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Jazz Band Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Previous experience working with students in a jazz setting Responsibilities: 1) Attends jazz rehearsals and performances from October until March. 2) Collaborates with other directors, and helps ...

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Previous experience working with students in a jazz setting Responsibilities: 1) Attends jazz rehearsals and performances from October until March. 2) Collaborates with other directors, and helps ...

Previous experience working with students in a jazz setting Responsibilities: 1) Attends jazz rehearsals and performances from October until March. 2) Collaborates with other directors, and helps ...

New

Previous experience working with students in a jazz setting Responsibilities: 1) Attends jazz rehearsals and performances from October until March. 2) Collaborates with other directors, and helps ...

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Jazz Band Director information

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$22.5K

$57.1K

$88.5K

How much do jazz band director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for jazz band director in the United States is $57,114.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a jazz band director do?

A Jazz Band Director is responsible for leading and managing a jazz band, which includes selecting music pieces, conducting rehearsals, and directing live performances. They help students or musicians develop their skills in jazz techniques, improvisation, and ensemble playing. Jazz Band Directors also often arrange music, coordinate performances, and foster an appreciation for jazz history and styles among their band members. Their goal is to create a cohesive, expressive group that can perform a variety of jazz repertoire.

How does a jazz band director collaborate with other music faculty and staff?

A Jazz Band Director often works closely with other music educators, such as band, orchestra, and choir directors, to coordinate performances, share rehearsal spaces, and ensure a cohesive music program. Collaboration may also include working with guest artists, accompanists, or administrative staff to organize events and manage logistics. Open communication and teamwork are essential, as directors often participate in joint concerts, festivals, and curriculum planning, enriching students' musical experiences and providing opportunities for cross-ensemble learning.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a jazz band director?

To thrive as a Jazz Band Director, you need a strong background in music theory, jazz performance, ensemble conducting, and typically a degree in music education or performance. Familiarity with music notation software, audio recording equipment, and arranging tools is commonly required. Excellent communication, leadership, and motivational skills help inspire students and foster a collaborative environment. These skills are vital for effectively teaching complex jazz concepts, directing rehearsals, and cultivating musicianship within the band.

What is the difference between Jazz Band Director vs Music Teacher?

AspectJazz Band DirectorMusic Teacher
CredentialsMusic degree, jazz performance experience, teaching certificationMusic degree, teaching certification, subject-specific credentials
Work EnvironmentSchool band rooms, rehearsal spaces, performance venuesClassrooms, schools, private studios
Employer & IndustrySchools, community programs, music organizationsSchools, private institutions, community centers
Primary FocusLeading jazz ensembles, improvisation, performance skillsTeaching general music education, curriculum development

While both roles involve music education, a Jazz Band Director specializes in leading jazz ensembles and improvisation, often requiring jazz-specific performance experience. A Music Teacher has a broader focus on general music instruction across various genres. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments but differ in their primary responsibilities and specialized skills.

More about Jazz Band Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Jazz Band Director jobs? Cities with the most Jazz Band Director job openings:
What states have the most Jazz Band Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Jazz Band Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Jazz Band Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Jazz Band Director jobs are:
Infographic showing various Jazz Band Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,114 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Senior Jazz Band Director

Cooperstown Central School District

Cooperstown, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Cooperstown Central School (CCS) offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities that foster student development beyond the classroom. From a comprehensive athletic program competing in Section III's Center State Conference to clubs and organizations that emphasize leadership, creativity, and community involvement, CCS encourages students to grow through teamwork, responsibility, and personal achievement.
 

Job Title: Senior Jazz Band Director
Reports to: Director of Physical Education, Athletics & Extracurricular Activities- Josh Wagner 
Grade Levels: 9-12
Meeting Schedule: Weekly full ensemble rehearsals 


 

Position Summary:
The Senior Jazz Band Director leads Cooperstown High School's Jazz Rock Ensemble, an advanced extracurricular music group dedicated to exploring big band and jazz styles from the 1920s to the present. The director is responsible for musical instruction, ensemble coordination, and public performances, fostering both technical skill and artistic expression in student musicians.

 

Key Responsibilities:

 
  • Conduct weekly full ensemble rehearsals and sectional practices

  • Select and arrange music that reflects the diversity of jazz and big band repertoire

  • Develop students' skills in ensemble performance, music theory, and jazz improvisation

  • Educate students on the historical and cultural significance of jazz and big band music

  • Plan and coordinate performances throughout the school year, both in school and in the local community

  • Promote musical excellence and teamwork within the ensemble

  • Maintain communication with students, parents, and the school community regarding schedules, expectations, and performances

 

Program Mission:
To provide students with a comprehensive musical experience in big band jazz, incorporating performance, improvisation, and historical study, while fostering musical growth and a love of ensemble playing.

 

Qualifications:

 
  • Strong background in music education and jazz performance

  • Proficiency in conducting and directing student musicians

  • Knowledge of big band repertoire, improvisation techniques, and performance practices

  • Effective organizational and communication skills

  • Passion for working with high school musicians in a collaborative, high-expectation environment