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Music Composition Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Lee College

Adjunct - Organ Instructor

Baytown, TX · On-site

$34.03 - $51.04/hr

Bachelor's (or higher) degree in Music, Music Education, Music Pedagogy, Music Performance, Collaborative Music, Music Theory, Music Composition and five (5) years of exceptional documented ...

Del Mar College

ADJUNCT - MUSIC POOL

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

The Associate of Arts in Music prepares students to complete a Bachelor of Music degree in music, music theory and composition as well as music education. The curriculum at Del Mar College seeks to ...

Amarillo College

Adjunct Faculty - Music

Amarillo, TX · On-site

Music Department: 10_10_04_401335 - (MUSI) - Music Opening Date: 06/28/2024 FLSA: Exempt Grade: LH ... Professional experience includes composition, performance, conducting, audio mixing, etc., and is ...

Varsity Tutors

Music Theory Tutor

Carrollton, TX · 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:

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All JobsMusic Composition JobsMusic Composition Jobs in Texas

Music Composition information

See Texas salary details

$28.4K

$53.8K

$113.2K

How much do music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition in Texas is $53,786.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,300.00 and $59,600.00 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.
More about Music Composition jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Composition jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Music Composition jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Music Composition jobs in Texas? For Music Composition jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Music Composition jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Music Composition jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Music Composition jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Music Composition job openings:
Music Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Composition job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,786 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor - Composition

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

University Of Texas at Austin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

141st of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
Teach courses based on applicant's expertise, composition applied lessons, and independent studies in composition at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Supervise graduate student research. Liaise with other units in the College of Fine Arts to foster inter-departmental student collaborations. Develop and advance nationally impactful creative activity as a music composer. Participate in the academic community of the Theory/Composition Division and the broader Sarah and Ernest Butler School of Music through participation in meetings, committee service as assigned, and events.
Start date, August 2026. Salary commensurate with experience. This is a one-year, fixed term appointment.
About the Butler School of Music at the University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin ranks among the finest universities in the country. The Butler School of Music, comprising of over 100 faculty and approximately 650 music students, has an outstanding reputation for its faculty expertise, academic programs, and student outcomes. Degree plans range from the bachelor's to the doctoral level. The Austin area is a dynamic metropolitan area with a growing economy, ample outdoor recreation, many cultural advantages through its numerous arts organizations, and is home to a very active and creative music scene. The composition faculty at the University of Texas at Austin encourage students to explore many different music making traditions and cultures.
Qualifications
DMA or PhD required. Significant professional accomplishments in lieu of a terminal degree will be considered. A portfolio demonstrating a record of or potential for excellence in music composition for one or more of the following contexts: music for orchestra/band, chamber music, electronics, or collaboration across media such as theatre, dance, film, and visual arts. The successful candidate will demonstrate a record of openness to a variety of aesthetics, media, and styles.
Application Instructions
Applications will be reviewed beginning May 28, 2026. The position is open until filled.
To apply, click "apply now" and submit the following materials via Interfolio:
  • cover letter
  • curriculum vitae
  • complete contact information for three references
  • a separate document with live links to the audio/video files of 3-5 representative works, and PDFs of the scores matching those files. If no performance score is used, provide a text describing the work. The links should connect to a cloud based folder (e.g. DropBox, Google Drive, Box, Vimeo, or YouTube).

Letters of recommendation will be requested from selected applicants at a later date. Please do not submit additional supporting materials unless requested by the search committee.

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