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Music Composition Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Those generally taught by adjunct professors include, but are not limited to: * Music Performance ... composition, sound engineering arts, music education, music and entertainment industries, and ...

Primary assignment will initially include teaching coursework in music education, music history, music theory/composition, or music technology. * Other duties as assigned by the Director of the ...

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Music Composition Professor information

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$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:
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.
Part-time Lecturer in Music

Part-time Lecturer in Music

University of Maryland

College Park, MD • On-site

$75 - $140/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


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Job description

Job Description Summary
POSITION SUMMARY: The University of Maryland (UMD) School of Music invites applications for part-time, adjunct faculty positions in music performance, music studies, music theory, music composition, and music education. This posting establishes a pool of qualified candidates to be considered for openings in various specializations as they arise. Responsibilities may include private applied instruction and/or studio classes, teaching academic courses in music, coaching chamber music groups, directing ensembles, or other instructional needs of the School.
We seek colleagues committed to working to advance the artistry and scholarship of students from diverse musical, social, and cultural backgrounds.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: A master's degree in music or a closely related field and/or commensurate professional experience is required.
Minimum Qualifications
Designates faculty who are serving in a teaching capacity in either the Lecturer or Clinical Professor titles series. The normal requirement is a Master's degree in the field of instruction or a related field, or equivalent professional experience in the field of instruction.
Additional Job Details
TO APPLY: Screening will be on an as-needed basis, and will continue until the position is filled. Candidates should submit (a) a cover letter (b) a CV, (c) names, phone numbers, and email addresses for three references. Candidates may be asked to send additional materials at a later date.
SCHOOL OF MUSIC: The University of Maryland School of Music is a comprehensive arts institution housed in the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, a state-of-the-art complex with six performance venues, classrooms, and the Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library. The
School of Music offers B.A., B.M., M.A., M.M., Ph.D., and D.M.A degrees. Located within minutes of the Nation's Capital, the University is linked by mass transit to the homes of the National Symphony Orchestra and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra and the major military service bands. Celebrated performance venues include the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian Museums, the National Gallery, and the Corcoran and Kreeger Museums. World-class research facilities near the campus include the Library of Congress, the Smithsonian Institution (which also houses Smithsonian Folkways Records), the Folger Shakespeare Library, and the National Archives and the National Archives II. We assert and celebrate the value of the arts to the mission of the university. Links: music.umd.edu; theclarice.umd.edu; arts.umd.edu
ABOUT THE CAMPUS: Founded in 1856, the University of Maryland, College Park is the state's flagship institution. Our 1,250-acre College Park campus is just minutes away from Washington, D.C., and the nexus of the nation's legislative, executive and judicial centers of power. This unique proximity to business and technology leaders, federal departments and agencies, and a myriad of research entities, embassies, think tanks, cultural centers and non-profit organizations is simply unparalleled. Synergistic opportunities for our faculty and students abound and are virtually limitless in the nation's capital and surrounding areas. The University is committed to attracting and retaining outstanding and diverse faculty and staff that will enhance our stature of preeminence in our three missions of teaching, scholarship, and full engagement in our community, the state of Maryland, and in the world.
FUNDING STATEMENT: This search is contingent upon the availability of funds.
Open Until Filled: Yes
Physical Demands: Typical office/ classroom requirements.
Department
ARHU-School of Music
Worker Sub-Type
Faculty Non-Regular (Fixed Term)
Salary Range
$75-$140 per hour
Background Checks
Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.
Employment Eligibility
The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.
EEO Statement
The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.
Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice
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