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Music Director Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Music & Arts

Music Teacher Store 7610

Edison, NJ · On-site

$11.50 - $23/hr

At Music & Arts, we provide the tools and support for you to focus on what matters most: teaching and inspiring students. With robust benefits, a commitment to innovation, and opportunities to grow ...

Music & Arts

Music Teacher Store 7608

Ramsey, NJ

$29/hr

At Music & Arts, we provide the tools and support for you to focus on what matters most: teaching and inspiring students. With robust benefits, a commitment to innovation, and opportunities to grow ...

Music & Arts

Music Teacher Store 7604

Wayne, NJ

$27/hr

At Music & Arts, we provide the tools and support for you to focus on what matters most: teaching and inspiring students. With robust benefits, a commitment to innovation, and opportunities to grow ...

Music & Arts

Music Teacher Store 7607

Paramus, NJ

$30/hr

At Music & Arts, we provide the tools and support for you to focus on what matters most: teaching and inspiring students. With robust benefits, a commitment to innovation, and opportunities to grow ...

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All JobsMusic JobsMusic Director JobsMusic Director Jobs in Rutherford, NJ

Music Director information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$12.7K

$49K

$79K

How much do music director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for music director in Rutherford, NJ is $49,042.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $59,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 performances meet artistic standards, using skills in conducting, music theory, and leadership.

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.

How to become a music director?

To become a music director, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in music or a related field, along with extensive experience performing and conducting. Developing strong leadership, communication, and musical skills, as well as proficiency with musical instruments and software, is essential. Gaining experience through internships, assistant roles, or conducting smaller ensembles can also help advance to a music director position.

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.

What Do Music Directors 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.

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 does a Music Director do?

A Music Director is responsible for overseeing the musical aspects of a performance, ensemble, or organization. They select and arrange music, lead rehearsals, and guide musicians to achieve the desired artistic vision. Music Directors often work with orchestras, choirs, theaters, or media productions, coordinating with performers and other staff to ensure a cohesive and high-quality performance. Their role also includes interpreting musical scores, making creative decisions, and sometimes composing or arranging music.

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.

What is the highest paid job in music?

The highest paid jobs in music often include roles such as music executives, record label CEOs, and successful touring artists, with top executives earning several million dollars annually. Highly experienced music directors working in major orchestras or large productions can also earn substantial salaries, especially with additional bonuses and endorsements. These roles typically require extensive industry experience, strong leadership skills, and a network of professional connections.
More about Music Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Music jobs in Rutherford, NJ? The most popular types of Music jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What job categories do people searching Music Director jobs in Rutherford, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Music Director jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Music Director jobs? Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Music Director job openings:
Music Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Director job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,042 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Repertory Theater Music Director

Scotch Plains - Fanwood Public Schools

Scotch Plains, NJ • On-site

$2.5K/wk

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Athletics & Activities/Music Director
Date Posted:
4/14/2026
Location:
Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School
Date Available:
2026-2027 School Year
Closing Date:
07/31/2026
SALARY: As per Negotiated Amount of $2,500
REQUIREMENTS: Must have experience in drama and high school musicals.
Theater experience preferred. Responsible for teaching and
directing all of the actors on stage.
CERTIFICATION: NJ Instructional Certification
(Should the district not be able to fill the position with a certified
applicant, candidates who are eligible for a county substitute
certificate will be considered.)
Interested individuals should apply on-line @ www.spfk12.org.
Posting will remain open until position is filled.
Office of Human Resources
Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools
Evergreen Avenue & Cedar Street
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER/ADA
Attachment(s):
  • Co-Curricular Advisor
  • Co-Curricular Guide

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