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Music Composition Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Music Theory Tutor

Cedar City, UT · 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

Spanish Fork, UT · 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

Logan, UT · 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

Provo, UT · 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:

University of Utah

UU Student - Library

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$16/hr

  • Retirement

... music composition, and/or teaching and learning technology. * Strong communication ability and willingness to speak with a wide variety of patrons. * Current University of Utah student enrolled in at ...

Varsity Tutors

Piano Tutor

Spanish Fork, UT · 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

Cedar City, UT · 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

Provo, UT · 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

Logan, UT · 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 Utah

Music Composition information

See Utah salary details

$27.8K

$52.6K

$110.6K

How much do music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition in Utah is $52,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,400.00 and $58,300.00 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 Utah?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Utah are hiring for Music Composition jobs?

Cities in Utah with the most Music Composition job openings:

Music Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Composition job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,557 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Adjunct Instructor - Music (Commercial Music)

Utah Valley University

Orem, UT • On-site

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Utah Valley University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

477th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Main Campus - Orem
Job Type: Adjunct/Overload Teaching
Job Number: FY2706409
Division: VP Academic Affairs
Department: Music
Opening Date: 08/07/2026
Closing Date: 8/7/2027 11:59 PM Mountain
Required Documents Needed to Apply: Resume
Applicant Support: 1-855-524-5627
Support@schooljobs.com
Continuous Search: **This position is posted on a continuous recruitment basis. This means that applications are accepted even though there may not be a position currently available.**
Position Announcement
The Department of Music seeks a qualified adjunct instructor of commercial music. The successful individual shall perform the following duties:
  • Private Instruction in commercial music
  • Plans and follows an approved course of study with measurable objectives for each course taught.
  • Prepares instructional materials and evaluates instruction and learning by means of written, oral, practical, and performance tests.
  • Maintains a student-oriented approach to teaching.
  • Participates in auditions, juries and master classes as needed.
  • Submits student grades and all requested departmental materials in a timely manner.
  • Attends required department and/or program meetings.
  • Possible additional teaching assignments, based on candidate's expertise and department need may include any courses in the
  • Commercial Music curriculum, Ensemble Coaching, Performance Class(es), Introduction to Music, American Popular Music, Theory, Aural Skills, Music History, Commercial Music, Music Technology, Composition, Music Education, or other courses in the music department.
  • Completes mandatory UVU trainings.

Qualifications / Licenses / Certifications
  • Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in the subject matter or a closely related area OR a combination education and experience.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's or Doctorate degree preferred.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities
  • Knowledge of subject matter and course content of courses taught
  • Knowledge of best practices in instructional strategies and techniques
  • Knowledge of current trends in education
  • Effective interpersonal, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
  • Experience with a variety of teaching methods and/or curricular perspectives
  • Demonstrated success in working with a wide range of students

EEO Statement:
UVU employment decisions are made on the basis of an applicant's qualifications and ability to perform the job without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 and over), disability, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth, or pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or other bases protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Utah Valley University's dedication to exceptional care offers quality service and benefits to employees while staying committed to meeting the needs of a diverse workforce.
Although part-time and adjunct (less than 30 hours per week) employees are ineligible for the full-time employee benefits package, the university is pleased to offer the following:
  • Undergraduate tuition remission benefit:
    • Part-time: waives 100 percent of tuition and general student fees for up to 3 credit hours or 1 course after 6 consecutive months of employment and a minimum of 480 hours worked (dependents do not qualify)
    • Adjunct: waives 100 percent of tuition and general student fees for one course per semester in which there is an active teaching assignment at the university (dependents do not qualify)
  • Access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Access to Campus Recreation and Wellness
  • Exclusive cash rewards through Utah Community Credit Union's (UCCU) branch on UVU's campus when becoming a member

01
Do you meet the required qualifications as outlined: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in the subject matter or a closely related area OR a combination education and experience?
  • Yes
  • No

02
What is your highest level of education?
  • High School or equivalent
  • Associates
  • Bachelors
  • Masters
  • Ph.D.
  • Ph.D. (abd)
  • Juris Doctorate

03
How many years of experience do you have in this type of position?
  • <1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8+

04
Describe your experience teaching applied commercial music lessons.
05
What pedagogical practices and/or tools enhance your delivery of applied lesson instruction?
06
How do you tailor your teaching to meet the needs of students from all backgrounds?
07
Describe your experience in preparing instructional materials.
08
What questions do you have?
Required Question

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