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Jazz Band Director Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Jazz Band Director information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$23.5K

$59.6K

$92.3K

How much do jazz band director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for jazz band director in Riverside, CA is $59,585.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,700.00 and $63,600.00 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.

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.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Jazz Band Director jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Jazz Band Director jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Jazz Band Director jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Jazz Band Director jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Jazz Band Director jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Jazz Band Director job openings:

Band Teacher 2026-2027 School Year

Moreno Valley Unified School District

Moreno Valley, CA • On-site

$69K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Moreno Valley Unified School District rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 632 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

About the Employer
The Moreno Valley Unified School District's goal is "Excellence on Purpose." In order to achieve this goal, the Human Resources Division works toward building a foundation of employee excellence through a diverse and dedicated work force.
Job Summary
Preferred Experience:
• Instruct students in woodwind, brass, string, and percussion instruments
• Conduct daily rehearsals for band, orchestra, and small ensembles
• Plan and deliver engaging lessons aligned with California state & National Core Arts Music standards
• Prepare students for concerts, festivals, community events, and marching band performances
• Support jazz and/or pop ensemble instruction, including rhythm section development
• Mentor students in both individual and ensemble musicianship
• Assess student progress and provide constructive feedback
• Collaborate with school staff and parents to support student learning
• Organize and manage program logistics including music library, uniforms, and equipment inventory
• Participate in professional development and district music events
• Willingness to direct show-style marching bands using traditional high-step techniques, instrument swings, and high-energy visual movements.
Requirements / Qualifications
  • Copy of Transcript (Legible copies of transcripts with conferral date)
  • Credential Copy (Valid detailed California Single Subject Music Credential with expiration date, subject authorization and EL authorization included)
  • Letter of Introduction (Current and applicable to this position)
  • Letter(s) of Recommendation (Two (2) current professional letters of recommendation signed and dated within the past 12 months. No electronic signatures accepted)

Comments and Other Information
Nondiscrimination Statement
The Moreno Valley Unified School District (MVUSD) is committed to equal opportunity for all individuals in education and employment. We are dedicated to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment where every person, regardless of background or identity, feels safe, valued, and supported in our schools, programs, and workplaces.
The District strictly prohibits discrimination, harassment (including sexual and discriminatory harassment), intimidation, and bullying of any kind in any program, activity, or employment setting. This includes discrimination based on a person's actual or perceived race, color, ancestry, national origin, nationality, immigration status, ethnic group identification, ethnicity, age, religion, marital or parental status, pregnancy, childbirth, termination of pregnancy, lactation or related medical conditions and recovery, family status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sex, sex stereotypes, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. These protections extend to all aspects of the District's operations, including academic programs, extracurricular activities, employment, and access to designated youth groups such as the Scouting America or any other basis protected by law or regulation. (MVUSD BP 410, 1312.3, 5131.2, 5145.3, 5145.7, 5145.9).
These protections are guaranteed under applicable state and federal laws, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and the California Education Code. MVUSD does not tolerate retaliation against individuals who report or participate in the investigation of complaints involving discrimination, harassment, or related misconduct.
Moreno Valley Unified School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, including admission and employment, as required by Title IX and its regulations. Inquiries about Title IX may be referred to the District's Title IX Coordinator, the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights, or both. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination:
Title IX Coordinator
Dr. Khaleelah Lewis-Wilkins
Coordinator-Title IX Compliance and Resolution Officer
Moreno Valley Unified School District
25634 Alessandro Blvd.
Moreno Valley, CA 92553-4916
951-571-7500 Ext. 17322
klewis@mvusd.net
Section 504 Coordinator
Philip Peeples
Director of Student Services
Moreno Valley Unified School District
25634 Alessandro Blvd.
Moreno Valley, CA 92553-491
951-571-7500 Ext. 41709
ppeeples@mvusd.net
Title II/ADA Coordinator
Omar Marquez
Coordinator of Student Services
Moreno Valley Unified School District
25634 Alessandro Blvd.
Moreno Valley, CA 92553-4916
951-571-7500 Ext. 41703
omarquez1@mvusd.net
Students have the right to a free public education, regardless of immigration status or religious beliefs. More information about these rights is available from the California Attorney General, Know Your Rights. Learn more about Title IX, Student Rights Under Title IX. For more information on Title IX, visit https://www.mvusd.net/departments/human-resources/title-ix-rev. (Federal Program Monitoring and Civil Rights Review, 2025)

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