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Music Composition Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Strong understanding of music theory, music education, and general music Functional knowledge of sheet music composition Ability to: Ability to play the piano or other musical instruments Ability to ...

Music Theory Tutor

Edina, MN · 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

Minneapolis, MN · 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

Saint Paul, MN · 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:

Many of our students attend competitive graduate programs for music performance, musicology, conducting, and composition. A number of our music majors double major in other academic areas and pursue ...

Piano Tutor

Saint Paul, MN · 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

Edina, MN · 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

Minneapolis, MN · 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 Minnesota salary details

$29.9K

$56.5K

$119K

How much do music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition in Minnesota is $56,543.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $62,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 film, TV, or video game projects 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.

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.

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, skills in digital audio workstations and a strong portfolio can improve job prospects, especially as media production continues to grow globally.

What can I do with a degree in music composition?

A degree in music composition prepares individuals to work as composers for film, television, video games, or concert music, creating original scores and arrangements. Graduates can also pursue careers in music production, arranging, or teaching, often utilizing software like Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and developing strong musical theory and technical skills.

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 the most commonly searched types of Music Composition jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Music Composition jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Music Composition jobs in Minnesota? For Music Composition jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Music Composition jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Music Composition jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Music Composition job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,543 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

$27.50 - $30.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


City Of Maple Grove rating

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Job description

Job Summary About Maple Grove, MN Maple Grove is a forward-thinking, thriving community in the northwest suburbs of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. We are home to over 70,000 residents with a projected population of 90,000 by 2040 with 2,500 acres of undeveloped land. The City of Maple Grove is proud to employ over 250 benefit-earning employees, 500+ part-time, casual, temporary, seasonal employees, and 100 paid-on-call firefighters to staff our many departments.

We provide public safety, public works, community and economic development, parks & recreation, and many other important public services to a growing community. The Position The City of Maple Grove Parks & Recreation is looking for dedicated Private Piano Instructors interested in being a part of a community-based Music Program. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in music education and performance, with the ability to teach students instruments such as Piano, Guitar, Woodwinds, and/or Voice lessons.

As a Private Music Instructor, you will be responsible for developing lesson plans that cater to the unique needs of each student. Responsible for working with students of all ages and skill levels from beginners to intermediate, and helping them develop their technical skills, musicality, and overall appreciation for music. Come join our growing and diverse community.

**Posting will be open until filled, a apply immediately, interviews are conducted as applications are received** Responsibilities Develop lesson and action plans to assist students in their learning Monitoring students' progress and skill development Adapt lessons based on student's needs Provide constructive feedback to students as needed or requested Document students' progress, skill set, and capabilities during lessons Teach theory of music as applicable Maintaining and encouraging a fun and positive atmosphere in lessons Coordinates efforts to ensure the City of Maple Grove is a respectful, equitable, inclusive, organization while supporting the City's mission, vision, and core values Demonstrates ability to understand and respect the diversity of customers and co-workers, effectively communicating with individuals of all ages Knowledge of: Strong understanding of music theory, music education, and general music Functional knowledge of sheet music composition Ability to: Ability to play the piano or other musical instruments Ability to teach others how to play & read music Reliable interpersonal skills for one-on-one music instruction Communicate effectively with students and their families Qualifications Need to have: One year of experience teaching music Nice to have Bachelor's degree or working towards a degree in a music-related field WORKING CONDITIONS Environmental Conditions: Indoor music studio/rooms Physical Conditions: Sitting during lessons Supplemental Information


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