ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Music Composition Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ladgov Corporation

Music Therapist

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

Songwriting or music composition * Knowledge of trauma-informed care and mindfulness practices Preferred Qualifications * Experience working with veterans or clinical populations * Program management ...

Ladgov Corporation

Music Therapist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

Songwriting or music composition * Knowledge of trauma-informed care and mindfulness practices Preferred Qualifications * Experience working with veterans or clinical populations * Program management ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMusic Composition Jobs

Music Composition information

See salary details

$30.5K

$57.7K

$121.5K

How much do music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition in the United States is $57,731.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $64,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Music Composition vs Music Arrangement?

AspectMusic CompositionMusic Arrangement
DefinitionCreating original music and melodies from scratch.Adapting existing music for different instruments or ensembles.
Required SkillsCreative songwriting, melody development, harmony.Reharmonization, orchestration, adapting scores.
Work EnvironmentStudios, composers' offices, freelance projects.Studio, rehearsal spaces, live performance settings.
Common UsageFilm scores, video games, original songs.Cover arrangements, orchestral adaptations, band arrangements.

Music composition involves creating original music, while music arrangement focuses on adapting existing compositions for different instruments or ensembles. Both roles require musical creativity, but composition emphasizes original creation, whereas arrangement emphasizes adaptation and orchestration.

What are some common challenges faced by music composers when collaborating with directors or clients on projects?

Music composers often encounter challenges such as interpreting a director's or client's creative vision, adapting to changing feedback, and meeting tight deadlines. Effective communication is key to ensuring the music aligns with the project's emotional tone and narrative. Additionally, composers must balance their artistic expression with the practical needs of the production, often revising pieces several times based on input from collaborators. Building strong professional relationships and staying adaptable are essential for success in this collaborative environment.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the field of music composition, highly successful freelance composers or those working in high-demand areas like film, television, or video game scoring can earn $10,000 or more per month through licensing, commissions, and royalties. Building a strong portfolio, networking, and mastering digital tools like digital audio workstations (DAWs) are essential for reaching this income level without a formal degree.

What jobs pay $400 an hour?

In the field of music composition, highly experienced and renowned composers, especially those working on major film scores, commercials, or with exclusive clients, can earn $400 or more per hour. Such roles typically require a strong portfolio, industry reputation, and often involve freelance work or consulting for high-profile projects.

What jobs are there in a music studio?

In a music studio, common jobs include music producer, sound engineer, recording technician, mixing engineer, mastering engineer, and session musician. These roles involve operating recording equipment, editing audio, and collaborating with artists to produce finished tracks. Skills in audio software and knowledge of acoustics are essential for many studio positions.

What is music composition?

Music composition is the process of creating original music by combining melodies, harmonies, rhythms, and other musical elements. Composers write music for various purposes such as performances, films, games, or personal expression, often using notation software or traditional sheet music. The field encompasses a wide range of styles and genres, and composers may work independently or as part of a larger creative team. Developing skills in music theory, instrumentation, and digital audio tools is common for those interested in music composition.

What jobs can I get with a music composition degree?

A music composition degree can lead to careers such as composer, music director, or sound designer, often requiring proficiency with digital audio workstations and music theory. Graduates may work in film, television, video games, or advertising industries, and some roles may require collaboration with producers or performers.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Music Composition?

The qualifications that you need to start a career in music composition depend on your career goals and your composing skills. You may wish to pursue a degree in music theory, writing, or music performance, especially if you wish to teach at a college level. Composers often need to show their skills through a portfolio of previously-composed work. You can write and record pieces as part of a postsecondary degree program or on your own without any formal training. Most composers are also qualified as musical instrumentalists or performers.

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

To thrive as a Music Composer, you need a strong foundation in music theory, composition techniques, and proficiency with at least one instrument, often supported by a degree in music or related field. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), notation software like Sibelius or Finale, and audio editing tools is typically required. Creativity, collaboration, and the ability to accept feedback are essential soft skills for producing unique works and working with clients or ensembles. These skills are crucial for creating professional-quality compositions that meet artistic or commercial needs in the music industry.
More about Music Composition jobs
What cities are hiring for Music Composition jobs? Cities with the most Music Composition job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Composition jobs? The most popular types of Music Composition jobs are:
What states have the most Music Composition jobs? States with the most job openings for Music Composition jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Music Composition jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Music Composition jobs are:
Music Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Composition job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,731 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Full-Time Temporary Instructor, Music Composition Theory

Full-Time Temporary Instructor, Music Composition Theory

Radford University

Radford, VA • On-site

$49K - $57K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Radford University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

198th of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Full-Time Temporary Instructor, Music Composition Theory

Apply now Job no: 55000444
Work type: Teaching & Research Faculty
Location: Radford
Categories: Performing Arts / Music / Theatre

Title: Full-Time Temporary Instructor, Music Composition Theory

Application Review Date: May 25, 2026

Campus Location: Radford City - Main Campus

Job Description

The Department of Music at Radford University invites applications for a full-time temporary instructor of Composition, Music Technology, and Core Music Courses in theory, technology, music fundamentals and appreciation. This role supports the artistic, instructional, and performance missions of the department. The successful candidate will be an accomplished composer, teacher, and generalist with a strong commitment to student success, artistic excellence, and collaborative music-making in a comprehensive undergraduate-focused program. Provide instruction for an array of undergraduate and graduate core music courses, applied composition, form and analysis, arranging, music technology. Other courses are assigned according to the individual's broad skill set. Other duties may include courses, activities, and/or projects for which qualified.
Position is full-time temporary starting in August 2026.

Required Qualifications

Doctorate in a related field required. Demonstrated excellence in teaching an array of core music, composition, theory, and music technology courses. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Special Instructions to Applicants

Submit performance, works, and lecture videos with the application

Is this position Grant Funded: No

Is this position restricted: No

Is this position eligible for telework: No

Months per Year: 9

Statement of Economic Interest Required: No

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Classification: Teaching & Research Faculty

Employee Classification: Full-Time Temporary 

Department: Music, Dept of

Salary: $49,800 - $57,000

Department Contact Name: R. Wayne Gallops

Department Contact Phone: 5405210872

Department Contact Email: rgallops@radford.edu

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Radford University does not discriminate with regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, national origin, religion, or political affiliation in the administration of its educational programs, activities, admission or employment practices.

Clery Statement

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, Radford University publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the university's policies, procedures, and programs concerning safety and security, as well as three years' of crime statistics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the Radford University Police Department located at 810 East Main Street PO Box 6883, Radford, VA, 24142.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation in the application process please contact the hiring department.

Criminal Background Check Statement

Radford University is committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for all employees, students, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of our hiring and screening process, we conduct criminal background checks in compliance with Virginia Code 19.2-389 and other applicable state and federal laws. Successful candidates will be required to have a criminal background check.

Advertised: 05 May 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend

Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What Radford University employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply