphasizes original creation, whereas arranging focuses on adaptation and reworking of existing music.

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What cities are hiring for Full Time Music Composition jobs?

Cities with the most Full Time Music Composition job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Music Composition jobs?

The most popular types of Music Composition jobs are:

What states have the most Full Time Music Composition jobs?

States with the most job openings for Full Time Music Composition jobs include:

Infographic showing various Full Time Music Composition job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,731 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

S. Eugene Bailey Director of the Carleton Orchestra

Carleton University

Northfield, MN โ€ข On-site

$87K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 hours ago


Key responsibilities

  • Direct the Carleton Orchestra as the primary responsibility of the position.

  • Perform duties related to departmental needs, which may include applied instruction, classes or lessons in orchestration, composition, and/or performance practice, and secondary ensemble activities.

  • Contribute to the department's activities based on departmental needs and personal interests and expertise.


Job description

The Department of Music at Carleton College invites applications for the S. Eugene Bailey Director of the Carleton Orchestra, a full time (1.0 FTE) position at the rank of Assistant Professor (tenure-track), beginning September 1, 2027. Candidates must have a doctoral degree in instrumental conducting by September 1, 2027; in exceptional cases ABD candidates will be considered.
We seek a dynamic teacher and performer with an understanding of and commitment to music performance in an undergraduate liberal arts setting. Candidates should possess excellent communication and organizational skills and a vision for the future of instrumental ensembles at Carleton. The majority of the position comprises the direction of the orchestra; other duties will be determined based on departmental needs and the successful candidate's interests and expertise. These may include applied instruction, classes or lessons in orchestration, composition, and/or performance practice, and/or secondary ensemble activities, such as a contemporary music ensemble or chamber music.
Each term at Carleton around 30% of the total student body enrolls in lessons, ensembles, and classes in music, the majority being skilled and dedicated non-majors. Carleton offers a major in music (B.A.), and minors in general music and music performance. For more information about our Music Department, including specific classes, ensembles, and performance activities, please visit our website: https://www.carleton.edu/music/
To apply, please visit the Carleton College website at careers.carleton.edu; review of candidates will begin on November 1st, 2026. Please include a letter of application, your C.V., contact information for three letters of reference (whom we will contact to solicit letters after an initial round of reviewing applications), a teaching statement that includes comments on working with a student body with different backgrounds and perspectives in a liberal arts setting, and a link to approximately 45 minutes of video of representative rehearsals and performances directing an orchestral ensemble.
Carleton is a highly selective liberal arts college with a curious and enthusiastic student body of approximately 2,000 undergraduates. We are committed to cultivating a welcoming, supportive, and diverse community, including meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all students, with 58% of students receiving need-based grants and scholarships. Of our domestic students, 32% identify as people of color; an additional 11% of students come from outside the United States. Located in the thriving two-college town of Northfield, Minnesota, Carleton College is forty-five miles from the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, within easy reach of a vibrant metropolitan area that is home to three million people and rich cultural resources. For additional information about the College and the area, please consult the Information for Faculty Candidates page (https://www.carleton.edu/faculty-candidates/).
Carleton College is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. We are committed to developing our faculty to better reflect the diversity of our student body and American society. Carleton College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, veteran status, actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, status with regard to public assistance, disability, or age in providing employment or access to its educational facilities and activities. Women, gender-diverse individuals, disabled individuals and members of groups underrepresented at Carleton are strongly encouraged to apply.
The expected starting salary range for this position is between $87,480-$93,290. Actual pay will be adjusted based on job-related factors permitted by law, such as experience and training; licensure and certifications; market factors; departmental budgets; and responsibility. Carleton also offers a robust suite of benefits including:
  • A generous 403(b) retirement plan with a 10% employer contribution and 2% employee contribution
  • Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees