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Jazz Musician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jazz Band

Camas, WA · On-site

$4.9K/wk

Stipend of $4,950 per semester Skyridge Middle School is seeking a Jazz Band Instructor to lead our ... Responsibilities include planning and delivering engaging rehearsals, selecting appropriate music ...

Staff Accountant

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

WORKING AT JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER The music is present here, literally and philosophically, and the people who thrive are the ones who feel that and lean into it. They are Fans, Advocates, Musicians ...

$60 - $80/hr

WORKING AT JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER The music is present here, literally and philosophically, and the people who thrive are the ones who feel that and lean into it. They are Fans, Advocates, Musicians ...

Administrative Assistant

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

... jazz musician Lester Young, and painter Martin Heade. Designed by renowned landscape architect Andrew Jackson Downing, the cemetery features diverse architectural styles in its mausoleums and grave ...

Jazz Hands Musicians Academy Full Time/ Part Time: Part-time position requiring up to 30 hours per week (depending on number of students in caseload) Pay: $20/hr Job Overview: The Part-Time Guidance ...

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Jazz Musician information

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How much do jazz musician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for jazz musician in the United States is $12.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $12.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a jazz musician?

Jazz musicians are artists who perform, compose, and improvise music within the jazz genre. Their work often involves a deep understanding of rhythm, harmony, and melody, as well as the ability to interpret and innovate upon traditional jazz standards. Jazz musicians can play various instruments, such as the saxophone, trumpet, piano, or drums, and often collaborate in ensembles or bands. Improvisation is a key element of jazz, allowing musicians to express their individuality in each performance.

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

To thrive as a Jazz Musician, you need strong musical proficiency, improvisational ability, and a solid understanding of music theory, often supported by formal music education or extensive performance experience. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), music notation software, and recording equipment is commonly required. Creativity, collaboration, and adaptability are essential soft skills for excelling in diverse ensembles and live performance environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering engaging performances, contributing to group dynamics, and succeeding in the evolving world of jazz music.

What are some common challenges jazz musicians face when performing in a live ensemble setting?

Jazz musicians often encounter the challenge of balancing individual improvisation with group cohesion during live performances. Navigating spontaneous changes in tempo, key, or dynamics requires active listening and quick adaptability. Additionally, effective communication—both verbal and nonverbal—is crucial to ensure smooth transitions and cohesive ensemble sound. Overcoming these challenges helps musicians create engaging, dynamic performances while building strong collaborative skills.

What is the difference between Jazz Musician vs Blues Musician?

AspectJazz MusicianBlues Musician
Required CredentialsMusic degree or equivalent experience, improvisation skillsMusic knowledge, improvisation, often self-taught or informal training
Work EnvironmentJazz clubs, festivals, recording studiosBlues clubs, festivals, street performances
Industry UsagePerforming jazz standards, improvisation-focusedPerforming blues songs, storytelling through music
Common Search IntentJazz musician careers, jazz performance tipsBlues musician roles, blues performance techniques

While both Jazz and Blues musicians often share improvisation skills and perform in similar venues, Jazz Musicians typically focus on complex improvisation and jazz standards, whereas Blues Musicians emphasize storytelling and emotional expression through blues songs. Understanding these differences helps aspiring musicians choose their specialization and target the right opportunities.

How do you become a jazz musician?

To become a jazz musician, one typically learns to play an instrument through formal education or self-study, develops improvisation skills, and gains experience performing with other musicians. Many jazz musicians attend music schools or conservatories and build a portfolio of performances to establish their careers.

How much do jazz musicians get paid?

Jazz musicians' earnings vary widely based on experience, location, and performance type. On average, they may earn from $50 to $200 per gig, with seasoned professionals or those in prominent venues earning higher rates. Many jazz musicians supplement income through teaching, recording, or touring.
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Infographic showing various Jazz Musician job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $27,000 per year, or $13 per hour.

Jazz & Contemporary Piano Instructor

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

Macphail Center for Music
51 - 200 employees

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

TITLE: Contemporary Piano Instructor
REPORTS TO: Director of Electronic Music & Recording Arts (EMRA)
DEPARTMENT: Electronic Music & Recording Arts (EMRA)
STATUS: Exempt, Part Time
LOCATION: Minneapolis, On-Site
COMPENSATION: $42.00 - $49.00 per hour
BENEFITS: 403b, Flexible Spending Account - Transportation, Tuition Discounts, Professional Development, MN Safe & Sick Time

JOB SUMMARY
The Contemporary Piano Instructor teaches individual lessons to students of all ages and skill levels, with a special focus on engaging beginners interested in exploring a range of musical styles, including jazz, pop, and rock. The Instructor will be responsible for maintaining high standards of teaching expertise while introducing foundational piano techniques while nurturing each student’s creativity and musical interests across diverse genres. In addition to teaching, the Instructor will also participate in studio recitals and may have opportunities to coach small ensembles or lead group classes.

RESPONSIBILITIES and ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Instruction & Mentorship
  • Provide high-quality, individualized piano instruction, including modeling effective techniques and musical interpretation through demonstration
  • Develop and lead lesson plans that foster growth and creative exploration
  • Maintain professional standards of teaching expertise, staying current with best practices in jazz, pop, and rock piano pedagogy
  • Establish a good rapport with students and families, encouraging open discussion
Administrative
  • Manage Studio Logistics including, but not limited to: lesson scheduling, registration, and regular communication with students and families
Performance Preparation
  • Ensure students are performance-ready and understand the process of translating rehearsal work into public presentation
Community & Culture Building
  • Foster an inclusive, student-centered environment that supports risk-taking, mutual respect, and creative expression
  • Support outreach and communication efforts to help raise awareness, engage new participants, and connect the work of MacPhail Center for Music to the broader community
  • Model curiosity, openness, and professionalism in all interactions with students, families, and colleagues
QUALIFICATIONS Education
  • A degree or certification in music or music education, or the equivalent, preferred
Experience
  • Minimum of three years of studio teaching all ages and skill levels, of which a significant portion is with young students and beginners, required
  • Experience teaching small groups, preferredExperience teaching diverse styles of music, preferred
Skills & Abilities
  • High standards of pedagogical expertise
  • Ability to tailor instruction to individual goals
  • Commitment to inclusive, student-centered teaching
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