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Music Composition Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Music Theory Tutor

Providence, RI · 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

Providence, RI · 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 Rhode Island

Music Composition information

See Rhode Island salary details

$29.9K

$56.5K

$119K

How much do music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition in Rhode Island is $56,537.00, 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 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 popular job titles related to Music Composition jobs in Rhode Island?

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

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

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

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Music Composition jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Music Composition job openings:

Music Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Composition job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,537 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Adjuncts, First-Year Writing (Composition/Rhetoric)

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Classification Information
FLSA
Exempt
Rate Per Credit Hour
$1548/credit hour
Position Information
Position Title
Adjuncts, First-Year Writing (Composition/Rhetoric)
Department Name
First Year Writing Program
Academic or Calendar Year
Academic
School Name
Faculty of Arts and Science
Position Overview
The English Department is seeking candidates to fill part-time instructor positions for First Year Writing courses. We welcome applications from those qualified to teach introductory, intermediate and advanced courses.
We seek adjunct faculty committed to teaching and working with our multicultural student population, teaching courses as needed at the undergraduate level.
Essential Duties
* Teach courses as needed at the undergraduate level.
Occasional Duties
N/A
Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
Required Qualifications
  • Master's Degree, ABD or Doctorate in Composition, Rhetoric, Writing Studies, or related field.
  • Minimum of three years of experience teaching writing at the postsecondary level along with significant coursework in Composition, Rhetoric, or Writing Studies at the Master's level.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Teaching experience at the college level.
  • Experience teaching multilingual writers.
  • Bilingual.

Environmental Conditions
Teaching/instruction is performed in a traditional classroom setting.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
A00034
Benefits Eligible?
No
Number of Positions Available
Multiple
Anticipated Start Date or Semester
Academic 2026
Posting Date
07/16/2025
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions/Information for Applicants
  • Candidates must have authorization to work in the US without the need for employer sponsorship.
  • Appointment is contingent upon receipt of an acceptable background screening conducted once selected for the position
  • UNION ELIGIBILITY: Adjuncts become eligible to join the RIC/AFT Adjunct Union if they complete 6 load hours (excludes applied music) within the two previous consecutive years.
    • Payment is made once a month; applicable taxes are withheld.
  • There are no fringe benefits with this position.
  • Upon hire, candidate will be required to provide an official transcript of highest degree earned.
  • Applications for these positions are accepted on a continuous basis and reviewed if openings become available
  • Writing sample, teaching evaluations and/or letters of recommendation are not required at time of application and are required only if requested directly by the department chair.

Apply