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$37.5K

$54.6K

$72.5K

How much do music composition faculty jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition faculty in the United States is $54,560.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a music composition faculty?

A Music Composition Faculty job involves teaching and mentoring students in the art and techniques of composing music. Faculty members develop curriculum, lead classes on composition, orchestration, and music theory, and provide individual feedback on student work. They may also be involved in research, performances, or collaborations within the academic and professional music communities. Additionally, they often advise students on career paths and portfolio development.

What are the typical responsibilities of a music composition faculty member during the academic year?

Music Composition Faculty members typically teach composition, orchestration, and theory courses while advising and mentoring students on their original works and projects. Responsibilities often include developing curriculum, conducting individual or group lessons, assessing student progress, and participating in faculty meetings or academic committees. Faculty may also collaborate with performers, guest artists, or other faculty members on concerts and interdisciplinary projects. These duties contribute to a dynamic learning environment that fosters creativity and prepares students for professional careers in music.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the music composition faculty position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Music Composition Faculty, you need advanced skills in music theory, composition, orchestration, and a graduate degree (often a DMA or MM) in music composition or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard notation software (such as Sibelius or Finale), digital audio workstations, and possible teaching certifications is important. Strong communication, mentoring abilities, and creativity are valuable soft skills for inspiring and guiding students. These qualifications ensure you can effectively teach, support student growth, and contribute to academic and creative excellence within a collegiate music program.

Are music composition faculty in demand?

Music composition faculty are in steady demand at higher education institutions, especially those with strong music programs and diverse curricula. Employment opportunities depend on institutional funding, regional demand for arts education, and faculty qualifications such as advanced degrees and experience in composition and teaching.

How to get a job as a music composition faculty?

To become a music composition faculty member, candidates typically need a master's or doctoral degree in music or a related field, along with strong composition skills demonstrated through a portfolio or recordings. Relevant teaching experience, knowledge of music theory and technology, and a professional network can improve job prospects. Positions often require a combination of academic credentials, a demonstrated ability to teach and mentor students, and participation in professional music communities.

What jobs can I get as a music composition faculty graduate?

Graduates with a background in music composition can pursue careers as music teachers, composers for film, television, or video games, and music directors. They often work in educational institutions, media production companies, or freelance settings, utilizing skills in music theory, software, and orchestration. Additional certifications or experience in digital audio workstations (DAWs) can enhance job prospects.
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Music Composition Faculty jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Composition Faculty job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,560 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Composition

Galesburg, IL • On-site

Knox College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Knox Collegeexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description
The Department of Music at Knox College invites applications for a full-time, one-year appointment as visiting assistant professor of music beginning September 1, 2022. The successful candidate will demonstrate creativity and innovation in musical composition, excellence in undergraduate teaching and mentorship of student composers within a liberal arts environment, and dedication to service and teaching within a diverse community.
We encourage applications from individuals with expertise in both acoustic and digital music and with possible areas of concentration including (but not limited to) electronic music composition, sound studies, music production and engineering.
In addition to courses in composition and songwriting, teaching responsibilities may include core music theory and music history, aural skills, and advanced seminars in related to the candidate's areas of specialization. The teaching load is six courses for the year, two courses per each 10-week term.
Knox is a diverse college with over 35% of the student body identifying as American students of color and an additional 15% international students. Experience working with diverse populations of students and a commitment to teach successfully in a multicultural environment are expected.
Visiting faculty members at Knox are included in the professional and intellectual life of the College. The visiting faculty member will have a modest annual conference travel budget and access to research resources. Pay is commensurate with entry-level faculty positions at the College. Additional information can be found on our Human Resources webpage at https://www.knox.edu/offices/human-resources/employee-benefits-and-forms.
Qualifications
Qualifications: DMA or PhD in Music Composition expected at time of appointment; exceptional ABD candidates will be considered.
Application Instructions
Candidates should submit:
  1. A letter of application that addresses the candidate's preparation for inclusive teaching and discusses potential courses that would appeal to a diverse population of liberal-arts students.
  2. A curriculum vitae;
  3. Unofficial graduate transcript;
  4. Three confidential letters of recommendation.

Review of applications will begin on July 15, 2022 and continue until the position is filled.
Questions may be addressed to Professor Joan Huguet at musicsearch@knox.edu.

Apply