ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Music Composition Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Miamioh

Assistant Teaching Professor - Music

Center, TX · On-site

Job Title Assistant Teaching Professor - Music Department Music Department Worker Type Regular Pay ... Doctorate in Music Theory or Composition (completed by the start date of appointment) Consideration ...

Miamioh

Assistant Teaching Professor - Music

Oxford, OH · On-site

Job Title Assistant Teaching Professor - Music Department Music Department Worker Type Regular Pay ... Doctorate in Music Theory or Composition (completed by the start date of appointment) Consideration ...

Umd

Part-time Lecturer in Music

College Park, MD

$140/hr

... composition, and music education. This posting establishes a pool of qualified candidates to be ... Clinical Professor titles series. The normal requirement is a Master's degree in the field of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMusic Composition Professor Jobs

Music Composition Professor information

See salary details

$49K

$57.5K

$64.5K

How much do music composition professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 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 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.

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 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.
More about Music Composition Professor jobs
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% 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.
Adjunct Faculty (Music - Piano) SAC - req13777

Adjunct Faculty (Music - Piano) SAC - req13777

San Antonio College

San Antonio, TX • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Adjunct Faculty (Music - Piano) SAC - req13777
To receive consideration for employment, you must upload transcript(s) and a Resume/CV. Please submit transcript(s) under "Other Documents" under applicant profile in application.
Posting closes on: 11/15/2026 at 6:00pm CST
This position is part-time and temporary
Employment type: TN
Hours per Week: Varies
Hourly or Salaried: Salary
Entry Pay: Depends on education level
Funding source: Hard Money
Benefits Eligible: No
Location: VP Academic Success
1819 N Main Ave.
San Antonio, Texas, 78212
United States
Requisition #: req13777
Outside working hours if other than M-F 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.: Adjuncts may be offered evening or weekend classes.
Job Summary and Description
Teaching faculty are professional educators who have the primary responsibility of fulfilling the District mission of providing a quality education for all students attending the colleges. Categories include full-time, temporary with benefits, and temporary without benefits. Full-time faculty members are classified according to the ranks of Instructor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Professor. Faculty members are responsible to a department/program chairperson. The relationship of the faculty member to the student is one of leader, teacher, advisor, and facilitator of learning. Faculty members will uphold the mission and values of the colleges' and foster effective working relationships with students and colleagues.
To view a complete job description, click here.
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience:
  • Master's degree in Music or related field; or master's degree in any discipline with 18 graduate hours of Music or related field.
  • Related Field Examples: Musicology, Music Composition, Music Education, Music Performance, Music Theory, Musical Arts.

EEO Statement

Apply