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Music Composition Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Music Theory Tutor

Bridgeport, CT ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:

Music Theory Tutor

New Haven, CT ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:

Music Theory Tutor

Hartford, CT ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:

Music Theory Tutor

Norwalk, CT ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:

Music Theory Tutor

Stamford, CT ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:

Piano Tutor

Hartford, CT ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes building musicianship alongside technical skill and connects piano study to music theory, composition, and ensemble participation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Piano Tutor

Stamford, CT ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes building musicianship alongside technical skill and connects piano study to music theory, composition, and ensemble participation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Piano Tutor

Bridgeport, CT ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes building musicianship alongside technical skill and connects piano study to music theory, composition, and ensemble participation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Piano Tutor

Norwalk, CT ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes building musicianship alongside technical skill and connects piano study to music theory, composition, and ensemble participation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Piano Tutor

New Haven, CT ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes building musicianship alongside technical skill and connects piano study to music theory, composition, and ensemble participation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

Music Composition information

See Connecticut salary details

$29K

$54.9K

$115.6K

How much do music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition in Connecticut is $54,919.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,100.00 and $60,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is music composition?

Music composition is the process of creating original music by combining melodies, harmonies, rhythms, and other musical elements. Composers write music for various purposes such as performances, films, games, or personal expression, often using notation software or traditional sheet music. The field encompasses a wide range of styles and genres, and composers may work independently or as part of a larger creative team. Developing skills in music theory, instrumentation, and digital audio tools is common for those interested in music composition.

What are the qualifications to get a job in music composition?

The qualifications that you need to start a career in music composition depend on your career goals and your composing skills. You may wish to pursue a degree in music theory, writing, or music performance, especially if you wish to teach at a college level. Composers often need to show their skills through a portfolio of previously-composed work. You can write and record pieces as part of a postsecondary degree program or on your own without any formal training. Most composers are also qualified as musical instrumentalists or performers.

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

To thrive as a Music Composer, you need a strong foundation in music theory, composition techniques, and proficiency with at least one instrument, often supported by a degree in music or related field. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), notation software like Sibelius or Finale, and audio editing tools is typically required. Creativity, collaboration, and the ability to accept feedback are essential soft skills for producing unique works and working with clients or ensembles. These skills are crucial for creating professional-quality compositions that meet artistic or commercial needs in the music industry.

What are some common challenges faced by music composers when collaborating with directors or clients on projects?

Music composers often encounter challenges such as interpreting a director's or client's creative vision, adapting to changing feedback, and meeting tight deadlines. Effective communication is key to ensuring the music aligns with the project's emotional tone and narrative. Additionally, composers must balance their artistic expression with the practical needs of the production, often revising pieces several times based on input from collaborators. Building strong professional relationships and staying adaptable are essential for success in this collaborative environment.

What is the difference between Music Composition vs Music Arrangement?

AspectMusic CompositionMusic Arrangement
DefinitionCreating original music and melodies from scratch.Adapting existing music for different instruments or ensembles.
Required SkillsCreative songwriting, melody development, harmony.Reharmonization, orchestration, adapting scores.
Work EnvironmentStudios, composers' offices, freelance projects.Studio, rehearsal spaces, live performance settings.
Common UsageFilm scores, video games, original songs.Cover arrangements, orchestral adaptations, band arrangements.

Music composition involves creating original music, while music arrangement focuses on adapting existing compositions for different instruments or ensembles. Both roles require musical creativity, but composition emphasizes original creation, whereas arrangement emphasizes adaptation and orchestration.

How much do music composers get paid?

Music composers' salaries vary widely based on experience, project type, and industry. Entry-level composers may earn around $30,000 to $50,000 annually, while experienced professionals working on major films, TV, or advertising can earn six-figure incomes or more. Many composers supplement income through freelance work, licensing, and royalties, and proficiency with digital audio workstations (DAWs) is often essential.

Is there a demand for music composers?

The demand for music composers varies across industries such as film, television, video games, and advertising, where original music is often required. While competition can be high, skilled composers with proficiency in digital audio workstations and a strong portfolio have opportunities in both freelance and studio settings, especially as media production continues to grow.

What jobs can I get as a music composition graduate?

Music composition graduates can pursue careers as composers for film, television, video games, or advertising, creating original scores and soundtracks. They may also work as music arrangers, orchestrators, music directors, or in roles involving music production, sound design, and music licensing. Strong skills in music theory, digital audio workstations, and collaboration are essential in these fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Music Composition jobs in Connecticut?

The most popular types of Music Composition jobs in Connecticut are:

What are popular job titles related to Music Composition jobs in Connecticut?

For Music Composition jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Music Composition jobs in Connecticut are:

Infographic showing various Music Composition job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,919 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Music - Music Theory & Organist

Trinity College Dublin

Hartford, CT โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job Family Group:
Faculty
Time Type:
Full time
Department/Office:
Music
Exemption Status:
Exempt
Job Description:
TRINITY UNIVERSITY, DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC is seeking a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Music and University Organist, beginning August 2027. The Department of Music invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor to serve as a vital link between our academic core and our institutional heritage. We seek a scholar capable of delivering rigorous instruction in the undergraduate music theory sequence while serving as the University Organist.
The successful candidate will not only teach and perform but also actively recruit students to maintain a vibrant organ and harpsichord studio. The ability to foster high-level creative activity and research in solo and collaborative performance is essential. This position plays a pivotal role in the public face of the University through ceremonial leadership, the stewardship of the historic Parker Chapel organs, and contributing to the University's general curriculum and liberal arts mission.
Trinity University is a secular, independent, private institution, founded in 1869. Trinity offers high-quality science, liberal arts, and pre-professional programs as represented by the four schools (STEM, Arts & Humanities, Social Science and Civic Engagement, and Business) to approximately 2,500 undergraduate students from the U.S. and more than 45 countries. The attractive campus overlooks downtown San Antonio, a city rich in heritage and ethnic diversity. Additional information can be found on the Resource Guide to Trinity & San Antonio.
The Carlos Alvarez School of Arts and Humanities, endowed with a gift of $25 million, is at the center of Trinity's liberal arts education. Faculty are international leaders in their respective fields, creating engaged learning experiences grounded in careful study of tradition, critical thinking, clear communication, and creative expression.
The Music Department operates within the context and mission of Trinity's commitment to an undergraduate education based on the foundation of a Liberal Arts and Sciences curriculum. The Music Department's instructional staff consists of 11 full-time tenure-track faculty and a full component of part-time faculty covering private studio lessons and adjunct teaching. The department offers, in addition to class and performance opportunities to all students irrespective of their major, a minor in music, Bachelor of Arts in Music, and Bachelor of Music degree. Majors may select composition, performance, or pre-certification in music education as a concentration. Performing ensembles include three curricular choirs, Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Ensemble. Students can also perform in smaller groups such as Handbell Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, jazz combos, string quartets, and a variety of chamber wind ensembles.
Both the Department of Music and the University as a whole value and safeguard academic freedom for faculty members in their teaching and scholarship. Trinity is guided by a set of core values and is committed to implementing practices in pursuit of an inclusive campus for all students, faculty, and staff to feel welcomed and engaged in a community of learning.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Teaching applied lessons in organ and harpsichord, which includes mentoring students and equipping them with versatile "portfolio careers" that combine solo performance, continuo playing, collaborative skills, and worship service leadership.
  • Provide effective instruction within the music theory sequence, which includes courses in written theory, aural skills, and keyboard skills.
  • In partnership with the University Chaplain, provide musical leadership for services taking place in Parker Chapel, such as the annual Vespers service, and serve as the primary musical steward for university-wide ceremonies (including Commencement, Convocation, Baccalaureate).
  • Engage in scholarly and creative activity that leads to peer-reviewed publications, high-profile public performances, conference presentations, or other substantial contributions to the field.
  • Supervise undergraduate research in historical performance practice and the theoretical analysis of both sacred and secular keyboard literature.
  • Advise undergraduate students, supporting their academic progress, recital preparation, and post-graduation success.
  • Oversee and coordinate events that are part of the endowed Parker Chapel Music Series.
  • Partner with the University Chaplain to administer the Brown-Herndon Organ Endowment, providing sustained professional stewardship for the care, preservation, and responsible use of the University's historic pipe organs.
  • A commitment to participate in and contribute to the University's general curriculum, known as Pathways.
  • Participate in university service, student recruitment, interdisciplinary campus initiatives, and alumni relations efforts.

APPOINTMENT DETAILS
This position will be a 9-month appointment (9 or 12 month disbursement) starting August 2027, with a standard pre-tenure probationary period.
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
Required:
Doctoral degree in Music (e.g. DMA, PhD) in Organ Performance, Music Theory, or a closely related field (ABD considered if degree will be conferred before the Fall 2027 term).
EXPERIENCE
Required:
  • Successful record of providing individual instruction in organ.
  • Demonstrated excellence in teaching within an undergraduate music theory curriculum.
  • Active and established record of high-level solo and/or collaborative organ performance.

Preferred:
  • Experience working in a church, cathedral, or university setting, demonstrating capacity for worship planning and ceremonial leadership.
  • Demonstrated professional experience in collaborative keyboard playing, such as accompanying choral ensembles, chamber groups, or continuo playing.
  • A record of successful student recruitment, particularly in engaging non-majors and interdisciplinary students in studio instruction.
  • Experience with organ curation and stewarding historic or endowed instruments.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
1. Superior keyboard skills, including service playing, improvisation, solo repertoire, and collaborative performance.
2. Strong foundation in music theory pedagogy, with an emphasis on performance-integrated instruction.
3.Capacity to adapt pedagogical approaches to effectively teach both novice and advanced undergraduate organ/harpsichord students.
4. Ability to provide musical leadership in sacred and ceremonial settings.
5. Willingness to work across departments and interdisciplinary programs.
6. Active scholarly research and creative activity.
7. Openness to curriculum innovation while adapting to evolving educational needs.
8. Active participation in professional organizations.
9. Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills, as well as knowledge of relevant music technologies.
10. Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and community engagement.
HOW TO APPLY
For internal applicants, please apply through Workday using the 'Jobs Hub' application, see instructions provided here.
For external applicants, when starting the application, select "Apply Manually." Only complete fields with a red asterisk, which are required.Please create your Workday application account using a personal email address, as you will need to maintain access to this account throughout the pre-hire process, if selected.
For all applicants, you do not need to complete the "(Work) Experience," "Education," "Certifications," or "Languages" fields - these details will be provided in your curriculum vitae.
In the "Application Documents" field, please upload the following 3 file as seen below.
File 1: Cover Letter
File 2: Curriculum vitae, please include list of references and full contact information
File 3: Statement of teaching philosophy (1-2 page), including a reflection on the ways that you might contribute to cultivating an environment where people feel welcomed, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Second round applicants will be asked to provide teaching and performance videos. These may be requested during semester break, so please plan accordingly.
Complete applications submitted on or before November 20, 2026. The search will remain open until the position has been filled.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Brian Bondari (bbondari@trinity.edu)
Please ensure that all required documents are uploaded prior to submitting an application. If you have revisions needed to an application already submitted or need help submitting an application, please contact Human Resources at 210-999-7507 or email humanresources@trinity.edu.