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Music Directors Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Solomon Page

Director, Music Recruitment

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$76.10/hr

This position works closely with directors, producers, composers, artists, and internal studio partners to deliver high-quality, filmmaker-driven music for Company's theatrical releases. * Pay: $76 ...

VNA Health Solvang

Music Services

Solvang, CA · On-site

Provide music services to hospice patients in their home or nursing facility. In many ancient civilizations, one of music's primary purposes is healing. Today, scientific research has confirmed music ...

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Music Directors information

See California salary details

$12.3K

$47.5K

$76.5K

How much do music directors jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for music directors in California is $47,477.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $57,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Music Directors vs Conductors?

AspectMusic DirectorsConductors
CredentialsMusic degrees, certifications in conducting or performanceConducting certifications, music degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentRehearsals, planning, overseeing performancesLeading live performances, rehearsals with orchestras or ensembles
Employer & Industry UsageOrchestras, choirs, musical theater, churchesOrchestras, bands, choirs, opera companies

Music Directors typically oversee the artistic vision and management of musical groups, including selecting repertoire and guiding performances. Conductors focus on leading live performances and rehearsals, often working directly with musicians during concerts. While both roles require musical expertise and conducting skills, Music Directors have broader responsibilities including administrative duties, whereas Conductors primarily focus on performance 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 markets or for those with extensive experience and strong reputations. Many also supplement income through additional performances, teaching, or freelance work.

How to get a job as a music director?

To become a music director, candidates typically need a strong background in music, often with a bachelor's degree in music or a related field. Gaining experience through conducting, arranging, or performing, along with developing leadership and communication skills, is essential. Building a professional network and demonstrating proficiency with musical software and rehearsal techniques can also improve job prospects.

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 musical quality meets the project's standards. Strong leadership, conducting skills, and music knowledge are essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Music Directors jobs in California?

For Music Directors jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Music Directors jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Directors jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Music Directors jobs?

Cities in California with the most Music Directors job openings:

Music Directors jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Directors job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,477 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Mainstage Music Director (Part-Time)

I Can Do That! Performing Arts Center

Danville, CA • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Mainstage Music Director (Part-Time) for Musical Theatre

Organization: ICDT!

Position Type: Part-Time

Hours: 2-4 hours/week (rehearsals are Tues/Thurs between 4-6pm)

Pay Rate: $25-$30 per hour, commensurate with experience


About ICDT!

ICDT! is a youth-focused performing arts center dedicated to creating inclusive, high-quality theatre experiences for young performers and our community. We value collaboration, creativity, and hands-on learning, and we strive to create a safe, supportive environment both onstage and behind the scenes.


Position Overview

ICDT! is seeking a passionate, collaborative, and experienced Music Director to lead the musical direction of our Mainstage productions. This part-time, hourly position plays a vital role in advancing the organization's mission to provide high-quality theatrical training and performance opportunities for young artists.

The Music Director is responsible for teaching vocal music, including harmonies and ensemble work, supporting healthy vocal development, and ensuring musical excellence in performance. Mainstage productions are casts of approximately 50 students ages 14-18. The Music Director will work closely with the Director to deliver high-quality musical theatre productions while fostering growth and confidence in young performers.


Responsibilities

Musical Direction & Instruction

  • Teach all vocal music, including harmonies, to cast members.
  • Lead music rehearsals, including vocal warm ups.
  • Provide age-appropriate vocal technique instruction and coaching.
  • Ensure accurate musical interpretation and ensemble cohesion.

Production Collaboration

  • Create music learning materials, including harmony tracks
  • Collaborate closely with the Director to align with staging and vision
  • Adjust intricate harmonies to align with cast abilities (simplify or adjust parts as needed to fit vocal ranges and abilities)
  • Attend final dress rehearsal and provide notes to cast.

Qualifications

  • Demonstrated experience in musical theatre music direction.
  • Strong piano proficiency.
  • Ability to teach harmonies clearly and build a strong ensemble sound.
  • Knowledge of healthy vocal technique for developing voices.
  • Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
  • Energy, patience, flexibility, and a collaborative spirit.
  • Ability to pass background screening requirements, if applicable.

Preferred (but not required)

  • Prior experience working on youth theatre or educational productions
  • Experience teaching youth performers
  • Bachelor's degree in Music, Musical Theatre, Music Education, Vocal Performance, or related field.
  • Experience teaching and building multi-part harmonies (2-4 part ensemble work).
  • Ability to arrange or adapt vocal parts to suit cast strengths.
  • Familiarity with rehearsal tracks, click tracks, or music notation software (e.g., Finale, Sibelius, MuseScore) and ability to assist with basic music editing or track preparation when needed.
  • Strong classroom management skills in a group rehearsal environment.
  • Previous collaboration with directors and choreographers in a production setting.


Schedule

The Music Director would be needed at Tuesday/Thursday rehearsals from 4-6pm. Additional hours during final dress rehearsal and performance week may be needed.


Compensation

This is a part-time position, approximately 2-4 hours per week, paying $25-$30 per hour, depending on experience.


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