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Music Curator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This role sits at the intersection of music, culture, and business, requiring someone who can ... Lead the curation and programming strategy for Candlelight concerts across the United States

This role sits at the intersection of music, culture, and business, requiring someone who can ... Lead the curation and programming strategy for Candlelight concerts across the United States

Bespoke Itinerary Curation: Coordinate exclusive, hyper-local experiences and itineraries unique to ... Music Curation & Booking: Curate and book live music acts by researching artists, negotiating ...

Bespoke Itinerary Curation: Coordinate exclusive, hyper-local experiences and itineraries unique to ... Music Curation & Booking: Curate and book live music acts by researching artists, negotiating ...

Curator, Public Programming Job Status: Full-time Job Summary: Under limited supervision, the ... Advanced concepts, principles and practices of creating and delivering public programming and music ...

Curator, Public Programming Job Status: Full-time Job Summary: Under limited supervision, the ... musical events, film screenings, festivals, panels and lectures • Contact artists, musicians ...

Museum Curator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$62K - $68K/yr

... music for exhibits. * May coordinate and schedule public programs including tours, lectures ... of curatorial experience in the fields of art, history or museum collections; and To include two ...

... needs; select music for exhibits. May coordinate and schedule public programs including tours ... of curatorial experience in the fields of art, history or museum collections; and To include two ...

Curator, Public Programming Job Status: Full-time Job Summary: Under limited supervision, the ... musical events, film screenings, festivals, panels and lectures • Contact artists, musicians ...

Music Instructor

Bensenville, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Comfortable curating age-appropriate songs and lesson materials * Ability to motivate and energize students of all skill levels and ages * Background or degree in Music or Performing Arts highly ...

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Music Curator information

See salary details

$25.5K

$72.6K

$119.5K

How much do music curator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for music curator in the United States is $72,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How can I become a music curator?

To become a music curator, you typically need a strong knowledge of music genres and history, often gained through a degree in music, arts, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or working in music libraries, radio stations, or record labels can also help build relevant skills. Familiarity with music streaming platforms and digital tools is beneficial for selecting and organizing music collections.

How do Music Curators typically collaborate with artists, record labels, and streaming platforms in their daily work?

Music Curators regularly interact with artists and record labels to discover new releases, secure promotional materials, and stay updated on emerging trends. They also work closely with streaming platforms or radio stations to design and update playlists that align with audience preferences and brand identity. Effective communication and relationship-building are essential, as curators often negotiate for exclusive content, participate in feedback loops on listener engagement, and ensure their selections reflect both artistic quality and commercial appeal.

What Does a Music Curator Do?

As a music curator, your job is to select and organize music for your employer. In this role, you may help create a soundtrack for an event, manage a music brand, create a playlist featuring a genre that appeals to a specific customer demographic, or otherwise evaluate the entertainment value and composition quality for an artist or song. Music curators frequently decide which songs to include on a platform, manage databases of content, respond to content requests, and help program algorithms to suggest content. You can focus on a specific genre or part of the industry, such as rock music, religious music, or children's music.

Do curators make money?

Music curators can earn varying salaries depending on their experience, location, and the organization they work for. Salaries typically range from entry-level pay to higher wages for experienced professionals, with some working freelance or on a project basis. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance or access to industry events.

What does a curator do in music?

A music curator selects, organizes, and manages music content for platforms such as radio stations, streaming services, or events. They analyze trends, listen to new releases, and create playlists or programs that appeal to specific audiences, often using music management tools and industry knowledge.

What is the difference between Music Curator vs Music Programmer?

AspectMusic CuratorMusic Programmer
CredentialsMusic knowledge, industry experience, sometimes music theory or related certificationsTechnical skills, music software proficiency, understanding of digital platforms
Work EnvironmentMusic events, streaming platforms, museums, galleriesRadio stations, streaming services, digital media companies
Industry UsageCurating playlists, exhibitions, music collectionsCreating and managing digital playlists, programming content schedules

While both roles involve working with music, a Music Curator focuses on selecting and organizing music for specific audiences or exhibitions, emphasizing artistic and cultural context. A Music Programmer, on the other hand, primarily manages digital content, creating playlists and scheduling music for platforms or broadcasts. Both roles require music knowledge, but their focus and work environments differ.

What does a music curator do?

A music curator is responsible for selecting, organizing, and presenting music for playlists, radio stations, events, or digital platforms. They analyze trends, research artists, and use their expertise to craft unique listening experiences tailored to specific audiences or themes. Music curators often collaborate with artists, labels, and other industry professionals to discover new music and ensure diverse, engaging selections. Their work is crucial for platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and museums or cultural institutions that feature music-focused exhibitions.

How much does a music curator make?

The average salary for a music curator ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the organization. Music curators working in large institutions or with specialized skills may earn higher salaries, and some positions offer additional benefits such as creative autonomy and access to industry events.

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

To thrive as a Music Curator, you need a deep knowledge of music genres, trends, and history, often supported by a background in music, media, or cultural studies. Familiarity with streaming platforms, music cataloging systems, and playlist curation tools like Spotify for Artists is typically required. Strong communication, creativity, and analytical skills help you understand audience preferences and craft compelling musical experiences. These skills ensure curated content resonates with diverse listeners, increases engagement, and supports brand or platform goals.
What cities are hiring for Music Curator jobs? Cities with the most Music Curator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Curator jobs? The most popular types of Music Curator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Music Curator jobs? The top employers for Music Curator jobs are:
What states have the most Music Curator jobs? States with the most job openings for Music Curator jobs include:

Senior Curator, Candlelight

FeverUp

New York, NY

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

About the Role

Candlelight is one of Fever's flagship Original Experiences, transforming iconic venues into immersive live music settings through a globally renowned series of classical, jazz, and contemporary tribute concerts. From historic churches and libraries to theaters, museums, and landmark venues, Candlelight has reimagined how audiences experience live music in more than 150 cities worldwide.

As we continue to expand across the United States, we are looking for a Senior Curator based in New York City to lead the artistic development and programming strategy for the U.S. market. This role sits at the intersection of music, culture, and business, requiring someone who can combine creative vision with analytical thinking to build programs that delight audiences and drive commercial success.
You will play a key role in identifying new musical concepts, developing artist relationships, scaling successful programs nationally, and shaping the future of one of the world's fastest-growing live entertainment experiences.

Responsibilities
  • Lead the curation and programming strategy for Candlelight concerts across the United States
  • Identify emerging trends, artists, and repertoire opportunities that resonate with local audiences while maintaining Candlelight's artistic standards
  • Fluency with classical music theory and harmony with experience reading orchestral scores; familiarity with contemporary music trends and other genres is highly valued
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with performers, arrangers, agencies, management teams, and music industry stakeholders
  • Collaborate closely with regional and global teams to pitch, develop, and launch new concert concepts
  • Partner with Marketing, Growth, and Operations teams to ensure programming decisions maximize audience engagement, ticket sales, and customer satisfaction
  • Evaluate program performance using data and customer insights, translating findings into actionable programming recommendations
  • Lead negotiations for music arrangements, licensing opportunities, and artist-related costs
  • Oversee auditions and talent evaluation processes to identify and onboard top-performing musicians and ensembles
  • Drive the expansion of successful programs into new U.S. markets through the development of scalable frameworks and best practices
  • Mentor and support junior curators while contributing to the overall growth of the Curation team
About You

We're looking for someone who combines a deep passion for music with strong commercial instincts and operational excellence.

Requirements

  • 4+ years of experience in music curation, programming, artist relations, or a related role within the live entertainment or music industry
  • Fluency with classical music theory and harmony with experience reading orchestral scores; familiarity with contemporary music trends and other genres is highly valued
  • Excellent knowledge of the U.S. music and live entertainment landscape
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
  • Strong analytical mindset with experience using performance data to inform creative and business decisions
  • Outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Demonstrated ability to take ownership, drive initiatives independently, and adapt quickly to changing priorities
  • Experience working cross-functionally with teams across different geographies and disciplines
  • Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills

Nice to Have

  • Experience in artist booking, talent management, concert production, or live event programming
  • Music arranging or orchestration experience
  • Familiarity with music licensing and rights management
  • Knowledge of DAWs and music production software
  • Existing network within the U.S. classical, jazz, or live music ecosystem
  • Experience leading or mentoring team members
Why Join Us?
  • Shape the artistic direction of one of the world's most successful live music experiences
  • Work with a global team of passionate music and entertainment professionals
  • Have a direct impact on programming decisions across major U.S. markets
  • Combine creativity, strategy, and data to influence millions of audience experiences
  • Join a fast-growing company where ownership, innovation, and ambition are celebrated
Benefits & Perks:
  • Opportunity to have a real impact in a high-growth global category leader
  • Attractive compensation package consisting of base salary and the potential to earn a significant bonus for top performance (total compensation of around 85-100k)
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 40% discount on all Fever events and experiences
  • Work in a location in the heart of Manhattan
  • Responsibility from day one with strong opportunities for professional growth
  • Great work environment with a young, international team of talented people to work with!
Our hiring process
  • A 30 min video call with one of our Talent Acquisition Team to better understand your career plan, assess cultural fit, and answer any questions you may have
  • A 60 min online test with three topics: logic, analytics, and written understanding
  • A 30 min interview with your future manager to assess fit and capabilities
  • A 45-60 min business case presentation (to be prepared in advance) to a small panel
  • On average, our process lasts ~4 weeks and offers usually follow within a week

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