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Music Director Jobs in Addison, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Music Director information

See Addison, IL salary details

$12.5K

$48.2K

$77.6K

How much do music director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for music director in Addison, IL is $48,197.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,600.00 and $58,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a music director do?

A music or musical director leads an ensemble of musicians such as a band, orchestra, or in live performance, recordings, and film. Their responsibilities may include auditioning potential musicians, choosing or arranging music to perform, leading rehearsals, and conducting performances or recordings.

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

To thrive as a Music Director, you need a strong background in music theory, conducting, and performance, often supported by a degree in music or a related field. Familiarity with music notation software (such as Sibelius or Finale), digital audio workstations, and sound equipment is typically required. Outstanding leadership, communication, and organizational skills help you inspire and coordinate musicians effectively. These competencies ensure that musical ensembles perform cohesively and achieve high artistic standards in rehearsals and performances.

How does a music director typically collaborate with performers and other creative staff during a production?

A Music Director works closely with performers, choreographers, stage directors, and technical teams to ensure musical elements align seamlessly with the overall vision of a production. They lead rehearsals, provide artistic guidance, and often adjust arrangements or tempos based on the needs of the cast and staging. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as the Music Director must balance musical integrity with practical considerations and the input of various creative contributors.

What is the difference between Music Director vs Conductor?

AspectMusic DirectorConductor
CredentialsMusic degree, conducting experience, leadership skillsMusic degree, conducting skills, rehearsal experience
Work EnvironmentOrchestras, choirs, musical theater, churchesOrchestras, choirs, ensembles during performances and rehearsals
Industry UsageLeads artistic vision, selects repertoire, oversees performancesDirects rehearsals, leads performances, interprets music

While both roles involve conducting, a Music Director typically has broader responsibilities, including artistic planning and leadership, whereas a Conductor focuses primarily on leading rehearsals and performances. The Music Director often makes creative decisions and manages the ensemble's overall direction, making it a more comprehensive leadership role in the music industry.

How much do music directors get paid?

Music directors' salaries vary based on experience, location, and the type of organization they work for. According to industry data, the median annual wage for music directors is around $50,000 to $70,000, with higher earnings possible in larger organizations or with advanced credentials. Many also supplement income through freelance work, teaching, or conducting performances.

What do you do as a music director?

A music director oversees the musical aspects of a production, organization, or institution, including selecting repertoire, conducting performances, and managing musicians or choir members. They often collaborate with other staff, plan rehearsals, and ensure the quality of musical performances, requiring strong leadership and musical skills. The role may involve conducting, arranging, and sometimes composing music, with work hours often including evenings and weekends.

What qualifications do you need to be a music director?

A music director typically needs a bachelor's degree in music, music education, or a related field, along with extensive experience in conducting, arranging, or performing. Strong leadership, communication skills, and proficiency with musical instruments or software are also important. Some positions may require certifications or advanced degrees depending on the organization or genre.
More about Music Director jobs

What cities near Addison, IL are hiring for Music Director jobs?

Cities near Addison, IL with the most Music Director job openings:

Music Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Director job openings in Addison, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,197 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty - Class Pianist/Music Director and Sub Pool

Roosevelt University

Chicago, IL • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Rank
Adjunct Faculty
Track
Non-Tenure Track
Position Title
Adjunct Faculty - Class Pianist/Music Director and Sub Pool
Category
Adjunct
Posting Number
T000168
Location
Chicago
Open Date
02/18/2026
Close Date
Open Until Filled?
Yes
Job Type
Part-Time
Working Hours
Position Summary
Reflecting the ideals of its founders in 1945, Roosevelt University is a private, nonsectarian community of educators, scholars and learners committed to academic, creative and service excellence, who value differences in personal experiences and perspectives; ask difficult questions; and promote mutual understanding, inclusion, social consciousness and action toward social justice. Recognizing that difference broadens perspectives, Roosevelt University seeks and serves a diverse, promising student body from metropolitan Chicago and around the world. We invite you to contribute your talents to our community.
The Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA) at Roosevelt is comprised of three Conservatories: Music, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Theatre. Our faculty and staff maintain successful professional careers in their chosen fields alongside their commitment to training and educating our students in preparation to enter performing arts industries.
CCPA is looking for an instructor/pianist for musical theatre positions including: Production Music Director, Classroom Collaborative Pianist, Audition Coach, Audition Pianist, as well as substitutes in these areas. The salary for this position is based on $1,327.33 per credit hour, and classes and Music Director assignments ranges from 1-3 credit hours. Sub pay is prorated on this scale, based on the number of hours taught.
Title IX Contact Information: Federal Title IX policy requires that all colleges and universities make known the contact information for the person responsible for coordinating its efforts to comply with Title IX regulations. At Roosevelt University, the Title IX Coordinator is Natasha Robinson. Her office is located in the Auditorium Building of the Chicago campus, 430 S. Michigan Avenue, AUD 476B. She can be reached at 312-281-3245 or TitleIX@roosevelt.edu.
Do not contact this email address for inquiries about your job application; if you have questions, you may email hrquestions@roosevelt.edu
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Successful applicants will have a Bachelor's Degree and working experience as a musical theatre pianist, music director, vocal coach, or audition coach. Strong sight reading skills preferred.
Years of Experience Required
1-2 years of university level instruction and/or professional piano and musical theatre experience
Required Education
Bachelor's Degree
Certification/Licensure Required
Minimum Qualifications
Please see Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required section.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree in Music, Musical Theatre, or related professional experience.
Equipment Operated
Working Conditions
Normal climate-controlled office environment is provided. Occasional bending, stooping, lifting, pushing and/or pulling is required (typically less than 10-15 pounds).
Priority Application Instructions
Departmental Contact Information

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