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Independent Contractor Musician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IN ยท On-site

$57.15/hr

Independent Contractor Pay: $57.15 Location: In-Home / Community-Based in Shelby County, IN ... Music Therapists at Achieve focus on helping individuals build skills through music-based ...

IN ยท On-site

$57.15/hr

Independent Contractor Pay: $57.15 Location: In-Home / Community-Based in Benton County, IN (Fowler ... Music Therapists at Achieve focus on helping individuals build skills through music-based ...

IN ยท On-site

$57.15/hr

Independent Contractor Pay: $57.15 Location: In-Home / Community-Based in Porter County, IN ... Music Therapists at Achieve focus on helping individuals build skills through music-based ...

IN ยท On-site

$57.15/hr

Independent Contractor Pay: $57.15 Location: In-Home / Community-Based in Hendrick County, IN ... Music Therapists at Achieve focus on helping individuals build skills through music-based ...

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Independent Contractor Musician information

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How much do independent contractor musician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor musician in the United States is $21.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor musician?

Independent Contractor Musicians are professional performers who are hired on a freelance basis to play music for events, recordings, or venues rather than being employed by a single organization. They manage their own schedules, negotiate fees, and are responsible for their own taxes and business expenses. This role offers flexibility and variety, as independent musicians often work on diverse projects and collaborate with different clients or groups. However, it also requires strong self-management, networking skills, and the ability to handle the business aspects of a music career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor musician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Musician, you need strong musical proficiency, performance experience, and often formal training in your instrument or voice. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), music notation software, and sound equipment is commonly required, along with an understanding of music copyright and basic business practices. Excellent communication, time management, and networking skills help musicians secure gigs, collaborate effectively, and build a client base. These abilities are crucial for consistently delivering high-quality performances, sustaining income, and navigating the competitive music industry.

How to work as an independent contractor musician?

To work as an independent contractor musician, you should establish your business, build a portfolio of performances, and market your services through social media, websites, or networking. You will need to manage your own schedule, handle contracts, and ensure you have appropriate insurance and licenses if required. Developing skills in self-promotion, financial management, and understanding industry standards is essential for success in this role.

How do independent contractor musicians typically find consistent work and maintain professional relationships in the industry?

Independent Contractor Musicians often secure gigs through networking, building relationships with venues, event planners, and other musicians. They may also join online platforms, leverage social media, or work with agencies to find opportunities. Maintaining professionalism, reliability, and strong communication skills are key to earning repeat bookings and referrals. Proactively managing schedules, contracts, and follow-ups helps ensure a steady workflow and fosters long-term collaborations.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Musician vs Freelance Musician?

AspectIndependent Contractor MusicianFreelance Musician
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials required, but professional experience is valuedSame as Independent Contractor Musician, often relies on portfolio
Work EnvironmentPerforms at various venues, studios, or private events; self-managedSimilar, often self-directed, working on multiple projects
Employer/Industry UsageHired directly by clients or agencies for specific gigsHired by clients for specific projects or performances
Search & Comparison IntentYes, often searched for gig work, contracts, or project-based rolesYes, similar search intent for freelance gigs and projects

Both roles involve self-employment, performing at various venues or events, and managing their own schedules. The main difference lies in terminology and slight nuances in contract types, but they are often used interchangeably in the industry.

What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Musician jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Musician job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Musician jobs? The most popular types of Musician jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Musician jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Musician jobs include:
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Musician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,855 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Music Therapist (Full Time, Part Time, Independent Contractor)

Easterseals of Southeastern Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA โ€ข On-site

Full-time, Part-time, Contractor

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Easterseals of Southeastern Pennsylvania is a leading nonprofit provider of disability services. We primarily serve children from birth to 8 years with a variety of disabilities including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, spina bifida and physical and developmental delays. Our services include Approved Private School, special classrooms, summer programs, assistive technology, early intervention programs and various outpatient speech, physical and occupational therapy programs.  Our team combines expertise and passion to provide exceptional services to meet the needs of every client we serve. Join our community of like-minded individuals, to make a lasting impact, and be part of a rewarding career that fosters diversity, compassion, and independence. Be part of our mission to provide exceptional services to ensure that all people with disabilities and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work, and play and their communities.

Please complete our job application by clicking the link below: 

 https://secure.beyondpay.com/ta/ESSP.careers?ShowJob=855769281 

If you require an accommodation with any part of the recruiting process, please contact Recruiting@easterseals-sepa.org

Job Description

The Music Therapist is responsible for implementing music therapy services in group-based classroom settings within Easterseals of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s Preschool Approved Private School (APS) program. This role supports young children with developmental delays and disabilities by utilizing music-based interventions to promote engagement, communication, social interaction, and sensory regulation within the natural classroom environment.

Music therapy services are delivered as part of a collaborative, team-based model, with a strong emphasis on co-treatment and integration with other related services (e.g., Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Behavioral Supports). The Music Therapist supports classroom-wide objectives and shared student outcomes in partnership with the interdisciplinary team.

The Music Therapist will work closely with teachers and therapists to embed music strategies into daily routines, transitions, and structured activities, helping to enhance participation and support positive behavioral and communication outcomes for all students.

In addition to classroom-based services, the Music Therapist will assist with the planning and implementation of family engagement and school-wide events, including family activities, move-up ceremonies, and holiday celebrations, incorporating music to foster community and inclusion.

This position supports programming across multiple Easterseals locations including:

  • Philadelphia: 3111 W. Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia, PA

  • Delaware County: 468 N. Middletown Road, Media, PA

  • Montgomery County: 1161 Forty Foot Road, Kulpsville, PA

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong collaboration skills, flexibility in a classroom-based service model, and a commitment to supporting children and families through a team-oriented approach.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Music Therapy.

Music Therapist Board Certification preferred.


Additional Information
  • Please review the background check requirements information located on the ‘Careers’ page of our website: https://www.easterseals.com/sepa/who-we-are/careers-at-easter-seals/
  • Easterseals is an equal opportunity provider and an equal opportunity employer.