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Music Composition Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Music Theory Tutor

Ann Arbor, MI · 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:

Varsity Tutors

Music Theory Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI · 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:

Varsity Tutors

Music Theory Tutor

Detroit, MI · 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:

Varsity Tutors

Piano Tutor

Ann Arbor, MI · 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Piano Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI · 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 ...

Varsity Tutors

Piano Tutor

Detroit, MI · 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 ...

All JobsMusic Composition JobsMusic Composition Jobs in Michigan

Music Composition information

See Michigan salary details

$26.6K

$50.3K

$105.9K

How much do music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition in Michigan is $50,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,900.00 and $55,800.00 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.
More about Music Composition jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Music Composition jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Music Composition job openings:

Music Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Composition job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,318 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Music Librarian (Year-Round)

Interlochen Center for the Arts

Interlochen, MI • On-site

Full-time, Contractor

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

The Music Librarian is responsible for providing library services that support the educational and artistic mission of Interlochen. Working as part of the Fennell Music Library team, this position develops and maintains the library's collections, assists students, faculty, and staff in accessing music and research resources, and fosters a welcoming, collaborative learning environment. Serving both the internationally recognized Interlochen Arts Camp and Interlochen Arts Academy, the Music Librarian works closely with the Director of Libraries and library colleagues to ensure timely access to orchestral, band, choral, chamber music, jazz, scores, recordings, and other library materials that support instruction and performance. This is a full-time, permanent, 12-month position. Occasional evening and weekend hours may be required.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Take the lead role in knowledge and implementation of cataloging standards
  • Oversee all aspects of cataloging, including original and copy cataloging, classification in specialized formats, and authority control
  • Collaborate with other library staff on the selection of materials
  • Oversee and perform binding and processing of library materials
  • Create and maintain documentation for technical and public services
  • Manage billing
  • Assist in management of Koha ILS and EBSCO Discovery Service
  • Compile circulation and collection reports
  • Oversee Music Library outreach and marketing
  • Work with library staff on special projects dealing with outreach, programming, and other library initiatives
  • Provide a high level of reference to students, faculty, and staff
  • Circulate scores, sound recordings, and other Music Library items
  • Assist patrons with technology issues
  • Hire, train, and supervise summer interns
  • Train and supervise community service students
  • Assist with preparation of ensemble materials as needed
  • Participate in school-wide committee work as appropriate
  • Seek the best use of materials, equipment and staff to maximize efficiency and effectiveness
  • Comply with ICA policies/procedures and acts as a good steward of ICA finances
  • Respect the culture, diversity and rights of all students, their families and the community
  • Prioritize duties in a manner consistent with organizational objectives and growth
  • Perform other duties as assigned

  • ALA-accredited Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) required
  • Bachelor's degree in Music required; master's degree in Music preferred
  • Two to three years of relevant library experience strongly preferred
  • High level of proficiency with integrated library systems and library databases
  • Working knowledge of RDA, AACR2, OCLC Connexion, and MARC standards
  • Understanding of current and emerging trends and best practices in libraries
  • Experience with binding and preservation of library materials preferred
  • Proficiency with Google Workspace, integrated library system software, Mac OS, and music composition software
  • Ability to work effectively with highly creative students from diverse educational backgrounds and varying levels of readiness
  • Openness to incorporating the arts as a mode of instruction and/or assessment
  • Strong collaborative skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues across departments
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to follow and execute detailed verbal and written instructions
  • Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders
  • Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful environment that values cultural, ethnic, spiritual, linguistic, and personal diversity

Application Materials Required:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter