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Music Conductor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... conductors, bandleaders, or music directors. * Compose, arrange, or adapt music as needed for performances or recordings. * Maintain and care for musical instruments and equipment. * Collaborate with ...

General Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135K - $145K/yr

The Grant Park Music Festival (the Festival) in Chicago, Illinois seeks a General Manager to join ... In partnership with the President and CEO, Artistic Director & Principal Conductor, and Chorus ...

... conductors, bandleaders, or music directors. * Compose, arrange, or adapt music as needed for performances or recordings. * Maintain and care for musical instruments and equipment. * Collaborate with ...

... conductors, bandleaders, or music directors. * Compose, arrange, or adapt music as needed for performances or recordings. * Maintain and care for musical instruments and equipment. * Collaborate with ...

... conductors, bandleaders, or music directors. * Compose, arrange, or adapt music as needed for performances or recordings. * Maintain and care for musical instruments and equipment. * Collaborate with ...

... conductors, bandleaders, or music directors. * Compose, arrange, or adapt music as needed for performances or recordings. * Maintain and care for musical instruments and equipment. * Collaborate with ...

... conductors, bandleaders, or music directors. * Compose, arrange, or adapt music as needed for performances or recordings. * Maintain and care for musical instruments and equipment. * Collaborate with ...

... conductors, bandleaders, or music directors. * Compose, arrange, or adapt music as needed for performances or recordings. * Maintain and care for musical instruments and equipment. * Collaborate with ...

... conductors, bandleaders, or music directors. * Compose, arrange, or adapt music as needed for performances or recordings. * Maintain and care for musical instruments and equipment. * Collaborate with ...

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Music Conductor information

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How much do music conductor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for music conductor in the United States is $23.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $27.40 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 to get a job as a music conductor?

To become a music conductor, individuals typically need a strong background in music performance, often holding a bachelor's or master's degree in music or conducting. Gaining experience through assistant conductor roles, participating in internships, and developing leadership and score-reading skills are essential steps. Building a professional network and demonstrating proficiency with orchestral or choir repertoire also improve job prospects.

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.

How much does a musical conductor make?

The average salary for a musical conductor varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $30,000 to $150,000 annually. Conductors working with major orchestras or in prominent venues tend to earn higher salaries, and many also supplement income through guest conducting and teaching roles.

What are the three main jobs of the music conductor?

The three main jobs of a music conductor are to interpret the musical score and set the tempo, to lead rehearsals and coordinate musicians, and to direct performances by ensuring timing and dynamics are maintained. Conductors also communicate artistic vision and facilitate collaboration among orchestra members. These roles require strong leadership, musical expertise, and conducting skills.

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.

How do you become a musical conductor?

To become a music conductor, individuals typically pursue a bachelor's degree in music or a related field, gain experience performing as a musician, and develop conducting skills through specialized training or mentorship. Many conductors also attend advanced conducting programs or earn a master's degree to enhance their expertise and credentials.

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 cities are hiring for Music Conductor jobs? Cities with the most Music Conductor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Conductor jobs? The most popular types of Music Conductor jobs are:
What states have the most Music Conductor jobs? States with the most job openings for Music Conductor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Music Conductor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 8% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,395 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
BCB Performance Library Graduate Assistant

BCB Performance Library Graduate Assistant

Berklee College of Music

Boston, MA • On-site

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Berklee College Of Music rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

358th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

In order to participate in Berklee Student Employment, a student must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Current student at Berklee College of Music or Boston Conservatory at Berklee.
  • Enrolled at least half-time in a degree, diploma, or certificate-seeking undergraduate or graduate program. Summer is the only semester in which a student can maintain employment without being enrolled. In this case, the student must be pre-registered for the upcoming fall semester. This exception does not apply to fall or spring semesters.
  • Have a valid United States Social Security Number (SSN).
  • Remain in "valid" Visa status as applicable.
  • A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA. Students in their first semester can work, even though they do not have an official GPA until the completion of their first semester.
  • Federal Work Study student may apply.
  • In good disciplinary standing.
  • Must be located in the U.S.
For complete program details, please go to our website: www.berklee.edu/se.
The Performance Library Graduate Assistant is a member of the Instrumental Studies department at the Conservatory. They work on a team in a leadership capacity under the direction of the staff Performance Librarian with additional oversight by the Chair/Assistant Chair of Instrumental Studies, assisting in the daily operations of the BCB Performance Library.
Please submit an application on Workday and work resume for consideration, applications without work resumes will not be considered. Cover letters are required.
General Statement of Job Functions
  • Prepare music for rehearsals, performances, and courses
  • Distribute, collect, and organize sheet music
  • Coordinate student library team in the preparation of materials
  • Assist the Performance Librarian in assessing and addressing the needs of the conductors and ensembles
  • Work in partnership with Performance Librarian and other staff to maintain a functional, orderly, and productive working environment in the Performance Library
  • Respond to general questions from students and faculty regarding part preparation and distribution status, or library-related ensemble issues
  • Attend concerts and rehearsals as necessary to oversee the distribution or collection of music
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Serve as lead library assistant, overseeing the performance library at times when Performance Librarian is not working
  • Process, prepare, distribute, collect, and generally administer sheet music for large instrumental ensembles on a schedule determined by the Performance Librarian and Department Leadership
  • Assist in all aspects of the music preparation, including but not limited to editing, proofreading, distribution, scanning, marking string parts, adding measure numbers and rehearsal systems, correcting errata, creating errata lists, adding cuts, edits, and inserts; repairing damaged parts/scores and assembling folders
  • Participate in the preparation of musical materials according to the requirements of the particular work and ensemble as assigned by the Performance Librarian
  • Maintain a clean and organized library environment
  • Complete opening and closing procedures such as locking and unlocking the library and assisting in managing lockers for the Instrument Library
  • Serve as a representative of the Performance Library by interfacing with conductors and faculty, over email and in person, to facilitate requests
  • Staff the library desk during open hours and be available to answer general questions and fulfill requests from students, staff, conductors and faculty
  • Loan out and check in instruments from the instrument library and take note of any repair needs
  • Assist the Performance Librarian in maintaining the Performance Library Ensemble Collection in its various locations
  • Assist in cataloging and filing music purchased for the Boston Conservatory ensembles, maintain accurate inventory, and ensure accurate security. Return ensemble music sets to shelves immediately following performances
  • Track all items borrowed from the library, i.e, individual parts, scores, reference materials; ensure their timely return
  • Maintain confidentiality in regards to music ensemble castings and administrative planning
  • Delivery and pickup of library materials from mailroom and other Boston Conservatory at Berklee buildings
  • In rare cases, take attendance for BCB ensemble rehearsals and concerts
  • Additional responsibilities, as determined in collaboration with your supervisor.
Qualifications and Skills
  • (Preferred) Experience with ensembles at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee
  • (Preferred) Interest and knowledge of music performance librarianship
  • Broad knowledge of music, including musical terms and foreign languages (French, Italian, and German)
  • Ability to build a strong relationship with and work successfully with faculty, conductors and division administration in a highly demanding and fast-paced environment
  • Ability to manage a small team of peer employees to ensure the smooth operation of the performance library
  • Knowledge of music theory, history, orchestration, transposition, and music notation conventions
  • Extraordinary attention to detail and strong organizational skills, including ability to handle multiple tasks and simultaneously and consistently meet deadlines
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently and under pressure
  • Collaborative spirit to work as part of a successful team
  • Good customer service skills as well as verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to handle issues, changes and mistakes in a graceful and respectful manner
  • Working fluency with Google Suite applications and macOS

Work Hours: 8-10+ per week
Hourly Rate: $19.57
Hiring Manager: Cassian Ramos

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