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Music Composition Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

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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 Jun 14, 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:

Music and Theatre Arts: Assistant Professor with emphasis in Choral Conducting and Music Education

Wisconsin

Eau Claire, WI

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Position Title:Music and Theatre Arts: Assistant Professor with emphasis in Choral Conducting and Music EducationJob Category:FacultyEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Assistant ProfessorJob Duties:

POSITION:

Probationary tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor of Music, beginning August 17, 2026. The Department of Music and Theatre Arts seeks a dynamic candidate with expertise in choral conducting and music education, who is committed to excellence in teaching, and to recruiting and maintaining an active choral program of undergraduates.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Earned doctorate required, with a specialty in choral conducting. ABD applicants considered, but terminal degree must be finished by March 21, 2027. Demonstrated success as a choral conductor, and a minimum of three years of demonstrated success as a choral music teacher in the public schools (middle or high school) is required. Experience teaching choirs at the collegiate level is desired. Commitment to equity and inclusiveness and/or ability to bring diverse perspectives and experiences to campus is desired.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Conduct choral ensembles. Teach Choral Literature and Conducting or Choral Teaching Methods. Observe choral music education student teachers. Coordinate and oversee choir tours, clinics, and festivals, and to oversee and administrate a student-led show choir production. Specific assignment of choirs will be dependent on applicant's experience and may change, and other courses and responsibilities may be possible according to candidate interest and departmental need. Participate in recruiting and choral area events.

DEPARTMENT:

The Department of Music and Theatre Arts serves approximately 420 majors and minors supported by 31 full-time and 10 part-time faculty.UW-Eau Claire has a large and respected Voice and Choral Area, with five choirs, and strong opera and musical theater programs. The department and its musical programs are highly regarded in the state and region and enrich the Eau Claire community while providing outstanding academic opportunities. Our faculty are well known for the quality of their performances and for their innovative teaching. Academic programs include the BM degree in performance and composition, the BME degree in instrumental and choral music education, and the BA and BS degrees in music and musical theatre. All degree programs are fully accredited by NASM. Applicants are encouraged to peruse the Music and Theatre Arts website.

UNIVERSITY & EAU CLAIRE COMMUNITY:

UW-Eau Claire, an institution of approximately 9,000 students and 1,200 faculty and staff, is consistently recognized as a top comprehensive university in the Midwest, and is widely known as a leader in faculty-undergraduate research and study abroad. We strive for excellence in liberal undergraduate education and select graduate and professional programs through commitment to teaching and learning and dedication to our core values of diversity, sustainability, leadership, and innovation.

The City of Eau Claire, situated at the confluence of the Chippewa and Eau Claire rivers, is at the center of a metropolitan area of approximately 100,000 people located 90 miles east of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The area features beautiful parks and trails, strong public schools, a vibrant arts scene and local food culture, and abundant recreational opportunities. Our department has a close partnership with the Pablo Center at the Confluence, where our student ensembles have opportunities to perform

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Applications are submitted electronically. Please follow instructions found on the following Web site: https://wisconsin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UW_Comprehensives . Please be sure you have included the following in PDF format:

  • Letter of application addressing position qualifications
  • Curriculum vita
  • Video recording of 3 recently conducted choral selections
  • Unofficial graduate school transcript(s)
  • Three current letters of recommendations

Please direct requests for additional information to:

Nicholas Phillips, Department Chair; phillins@uwec.edu

To ensure consideration, completed applications must be received by October 27, 2025. However, screening may continue until position is filled.

Key Job Responsibilities:Department:Compensation:Required Qualifications:Preferred Qualifications:Education:How to Apply:Contact Information:Special Notes:INSTITUTIONAL OVERVIEW

UW-Eau Claire, an institution of approximately 9,000 students and 1,200 faculty and staff, is consistently recognized as a top comprehensive university in the Midwest and is widely known as a leader in faculty-undergraduate research and study abroad. We strive for excellence in liberal education and select graduate and professional programs through commitment to teaching and learning and dedication to our core values of diversity, sustainability, leadership, and innovation. To learn more about UWEC, visit https://www.uwec.edu/human-resources/employment-opportunities/ .

The City of Eau Claire, situated at the confluence of the Chippewa and Eau Claire rivers, is at the center of a metropolitan area of approximately 100,000 people located 90 miles east of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The area features beautiful parks and trails, strong public schools, a vibrant arts scene and local food culture, and abundant recreational opportunities.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The university reserves the right to contact additional references with notice given to the candidates at an appropriate time in the process. Employment will require a background check. Employment will also require you and your references to answer questions regarding past conduct related to sexual violence and sexual harassment.

The Universities of Wisconsin will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. SeeWis. Stat. . 19.36(7).

The UW-Eau Claire Police Department is dedicated to maintaining a safe and secure environment for learning and working. Although crime at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is limited, the University Police want students, faculty and staff to be aware of crime on campus and the area surrounding the campus. The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act is a federal law that requires colleges and universities to disclose annual information about campus crime. VisitCampus Security and Fire Report. Also visit ourCampus Security Authority(CSA) policy.

UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.