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Jazz Pianist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archdiocese of St. Louis

Pianist

Saint Charles, MO · On-site

Strong repertoire across classical, jazz, pop, or liturgical music (depending on event type ... Perform live piano music during events such as weddings, funerals, receptions, services, or ...

Archdiocese of St. Louis

Pianist

Saint Charles, MO · On-site

Strong repertoire across classical, jazz, pop, or liturgical music (depending on event type ... Perform live piano music during events such as weddings, funerals, receptions, services, or ...

Archdiocese of St. Louis

Pianist

Saint Charles, MO · On-site

Strong repertoire across classical, jazz, pop, or liturgical music (depending on event type ... Perform live piano music during events such as weddings, funerals, receptions, services, or ...

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Jazz Pianist information

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$12

$26

$68

How much do jazz pianist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for jazz pianist in the United States is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a jazz pianist do?

A jazz pianist is a musician who specializes in playing piano music within the jazz genre. They perform solo or as part of a group, often improvising and interpreting jazz standards, original compositions, or other works in a jazz style. Jazz pianists need to have strong technical skills, a good sense of rhythm, and a deep understanding of jazz harmony and improvisation. They may work in live performance settings, recording studios, or as educators teaching aspiring musicians.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a jazz pianist?

To thrive as a Jazz Pianist, you need advanced piano technique, a strong grasp of jazz theory and improvisation, and often formal training or a music degree. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), notation software, and sound equipment is also valuable. Creativity, adaptability, and strong collaboration skills help set exceptional jazz pianists apart in ensemble and solo settings. These abilities are crucial for dynamic performance, effective communication with other musicians, and successful navigation of diverse musical environments.

What are the typical performance settings and collaborative opportunities for a jazz pianist?

Jazz pianists frequently perform in a variety of settings, such as jazz clubs, concert halls, restaurants, and private events. Collaboration is a key aspect of the role—they often work alongside other musicians in combos, big bands, or as accompanists for vocalists and instrumentalists. Building strong musical relationships and adapting to different group dynamics is essential, as improvisation and real-time interaction are central to jazz performance. Many jazz pianists also participate in recording sessions and may teach or lead workshops to supplement their careers.

What is the difference between Jazz Pianist vs Classical Pianist?

AspectJazz PianistClassical Pianist
Required CredentialsOften self-taught or with jazz-specific training, no formal degree requiredTypically holds a music degree or conservatory training in classical piano
Work EnvironmentPerforming in clubs, jazz festivals, recording studios, and live venuesPerforming in concert halls, orchestras, and recital settings
Industry UsageCommonly employed in jazz bands, ensembles, and solo performancesPrimarily engaged in orchestras, chamber groups, and solo classical recitals

Jazz pianists focus on improvisation, swing rhythms, and jazz harmony, often performing in informal or live settings. Classical pianists emphasize precise technique, interpretation, and adherence to written scores, typically performing in formal concert environments. While both require high-level piano skills, their training, performance style, and industry usage differ significantly.

Do jazz pianists make a lot of money?

Jazz pianists' earnings vary widely based on experience, location, and the type of engagements they secure, such as performances, recordings, or teaching. While top-tier jazz pianists can earn substantial income through concerts and collaborations, many work as freelancers or in part-time roles with more modest pay. Income stability often depends on networking, reputation, and versatility in skills like improvisation and sight-reading.

How much does a jazz pianist make?

Jazz pianists' earnings vary based on experience, location, and performance type. On average, they may earn between $50 and $200 per hour for live performances, with annual income ranging from around $20,000 for part-time musicians to over $100,000 for those with established careers or touring schedules.

What jobs can a jazz pianist get?

A jazz pianist can find employment as a performer in jazz clubs, restaurants, hotels, and at private events such as weddings and parties. They may also work as session musicians, music teachers, or accompanists for vocalists and other instrumentalists, often requiring proficiency with sheet music and improvisation skills.
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What states have the most Jazz Pianist jobs?

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Jazz Pianist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jazz Pianist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,282 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Collaborative Pianist

North Carolina Central University

Durham, NC • On-site

Contractor

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
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Position Information
Working Title
Collaborative Pianist
Position Number
FA9976
Appointment Type
By semester: Fall
FTE
.75 = 30 hours/week, 12 months
Position Overview
Be an Eagle - Where Purpose Takes Flight!
Are you ready to make an impact? At North Carolina Central University (NCCU), we are more than an institution-we are a community rooted in a legacy of excellence and transformation. A historically Black university located in Durham, North Carolina, also known as 'The City of Medicine,' NCCU has been a cornerstone of education since 1910, fostering innovation and progress.
Join our team and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package and exclusive perks designed to support your work-life balance. At NCCU, your professional growth will be nurtured, and your contributions will help shape the future for our students and the community we serve. Become part of a legacy that drives change and achievement.
An opportunity awaits you at NCCU, where your purpose can take flight.
Visit NCCU.edu.
Primary Function of Organizational Unit
North Carolina Central University, a constituent institution of the Universityof North Carolina System, is the nation's first state-supported liberal artsuniversity for African Americans. Located in Durham, North Carolina, in the center of the Research TrianglePark, the University has an enrollment of 7,100 students. The Department of Music offers undergraduate degrees in Music Education, Jazz Studies, Music Performance and Music Industry. NCCU is one of only two HBCUs to offer a Master of Music Degree in Jazz Studies. Student ensembles include the University Choir, the Sound Machine Marching Band, Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combos, and the Vocal Jazz Ensemble.
Primary Purpose of Position
Provide piano accompaniment for students in applied musical instruction (APPL) courses. Accompanimental services include scheduled weekly applied lessons, rehearsals, workshops, departmental recitals and auditions requested by Department of Music faculty.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
A proficient knowledge and command of the piano keyboard, the ability to play the piano in rehearsal and performance for students at a high degree of technical consistency, proficiency and sensitive collaborative artistry.
Minimum Education/Experience
Completed graduate piano or collaborative piano studies (MM/MM in Collaborative Piano)
Licenses or Certification required by Statute or Regulation
None apart from minimum education/experience.
Equal Opportunity Employer
North Carolina Central University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.
Key Responsibilities and Related Competencies
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
F000278
Open Date
08/12/2026
Close Date
09/01/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Date Position Available
08/17/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
  • Final candidates are subject to criminal background checks, and education/license verification prior to employment.

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