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Music Composition Teacher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hebrew Public

Music Teacher

Philadelphia, PA

$55K - $88K/yr

Teach foundational music skills through singing, movement, instruments, listening, composition, and performance. * Introduce students to music from diverse cultures, traditions, genres, and ...

Hebrew Public

Music Teacher

Philadelphia, PA

$55K - $88K/yr

Teach foundational music skills through singing, movement, instruments, listening, composition, and performance. * Introduce students to music from diverse cultures, traditions, genres, and ...

Hebrew Public

$55K - $88K/yr

Teach foundational music skills through singing, movement, instruments, listening, composition, and performance. * Introduce students to music from diverse cultures, traditions, genres, and ...

New

Hebrew Public

Music Teacher

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$55K - $88K/yr

Teach foundational music skills through singing, movement, instruments, listening, composition, and performance. * Introduce students to music from diverse cultures, traditions, genres, and ...

Ladgov Corporation

Music Therapist

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

Teach guitar skills and facilitate songwriting activities * Lead mindfulness and stress-reduction ... Songwriting or music composition * Knowledge of trauma-informed care and mindfulness practices ...

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How much do music composition teacher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for music composition teacher in the United States is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a music composition teacher?

The responsibilities of a music composition teacher include instructing musical composition and music theory to students at the beginner through advanced level, most often in a college or university setting. Classes are held in a group or one-on-one, and you are expected to gauge the skill level of each student and modify your composition lessons accordingly. This ensures everyone learns the information in the best way possible. You assist students in developing a piece of music using one or a variety of instruments and teach about music structure. Other duties are dependent on your interest and musical style expertise including electronic music, improvisation, performance, and more. You are also expected to network and collaborate on music projects with coworkers when working at the university level.

What does a music composition teacher do?

A Music Composition Teacher is responsible for instructing students on the principles and techniques of creating original music. They teach topics such as music theory, harmony, melody, instrumentation, and arranging, helping students develop their own compositional style. These educators often provide feedback on student works, guide creative projects, and may also cover music history and contemporary trends. Their goal is to nurture students' creativity and technical skill in composing music for various settings, such as concerts, films, or digital media.

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

To thrive as a Music Composition Teacher, you need a strong background in music theory, composition techniques, and teaching credentials such as a degree in music education or composition. Familiarity with music notation software (like Sibelius or Finale), digital audio workstations, and classroom management systems is typically required. Creativity, patience, and the ability to inspire and communicate complex ideas simply are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively guiding students in developing their compositional voice while fostering a positive and productive learning environment.

How does a music composition teacher typically collaborate with other faculty and departments within a school or university?

Music Composition Teachers often work closely with performance faculty, ensemble directors, and other academic staff to provide students with comprehensive musical experiences. Collaboration may involve organizing student recitals, coordinating interdisciplinary projects, and integrating composition assignments into performance classes. Regular meetings and joint curriculum planning help ensure that students receive well-rounded instruction and opportunities to showcase their original works. This collaborative environment fosters creativity, professional growth, and a supportive network for both teachers and students.

What is the difference between Music Composition Teacher vs Music Theory Instructor?

AspectMusic Composition TeacherMusic Theory Instructor
Required CredentialsMusic degree, composition certification, teaching credentialsMusic degree, music theory certification, teaching credentials
Work EnvironmentSchools, private studios, universitiesUniversities, colleges, online platforms
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, private lessonsAcademic institutions, online education
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Music Composition Teachers focus on teaching students how to create and arrange original music pieces, emphasizing practical composition skills. Music Theory Instructors concentrate on understanding the principles and structures behind music, often covering harmony, scales, and notation. Both roles require similar credentials and are often found in educational settings, but their focus areas differ, catering to different student needs.

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Music Composition Teacher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Composition Teacher job openings in the United States as of August 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 $45,126 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Composition

Knox College

Galesburg, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 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