1

Music Conductor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Conductor

Los Altos, CA · On-site

$49K - $57K/yr

The AC is a dynamic choral conductor, expert teacher, and passionate educator with an excellent ... Bachelor's degree in music education, choral conducting, or music performance, or the equivalent

Assistant Conductor

Los Altos, CA · On-site

$49K - $57K/yr

The AC is a dynamic choral conductor, expert teacher, and passionate educator with an excellent ... Bachelor's degree in music education, choral conducting, or music performance, or the equivalent

Works with Colburn Music Directors, Ensemble Directors, Artistic Staff and visiting conductors, to research, negotiate and procure (via purchase, rental, commission, or lending), prepare, and ...

Works with Colburn Music Directors, Ensemble Directors, Artistic Staff and visiting conductors, to research, negotiate and procure (via purchase, rental, commission, or lending), prepare, and ...

Provide accurate musical support for note learning. * Prepare practice part files. * Collaborate closely with the conductor in repertoire preparation,. * Participate in dress rehearsals, concerts ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Music Conductor information

See California salary details

$5

$23

$47

How much do music conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for music conductor in California is $23.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.54 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges music conductors face when leading an orchestra or ensemble?

Music Conductors often face the challenge of uniting musicians with varying skill levels and backgrounds to achieve a cohesive interpretation of a score. Effective communication and time management are essential, as rehearsals must be productive and focused to prepare for performances. Conductors must also balance artistic vision with the practical aspects of working with diverse personalities and resolving any conflicts within the ensemble. Additionally, adapting to different venues and acoustics can require quick adjustments to ensure the music sounds its best.

How do you become a music conductor?

To become a music conductor, individuals typically pursue a bachelor's degree in music or a related field, gain experience as a musician or assistant conductor, and develop strong leadership, score-reading, and conducting skills. Many conductors also pursue advanced training or a master's degree in conducting and build a portfolio through performances with orchestras or choirs.

What does a music conductor do?

As a music conductor, your responsibilities are to guide an orchestra, band, or other instrumental ensembles in playing music, keeping tempo, and carrying out the composer’s vision for the musical piece. A conductor is somewhat of a liaison between a composer and the band or orchestra, ensuring that the band or orchestra adheres to the composer’s intent for a musical piece. Music conductors carry out their duties in school or community bands and professional orchestras. As a music conductor, you must have expert musical skills, including knowledge of how to play each instrument, the ability to read and interpret sheet music, and the ability to follow a rhythm.

What are the three main jobs of the music conductor?

The three main jobs of a music conductor are to interpret the musical score, lead rehearsals to prepare the orchestra or choir, and direct performances by signaling tempo, dynamics, and entries. Conductors also communicate artistic vision and ensure coordination among musicians during a performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a music conductor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Music Conductor, you need a deep understanding of music theory, score reading, and orchestral repertoire, typically demonstrated through advanced music degrees and extensive performance experience. Familiarity with music notation software, rehearsal techniques, and sometimes audio editing tools is often required. Leadership, clear communication, and the ability to inspire and unify musicians are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering cohesive performances, fostering ensemble collaboration, and interpreting musical works authentically.

What does a music conductor do?

A music conductor leads orchestras, choirs, or other musical ensembles during rehearsals and performances. They interpret musical scores, set tempos, cue musicians, and shape the overall sound of the performance. Conductors also collaborate with musicians to ensure that everyone is unified in their interpretation and timing. Their leadership is crucial for the coordination and emotional impact of the music.

What is the difference between Music Conductor vs Orchestra Musician?

AspectMusic ConductorOrchestra Musician
Required CredentialsMusic degree, conducting certification (optional)Music degree, instrument proficiency
Work EnvironmentLeading rehearsals and performancesPerforming as part of an ensemble
Employer & Industry UsageOrchestras, choirs, bandsOrchestras, ensembles, bands
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a Music Conductor directs and leads the ensemble, focusing on interpretation and coordination, while an Orchestra Musician performs on their instrument within the group. Conductors shape the overall sound, whereas musicians execute the conductor's vision during performances.

What are popular job titles related to Music Conductor jobs in California?

For Music Conductor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Music Conductor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Conductor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Music Conductor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Music Conductor job openings:

Infographic showing various Music Conductor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,369 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Assistant Conductor

AMS

Los Altos, CA • On-site

$49K - $57K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Cantabile Youth Singers of Silicon Valley is seeking an Assistant Conductor, Training Division Director for the 2026-2027 Season.

Position Overview

A member of Cantabile’s artistic team, the Assistant Conductor (AC) works closely with the Associate Conductor and reports to the Artistic Director. The AC is a dynamic choral conductor, expert teacher, and passionate educator with an excellent record of cultivating the vocal and musical skills of children ages 5-12 with diverse musical abilities, skills, and experience.

The AC is responsible for curriculum, administration, repertoire, and performance of Cantabile’s Training Division (singers ages 6-11). The AC plans, develops, and teaches the Training Division Summer Camp and manages Cantabile’s Fall Retreat. The AC acts as manager of off-site collaborations with professional arts organizations.

The AC will work a hybrid on-site (Los Altos, CA)/remote schedule. Rehearsals currently take place during the week, in the afternoon and evenings. Although Cantabile maintains regular business hours, rehearsals, performances, and other educational and concert programming often take place in the evenings and on weekends. The anticipated start date is July 15th, 2026.

Other responsibilities include working collaboratively with the Associate Conductor and Artistic Director to select repertoire; cultivating relationships and communicating with Cantabile families; communicating and working with the collaborative pianists and guest musicians; and modeling the skills necessary to be a professional performer.

Strong Candidates Will Possess the Following Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in music education, choral conducting, or music performance, or the equivalent
  • Minimum of three years of successful experience teaching music to children, and experience cultivating vocal and musical skills in students of elementary school age
  • Orff and Kodály training with successful teaching application
  • Exemplary personal musicianship, vocal and conducting skills, and classroom management
  • Intermediate keyboard/accompaniment skills
  • Experience in teaching a wide variety of music styles
  • Demonstrated ability to work collegially with children, parents, and organizational staff 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

  • Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously using professional judgment, discretion, and tact 

  • Administrative skills that include: music preparation, parent communication, registration, attendance, etc.

  • Intermediate proficiency in office software (Microsoft or Google), including email, word processing, and spreadsheets

Other Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience in an arts nonprofit organization. 
  • Experience integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion principles into organizational decision-making.
Physical Requirements

This position performs its duties in an indoor rehearsal and stage environment.  You must be able to perform the following duties with or without accommodation:

  • Stand, sit, kneel, walk, bend, and perform repetitive motions for the duration of an assigned shift.
  • Ability to regularly use multiple modes of transportation to travel to job-related meetings, rehearsals, performance and events, both nationally and internationally.
  • Traverse safely throughout each facility leased by Cantabile
  • Safely lift, move, and transport items weighing up to 25 lbs. in and out of vehicles.
  • Communicate in a clear speaking voice to instruct classes
Compensation & BenefitsThis is a full-time, exempt position, with an annual salary of seventy-one thousand to eighty thousand dollars ($71,000.00-$80,000.00) to be paid in bi-monthly installments, plus an additional stipend of six thousand dollars ($6,000.00) annually in lieu of benefits, ten Cantabile holidays, ten days vacation accrual, and sick time accrual. The position is eligible for two thousand dollars ($2,000.00) per year in professional development courses, seminars, or training, and for thirty dollars ($30.00) per month as reimbursement for use of the employee’s personal cellular phone. A background check is required. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US and must have US residency. Cantabile will continue to make appropriate deductions for taxes and other payments in accordance with federal and state laws. This is also an at-will position; either the employee or Cantabile may terminate employment with or without notice.How to Join the Cantabile Team

Please apply by visiting our applicant website here. Please include a cover letter, resume, a short performance and rehearsals video link, and a copy of a recent concert program.

Due to our size and the increased demand for our services, we are unable to take phone calls about this position, nor sponsor visas at this time.

About the Organization

Serving over 200 students ages 6-18 in five tiered levels, Cantabile Youth Singers has been under the artistic direction of Elena Sharkova since 2004. Cantabile brings world-class artistic excellence in vocal music instruction to the youth of Silicon Valley by creating a supportive, enriching choral community for all, fostering the innate beauty, talent, and individual freedom of expression within each singer, and engaging them in performances of the highest caliber.

Recent accomplishments include performances at the ACDA National Conference in Kansas City, gold medals at the European Choir Games in Sweden, The Magic Flute and La Boheme with Opera San José, The Lord of the Rings, Carmina Burana, and Music of Studio Ghibli concerts with Symphony San Jose, concert tours of Australia and New Zealand, and the world premiere of the commission We Are the Garden by Jocelyn Hagen at Stanford’s Bing Concert Hall. 

EEO Statement

Cantabile believes that all individuals deserve to be always treated with respect and dignity. To that end, Cantabile provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Cantabile complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME