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Music Composition Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Noble Schools

Music Teacher SY26-27

Chicago, IL

Teach students the fundamentals of playing instruments, vocal techniques, and/or the theory behind music composition. * Promote Musical Literacy: Provide instruction that helps students grow their ...

St. Joseph Church, Bryan

Director of Music

Bryan, TX

Knowledge of Music Composition * Knowledge of the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church as passed down through tradition, sacred scripture and the documents of the church, including but not limited ...

Noble Schools

Music Teacher SY26-27

Chicago, IL

Teach students the fundamentals of playing instruments, vocal techniques, and/or the theory behind music composition. * Promote Musical Literacy: Provide instruction that helps students grow their ...

Diocese of Austin

Director of Music

Bryan, TX · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Knowledge of Music Composition * Knowledge of the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church as passed down through tradition, sacred scripture and the documents of the church, including but not limited ...

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 ...

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Music Composition information

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$30.5K

$57.7K

$121.5K

How much do music composition jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for music composition in the United States is $57,731.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $64,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in music?

The highest paying jobs in music often include roles such as music director, composer for film and television, or successful recording artist, with top executives in the industry also earning high salaries. These positions typically require advanced skills, industry experience, and sometimes significant networking or reputation to reach top earnings.

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.

What jobs are there in a music studio?

In a music studio, common jobs include music producer, sound engineer, recording technician, mixing engineer, mastering engineer, and session musician. These roles involve operating recording equipment, editing audio, and collaborating with artists to produce finished recordings. Skills in audio software and knowledge of acoustics are essential for many studio positions.

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 by industry, with opportunities in film, television, video games, advertising, and live performance. As technology advances, composers who are skilled in digital audio workstations and adaptable to different media tend to have better job prospects, though competition can be strong in certain sectors.

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 cities are hiring for Music Composition jobs? Cities with the most Music Composition job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Composition jobs? The most popular types of Music Composition jobs are:
What states have the most Music Composition jobs? States with the most job openings for Music Composition jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Music Composition jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Music Composition jobs are:
Music Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Composition job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,731 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Music Teacher SY26-27

Music Teacher SY26-27

Noble Schools

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Positions Available at:
  • Butler CP - Music Teacher
About Noble
Noble is Chicago’s highest-performing and largest network of public charter schools. Our 17 campuses and 1,680 employees currently serve 12,000 students, 99% of whom identify as persons of color, 90% of whom are from under-resourced communities, and 81% of whom are first-generation college attendees. Noble’s mission is to ensure that all students have equitable and positive school experiences that equip them to complete college and lead choice-filled lives. 
We are proud to be recognized nationally for college access and persistence. Noble supports more than 31,000 alumni, with 99% of Noble students accepted into college and historically almost 90% choosing to enroll.
Clear, Consistent and Connected
All staff at Noble are bound by three key principles that shape a strong and positive campus culture at Noble. 
  • Clear, Setting Clear Expectations:  Students, like all individuals, flourish when they have a clear understanding of boundaries and expectations. All Noble Schools staff should prepare and explain academic and behavioral expectations using easy-to-understand procedures, routines, and "what to do" directions in all spaces. 
  • Consistent, Maintaining Consistency in Responses:  Students experience a spectrum of emotions. While all emotions are valid, not all behaviors are productive. Consistency in how these behaviors are addressed helps to ensure fairness and provides students with the security of knowing that our campuses operate with a sense of justice and equity.
  • Connected, Building Positive Relationships:  Students, like all individuals, thrive when they feel a communal connection to their school and can rely on meaningful relationships with the adults at the school.  All Noble staff prioritize positive interactions and relationships rooted in the humanity and belonging of each student.
 
Key Responsibilities
  • Build Safe, Positive Spaces: Foster a structured and inclusive learning environment where students feel supported and confident to express themselves through music.
  • Create Dynamic Music Experiences: Develop or implement backward-planned curricula that teach students to read, write, and/or perform music.
  • Lead Instrumental and Vocal Ensembles: Guide students in band, orchestra, or choir performances, fostering teamwork and musical growth.
  • Develop Technical Skills: Teach students the fundamentals of playing instruments, vocal techniques, and/or the theory behind music composition.
  • Promote Musical Literacy: Provide instruction that helps students grow their understanding of the musical ensemble.
  • Cultivate Creativity: Encourage students to compose original pieces, explore different musical styles, and express their unique voices.
  • Ensure Academic Excellence: Use data and assessments to refine instruction and support student growth in musical proficiency.
  • Teach and advise an advisory, which typically meets daily, serving as the primary point of contact for families. At its core, advisory provides dedicated time for students to assess their progress toward promotion, foster relationships, and build a sense of community with their peers.

Ideal Qualifications
  • Passion for Music Education: You have a deep understanding of and enthusiasm for teaching music.
  • Classroom and Ensemble Expertise: You bring experience leading music classrooms, bands, choirs, or orchestras where students actively learn and perform.
  • Commitment to Equity: You’re dedicated to empowering students of color and fostering an anti-racist learning environment.
  • Advocate for Diversity: You incorporate diverse musical traditions and cultures into your teaching to inspire and engage students.
  • Proven Track Record: Your teaching leads to measurable student growth in musical skills and performance.

Minimum Requirements
  • A Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Music, or a related field
  • Proficiency in teaching Music
  • Eligibility to work full-time in the U.S.
  • Active Illinois Teaching License preferred

Why Join Noble?
At Noble Schools, we don’t just teach art; we cultivate creativity and imagination. You’ll join a community of educators committed to excellence and equity, with a mission to empower students to succeed and lead exemplary lives.
Compensation & Benefits
We strive to be the best place to work. We offer a predictable salary schedule for teachers, and our employee benefits are thoughtfully designed to support us in this ambition. Moreover, for professionals who do not currently hold an in use teaching license, the Noble Licensure Program offers a robust set of programs and corresponding financial benefits for teachers to obtain licensure while teaching at Noble. Compensations range is $60,000-$81,000
Statement of Non Discrimination
Noble is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, making all employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic or classification protected by law.