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Jazz Guitar Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Uofl

Core duties will include teaching applied jazz guitar, jazz guitar ensemble, and performing with the faculty jazz ensemble. On occasion there may also be opportunities to teach specific repertoire or ...

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty, Performance

Chicago, IL · On-site

$4.4K - $6.6K/wk

... guitar, and jazz percussion, as well as courses in chamber music, jazz combos; pedagogy for voice, strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, and piano; orchestral repertoire for strings, woodwinds ...

Irvine School of Music

Guitar Instructor

Irvine, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Wellness resources Join Irvine's Fastest-Growing Music School as a Part-Time Guitar Teacher! Are ... Ability to teach Jazz and Pop styles alongside Classical * Master's degree in your teaching area

Harper College

CE Instructor - Guitar

Palatine, IL · On-site

Instructors of electric, acoustic, or classical guitar are welcome to apply. This position starts ... jazz, rock, blues, bluegrass, etc., are also encouraged to apply and will be considered. Minimum ...

Harper College

CE Instructor - Guitar

Palatine, IL

... jazz, rock, blues, bluegrass, etc., are also encouraged to apply and will be considered. Minimum ... Instructors of electric, acoustic, or classical guitar are welcome to apply. This position starts ...

Harper College

CE Instructor - Guitar

Palatine, IL · On-site

... jazz, rock, blues, bluegrass, etc., are also encouraged to apply and will be considered. Minimum ... Instructors of electric, acoustic, or classical guitar are welcome to apply. This position starts ...

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Jazz Guitar information

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How much do jazz guitar jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for jazz guitar in the United States is $27.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Jazz Guitarist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Jazz Guitarist, you need a solid understanding of music theory, improvisation, and advanced guitar techniques, often supported by formal music education or extensive performance experience. Familiarity with audio equipment, notation software, and digital recording tools is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and effective collaboration are essential soft skills for excelling in diverse musical ensembles and live performances. These skills are crucial for delivering high-quality, expressive performances and for successfully navigating the dynamic demands of the jazz music industry.

What is the highest paid job in music?

In the music industry, top-paid roles include music executives, such as record label presidents and CEOs, who oversee business operations and can earn substantial salaries and bonuses. Highly successful performers, especially those with extensive touring, album sales, and brand endorsements, also achieve high earnings. These roles often require strong industry connections, business acumen, and a track record of success.

What jobs can you get as a guitarist?

A guitarist can pursue various jobs such as performing as a solo artist, playing in bands or ensembles, teaching guitar lessons, working as a session musician, or joining touring acts. These roles often require strong technical skills, musical knowledge, and the ability to adapt to different styles and environments.

What are some common challenges jazz guitarists face when collaborating with other musicians in an ensemble setting?

Jazz guitarists often encounter challenges related to dynamic balance and communication within an ensemble. Because guitar can be both a harmonic and melodic instrument, it's important to listen closely and adjust playing levels to avoid overpowering or clashing with other instruments, particularly piano or horns. Additionally, effective collaboration requires strong knowledge of jazz harmony, the ability to comp tastefully behind soloists, and clear nonverbal cues during improvisational sections. Developing these skills can enhance both your versatility and reputation as a reliable ensemble member.

How to get gigs as a jazz band?

Jazz guitarists can secure gigs by building a strong network within local music communities, performing regularly to gain exposure, and creating a professional demo or portfolio. Joining booking agencies or online platforms dedicated to live music can also help connect musicians with event organizers and venues.

How much do jazz guitarists make?

Jazz guitarists' earnings vary widely based on experience, location, and employment type. Salaries can range from around $30,000 for part-time or early-career musicians to over $100,000 annually for established professionals performing regularly or recording. Many jazz guitarists supplement income through teaching, studio work, or touring.

What is the difference between Jazz Guitar vs Acoustic Guitar?

AspectJazz GuitarAcoustic Guitar
Required CredentialsTypically self-taught or formal music education, no specific certificationSimilar; often self-taught or formal training
Work EnvironmentJazz clubs, recording studios, live performancesConcert halls, studios, casual settings
Industry UsageMusic industry, entertainment, educationMusic industry, folk, pop, classical genres
Common Search/ComparisonJazz Guitar vs Acoustic Guitar

Jazz Guitar and Acoustic Guitar share similarities in skills and training but differ mainly in style, setting, and genre focus. Jazz Guitar emphasizes improvisation and complex chords, often performed in jazz venues, while Acoustic Guitar is versatile across many genres and settings. Understanding these differences helps musicians choose the right path for their career or hobby.

What is a jazz guitarist?

A jazz guitarist is a musician who specializes in playing guitar within the jazz genre, using techniques such as improvisation, complex chord voicings, and rhythmic syncopation. Jazz guitarists often perform solo, in ensembles, or as part of a big band, adapting their playing style to fit various jazz subgenres like swing, bebop, or fusion. They typically have a strong understanding of music theory, chord progressions, and improvisational skills, making them versatile performers and collaborators in the jazz scene.
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Jazz Guitar jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jazz Guitar job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, and 53% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,120 per year, or $27.9 per hour.
FP9868 Part-time Faculty, Jazz Guitar

FP9868 Part-time Faculty, Jazz Guitar

Northeastern State University

Tahlequah, OK • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Northeastern State University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

335th of 611 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Artist Instructor of Jazz Guitar, Music, Tahlequah
Notice to applicants
It is Northeastern State University's policy that all newly hired employees must provide an original social security card during the hiring process. Failure to provide an original social security card will delay the hiring process and ability to begin employment.
Description of Position
The Department of Music at Northeastern State University is seeking a highly qualified artist for undergraduate level guitar classes. Potential classes included class guitar and applied jazz guitar. Jazz combo coaching and general education courses are also a possibility, depending on departmental needs and candidate's qualifications. Instruction is expected to take place in person.
Experience
Previous teaching experience preferred.
Education requirements
Master's degree in a field related to jazz studies, or appropriate instrument required to teach undergraduate courses;
Doctorate required to teach graduate level courses.
Salary $375 per credit hour for applied lessons. $800 per traditional course credit hour (typically $2400 per 3 hour course).
Review of applications will begin immediately.
Projected hire date August 3, 2026

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