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$49K

$57.5K

$64.5K

How much do music composition professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition professor in the United States is $57,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a music composition professor do?

A Music Composition Professor teaches students the principles and techniques of composing music, covering areas such as music theory, orchestration, songwriting, and digital music production. They design course materials, mentor students on their creative projects, and often oversee student performances or recitals. Additionally, they may conduct their own research or creative work, contribute to academic publications, and participate in university committees. Their goal is to help students develop their unique musical voice and prepare for careers in composition or related fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a music composition professor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Music Composition Professor, you need advanced knowledge of music theory, composition techniques, and a graduate degree (typically a Master's or Doctorate) in music or composition. Familiarity with notation software (such as Sibelius or Finale), digital audio workstations, and experience in academic publishing or performance is often required. Excellent communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help foster student creativity and support academic growth. These skills ensure effective teaching, professional development, and innovation in a competitive academic environment.

What are some common challenges faced by music composition professors when mentoring students with diverse musical backgrounds?

Music Composition Professors often work with students who have varying levels of technical skill, stylistic interests, and exposure to different musical genres. One common challenge is tailoring instruction to meet each student's unique needs while maintaining high academic standards. Additionally, professors must foster an inclusive environment that encourages creativity and constructive critique. Balancing administrative responsibilities, such as curriculum development and ensemble direction, with individualized mentorship can also be demanding but ultimately rewarding.

What is the difference between Music Composition Professor vs Music Theory Professor?

AspectMusic Composition ProfessorMusic Theory Professor
Required CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Music CompositionMaster's or Doctorate in Music Theory or related field
Work EnvironmentUniversities, conservatories, collegesUniversities, conservatories, colleges
Employer & Industry UsageHigher education institutions, arts organizationsHigher education institutions, arts organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for academic roles in musicOften compared for teaching and research in music theory

While both roles involve teaching at higher education institutions and require advanced degrees, a Music Composition Professor specializes in creating original music and guiding students in composition techniques. In contrast, a Music Theory Professor focuses on analyzing musical structures, harmony, and theoretical concepts. Both careers share similar credentials and work environments but differ in their core focus and expertise.

Are music composition professors in demand?

Music composition professors are in steady demand at universities, conservatories, and private institutions, especially those with strong backgrounds in music theory, technology, and performance. Employment opportunities depend on institutional funding, student enrollment, and regional demand for arts education, with competition often high for tenure-track positions.

How to get a job as a music composition professor?

To become a music composition professor, candidates typically need a master's or doctoral degree in music or a related field, along with strong composition skills demonstrated through a portfolio. Relevant teaching experience, professional connections, and proficiency with music notation and digital audio workstations can enhance job prospects. Academic positions often require a combination of education, experience, and a record of published or performed work.

What can I do with a master's in music composition?

A master's in music composition prepares individuals for careers as composers, creating original music for film, television, video games, or concert settings. Graduates can also work as music arrangers, orchestrators, or educators, often utilizing digital audio workstations and music theory skills. Advanced knowledge of music software and performance techniques enhances job prospects in these fields.
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What states have the most Music Composition Professor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Music Composition Professor jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Music Composition Professor jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Composition Professor jobs are:

Music Composition Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Composition Professor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,500 per year, or $27.6 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 20 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