1

Music Director Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

About us Our Bach to Rock Music Schools in Wyckoff and Nanuet are fun, rewarding, and supportive music schools. Our goal is to teach students of all ages to play the music they love. We are seeking ...

About us Our Bach to Rock Music Schools in Wyckoff and Nanuet are fun, rewarding, and supportive music schools. Our goal is to teach students of all ages to play the music they love. We are seeking ...

Education Through Music is a non-profit organization that partners with New York City Public Schools to place music teachers and programs back into school's curricula. We are unique from other arts ...

Music Teacher

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$54K - $64K/yr

Education Through Music is a non-profit organization that partners with New York City Public Schools to place music teachers and programs back into school's curricula. We are unique from other arts ...

Under the supervision of the Director of Client Experience and Meaningful Life, the Music Specialist conducts individual resident/patient assessments to identify interests and needs, maintains ...

Music Therapist

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$66K/yr

Music Therapist DEPARTMENT: Youth and Community Development Services LOCATION: P.S. 297K Bedford ... Community School Director SALARY: $66,300 annually. Full-Time, 12-Month Position. Position is ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Music Director information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$12.7K

$49K

$79K

How much do music director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 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 rehearsals, and leading performances. They often collaborate with performers, arrange music, and ensure the quality of musical presentations, requiring strong leadership and musical skills. The role may involve conducting, arranging, and working with various musical genres or ensembles.

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 is essential, and many pursue certifications or advanced degrees to enhance their qualifications. Gaining experience through internships, assistant roles, or community projects can also help build a career in this field.

How likely is it to get a job as a music director?

The likelihood of securing a job as a music director depends on experience, networking, and the availability of openings in the industry. Candidates with strong leadership skills, music proficiency, and relevant certifications often have better prospects, especially in educational, religious, or entertainment settings. Competition can be high, but building a solid portfolio and gaining experience through internships or assistant roles can improve chances.

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 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:

High School Advisors 2026-2027

Hillside Public Schools

Hillside, NJ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Athletics/Activities
Date Posted:
6/9/2026
Location:
Hillside School District
Applications will be accepted for the following Advisors for Hillside High School for the 2026-2027 school year:
Academic Decathlon Assistant
Academic Decathlon Director
Art Club
Assistant Band Director
Audio Visual
Band Director
BioMedical Club
Book Club
Central Detention Alternate
Central Detention
Chess Club
Color Guard/Flag Advisor
Computer Club
Dance Ensemble
Debate Team Coordinator
DECA
Driver Education
Future Business Club
French Club
Freshman Class Advisor
Garden Club
GSA Club
Hiller
Student Council Government
International Club
Jazz/Orchestra
JETS
Junior Class Advisor
Math Club
MSA Club
My Brother's Keeper
My Sister's Keeper
National Honor Society
Hispanic Honor Society
One Thing Needed
Performing Arts Club
Play Director
Play Music Director
Play Set Designer
Poetry
Robotics
Saturday Detention
Science Club
Senior Class Advisor
Sophomore Class Advisor
Stage and Lighting
Summer Band Director
TV Production Advisor
World Language Club
Yearbook
Asst, Summer Band
All interested qualified candidates may apply by linking to: https://www.applitrack.com/hillsidek12/OnlineApp and successfully completing the application.
Qualifications:
Possess required certification
Salary:
Per H.E.A. agreement
All applications must be submitted on AppliTrack