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Music Composition Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Seattle Hockey Partners, LLC

Electrician

Seattle, WA

$28.50 - $39/hr

The arena is home to the NHL's Seattle Kraken, WNBA's Seattle Storm, PWHL Seattle and the world's biggest performers of live music and events. The arena is named after The Climate Pledge, an ...

DigiPen

Adjunct Faculty - Fine Arts (Evergreen)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$4.7K - $7.9K/wk

... Music, Computer Engineering, and Digital Art and Animation, as well as Master's degree programs in ... Tone, color, and composition * Perspective * Other courses as needed This is an ongoing posting.

All JobsMusic Composition JobsMusic Composition Jobs in Seattle, WA

Music Composition information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$34.7K

$65.7K

$138.3K

How much do music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition in Seattle, WA is $65,700.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $72,800.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Music Composition jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Music Composition jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Music Composition jobs in Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Music Composition jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Composition jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Music Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Composition job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, 25% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,700 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Open World Staff - Instructor & Event Support, F26-S27

DigiPen Institute of Technology

Redmond, WA • On-site

$30/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Located in Redmond, Washington, DigiPen Institute of Technology is a small college that offers undergraduate degree programs in Computer Science, Game Design, Digital Audio and Music, and Digital Art and Animation, as well as Master's degree programs in Computer Science and Digital Art. DigiPen Institute of Technology has been ranked one of the top 5 game design schools in the country by the Princeton Review for more than a decade. To learn more, visit: https://www.digipen.edu/ .
DigiPen also provides learning opportunities for elementary and secondary-level students to learn, create, collaborate, and experience the digital world through curricula and instructors that meet DigiPen's stringent requirements.
Job Title: Open World Staff - Instructor & Event Support, F26-S27
Reports to: David Robson, Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Open World is looking for part-time, temporary Instructors and Event Producers to lead our event and summer workshops, working with a co-teacher to introduce students to STEAM fields and create an engaging, supportive, and fun learning environment. We are looking for enthusiastic, kind, and professional candidates who enjoy working with kids.
About Open World
Our Philosophy: Every child who attends our workshops should come away feeling engaged by our instructors and industry guests, excited to share what they learned and created, empowered with the skills to continue creating, and cared for by every member of our team.
Open World Core Values
  • Exploration - Students discover and dive deep into new fields.
  • Problem Solving - Activities build skills that extend beyond our programs.
  • Industry Connection - Students meet and learn from real industry professionals.
  • Care - Every student feels seen and supported.
  • Fun - Focus on enjoyable, inspiring experiences over rigid academic outcomes.

Who's on the team?
In addition to student staff, there are four year-round Open World team members:
  • Emily Kirby, VP of Open World
  • David Robson, Director of Curriculum and Instruction
  • Brittan Rosa, Assistant Director for Marketing
  • Emily Collins, Operations Manager

Before you apply, please review the following information:
Schedule & Commitment
  • Afterschool Programs - Up to 10 hours/week during the school year.
  • Monthly Events - Up to 10 hours/month.
  • Curriculum Development - Up to 20 hours/week
  • Other Events - Additional hours as needed for community, outreach, or industry events.

Expected hours per week: minimum 20 hours
Locations & Hours
  • Locations: DigiPen Institute of Technology (Redmond, WA) and other nearby locations as scheduled
  • Hours: Afternoon/evening schedules for afterschool programs and events.
  • Hours vary based on program and event needs.

Essential Functions
  • Work with a co-teacher for K12 afterschool sessions, monthly events, and special activities.
  • Leads a small team to provide student support in and outside of the classroom, including organizing and distributing classroom supplies, leading activities and games, and supervising transition and break times.
  • Engage students through interactive, hands-on learning.
  • Maintain a safe, productive, caring, and fun environment for all.
  • Communicate professionally with parents, students, and team members.
  • Help answer questions from students and parents.
  • Adapt to changing student needs and support all learners.
  • Assist in set-up, breakdown, and preparation of activities.
  • Track and report time worked.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Required Skills:
  • Knowledge in one or more: computer science, art/animation, game design, robotics, music/sound design, or related fields.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with co-teachers and other team members.
  • Strong communication and organization skills.
  • Ability to engage and connect with children and teens.
  • Ability to provide a supportive experience to all students and adapt to changing student support needs.
  • Completed high school.

Bonus Skills/Attributes:
  • Experience with K-12 students.
  • CPR/First Aid certification.
  • Leadership, teaching, or event-planning experience.
  • Strong attention to detail.

Additional Knowledge (Highly Recommended)
  • Art & Animation: fundamentals (perspective, shading, form, color theory), 2D/3D animation production.
  • Game Design: principles, Unity, Unreal, core programming concepts and high-level languages (C#, Block-coding, JavaScript).
  • Music & Sound Design: theory, composition, sound design, digital audio workstations.
  • Programming: fundamentals, game/software development, competence with programming languages (C#, C++, JavaScript, Python)
  • Robotics: Lego/VEX kits, motor/sensor programming, core engineering principles.

Compensation
  • $20/hour starting rate.
  • Returning staff with prior K-12 program experience at DigiPen: up to $30/hour.
  • Not benefits-eligible.

Application requirements
  • Applicants need to provide a resume and cover letter

Working Conditions
  • May involve lifting, carrying, stooping, kneeling, pushing, and/or pulling.
  • Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs.
  • Must pass criminal background check and 5-panel (non-THC) drug screen.

Expected dates of employment: August 31, 2026 - June 4, 2027
Expected number of hours per week: 20 hours
Equal opportunity is a priority of DigiPen Institute of Technology, as the institution is committed to fostering a positive learning environment for all. The Institute's intent is to hire the most qualified individuals for faculty and staff, attracting candidates from diverse backgrounds of race and ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, veteran status, nationality, culture, religion, and physical abilities. We are committed to broadening our candidate pool to include more diverse individuals and ensuring fairness in hiring by avoiding bias and determining criteria to judge all candidates prior to posting each new position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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