1

Music Composition Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Music Theory Tutor

Lynn, MA · 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

Quincy, MA · 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

Lowell, MA · 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

Boston, MA · 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

Waltham, MA · 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

Newton, MA · 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

Somerville, MA · 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

Cambridge, MA · 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:

Availability to work hours between 9:00am and 5:00pm on Mondays through Fridays * Literate in musical composition and using notation software (Sibelius) * Familiarity with Berklee's undergraduate and ...

... composition to business, education, music therapy, music and culture grounded in the African diaspora, and other disciplines. Berklee's innovative curriculum blends contemporary and classical ...

Audio Engineer - AI Trainer

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$13 - $17/hr

Formal training in music performance, theory, or composition. * Credited or commercially released production, engineering, or mixing work. * Broad familiarity with contemporary genres, sub-genres ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Music Composition information

See Boston, MA salary details

$33.1K

$62.7K

$132K

How much do music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition in Boston, MA is $62,719.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $69,500.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Music Composition jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Music Composition jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Music Composition jobs in Boston, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Music Composition jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Composition jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Music Composition jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Music Composition job openings:

Infographic showing various Music Composition job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,719 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Digital Music Production Teaching Opportunities

Concorde Education

Cambridge, MA

$50/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Location: On-site at partner schools; varies by assignment

Teaching Mode: In Person

Grade Levels: Elementary, Middle, and High School; varies by assignment

Schedule: Typically 1–4 instructional service hours per week after school

Program Length: Commonly approximately 10 weeks per assignment

Start Dates: Opportunities become available throughout the school year

Compensation: Typical compensation of $50+ per completed instructional service hour, depending on assignment scope, experience, location, schedule, and agreed compensation

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

Concorde Education is seeking independent instructional contractors to provide digital music production enrichment services for K–12 students.

This is a potential independent contractor assignment, not an employee position. Contractors may choose whether to apply for, accept, decline, or ignore available opportunities.

Assignments vary by school, grade level, schedule, available technology, software platforms, curriculum, student experience levels, and program objectives.

Concorde may provide curriculum guidance, lesson-plan suggestions, instructional resources, project ideas, or program objectives. Contractors may use their professional judgment to adapt instruction within the assignment scope and applicable site requirements.

ASSIGNMENT SCOPE

Depending on the accepted assignment, contractors may:

• Plan and facilitate engaging, age-appropriate digital music production sessions;

• Introduce students to beat-making, digital recording, music composition, and audio production through project-based learning;

• Adapt instruction based on student experience levels, available technology, software platforms, site requirements, and assignment objectives;

• Guide students in creating original beats, songs, podcasts, soundtracks, remixes, or other digital audio projects, where applicable;

• Introduce students to digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as BandLab, Soundtrap, GarageBand, or similar platforms;

• Support students in recording, editing, arranging, mixing, and exporting audio projects appropriate to the assignment;

• Maintain a safe, respectful, inclusive, and age-appropriate learning environment;

• Exercise professional judgment when adapting instruction based on available equipment, student ability, technology limitations, school policies, copyright considerations, and assignment requirements;

• Communicate assignment-related needs or significant concerns with Concorde and school staff, as appropriate;

• Complete a brief session completion form after each scheduled session; and

• Follow applicable site safety, visitor, technology, internet-use, emergency, and student-protection procedures.

EXAMPLE PROGRAM TOPICS

Assignments may include topics such as:

• Beat-making and rhythm fundamentals;

• Looping, sampling, and layering sounds using approved resources;

• Melody, harmony, chord progressions, and song structure;

• Recording vocals or instruments where equipment and assignment scope permit;

• Audio editing, arranging, and sequencing;

• Basic mixing concepts, including levels, balance, panning, and effects;

• Exporting, sharing, and presenting completed music projects; and

• Creativity, collaboration, digital citizenship, and responsible use of music technology.

Specific software platforms, recording equipment, curriculum, and project requirements vary by assignment.

QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred qualifications include:

• At least 60 college credits, where required by the applicable assignment or site;

• Experience using BandLab, Soundtrap, GarageBand, Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, or similar digital audio software;

• Experience teaching, tutoring, coaching, mentoring, or leading activities with school-age students;

• Strong communication, organization, classroom facilitation, and technology troubleshooting skills;

• Availability to provide services for the accepted assignment schedule and communicate schedule issues as soon as reasonably practicable; and

• Familiarity with Chromebooks, laptops, web-based applications, audio equipment, headphones, microphones, MIDI controllers, or related music-production technology.

Preferred backgrounds may include musicians, producers, audio engineers, DJs, composers, teaching artists, music technology students, recording professionals, music educators, and others with relevant instructional or creative experience.

MATERIALS AND RESOURCES

Assignments may utilize school-provided computers, Chromebooks, headphones, microphones, MIDI devices, digital audio workstations, curriculum resources, lesson plans, project guidelines, and other instructional technology where available.

Contractors may use their own instructional methods and materials when appropriate, safe, age-appropriate, lawful, properly licensed, and consistent with the assignment scope and site requirements.

Contractors are responsible for ensuring that any music, samples, loops, software, or instructional materials they introduce are appropriately licensed or otherwise authorized for educational use and comply with applicable copyright laws, platform terms of use, and school policies.

Purchases requiring reimbursement must be approved in writing by Concorde before they are incurred.

COMPENSATION

Compensation varies by assignment and agreed contractor terms. Many opportunities pay $50+ per completed instructional service hour with students.

Contractors may propose their desired compensation rate when applying. When proposing a rate, contractors should consider the overall assignment scope, including anticipated preparation, planning, commute, materials, schedule, and other business considerations.

Concorde may accept the proposed rate, decline the application, or provide a counteroffer based on the budget for the specific assignment.

Unless otherwise approved in writing, compensation is based on completed instructional service hours with students.

Payment for completed services is generally made by direct deposit on the fifteenth day of the month following the month in which services were completed, unless otherwise stated in the accepted assignment terms or required by applicable law.

APPLICATION AND ONBOARDING

Applicants selected to move forward may be invited to create a contractor profile and complete any required onboarding steps.

Applying, interviewing, receiving an invitation to create a profile, creating a profile, or completing onboarding does not guarantee selection, placement, or future assignment opportunities.

Potential assignments are subject to assignment fit, agreed compensation, completion of required onboarding, applicable background-check review, Fair Chance or pre-adverse action procedures where required, site-specific clearance requirements, and final written confirmation from Concorde Education.

Some assignments may require background-check authorization, fingerprinting, agency clearance, site-specific documentation, identification badges, or other compliance steps before services may begin.

Applicants should not provide criminal-history information unless and until requested through the appropriate legally compliant process.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Concorde Education considers contractor applicants without regard to any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law and is committed to respectful, inclusive, and student-centered programming.