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Music Library Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Music Librarian

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$92K/yr

Formal education in classical music and previous music library experience, including practical knowledge of orchestral performance practices, music notation and terminology, professional catalogue ...

The applicant shall continually upgrade and maintain the music library and songs used in the worship service. * The applicant shall ensure that all facilities and musical equipment are properly ...

Music Student Worker

Nashville, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $15.25/hr

Job Duties: To staff the Music Library in the evenings To provide tutoring for homework To provide access to practice venues in the School of Music To manage music equipment and set up classroom ...

Position Information Position Title Music Librarian Department Music Responsibilities Duties include the management and organization of the sheet music libraries for the wind ensemble, choirs, and ...

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Music Library information

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$28.5K

$73K

$124K

How much do music library jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for music library in the United States is $72,983.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $85,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Music Librarian, you need expertise in musicology, library science (often with an MLIS degree), and cataloging standards for music collections. Familiarity with integrated library systems (ILS), digital archives, and music-specific cataloging tools like MARC and RDA is typically required. Excellent organizational abilities, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help in managing collections and assisting patrons. These competencies ensure accurate music resource management, accessibility, and effective support for musicians, researchers, and the public.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a music library, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a music library often face challenges such as cataloging diverse formats (scores, recordings, digital files), staying current with rapidly changing music technology, and managing user requests from a wide variety of patrons (students, faculty, performers). Addressing these challenges often involves ongoing professional development, collaborating closely with IT departments, and implementing efficient digital cataloging systems. Additionally, strong interpersonal skills and adaptability help music librarians respond effectively to the evolving needs of their users.

What is a Music Library?

A music library is a collection of recorded music, sheet music, or related resources that is organized and maintained for easy access by musicians, researchers, or the general public. Music libraries can be found in academic institutions, broadcasting companies, and public spaces, serving as valuable resources for study, performance, and enjoyment. Music librarians manage these libraries, cataloging music, assisting users, and preserving rare or historical materials. Some music libraries also provide digital access to their collections, making music more accessible to a wider audience.

What is the difference between Music Library vs Music Archivist?

AspectMusic LibraryMusic Archivist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in music, library science, or related fieldRequires a degree in music, library science, or archival studies
Work EnvironmentLibraries, media companies, educational institutionsMuseums, archives, cultural institutions
Industry UsageUsed for organizing and providing access to music collectionsFocused on preserving and cataloging historical music collections
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare for roles involving music organization and accessPeople compare for roles involving preservation and archival work

While both roles involve working with music collections, a Music Library primarily manages and provides access to music resources in libraries or media companies. A Music Archivist focuses on preserving and cataloging historical music collections in archives or museums. The roles overlap in credentials and work environment but differ in their primary focus—access versus preservation.

More about Music Library jobs
What cities are hiring for Music Library jobs? Cities with the most Music Library job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Library jobs? The most popular types of Music Library jobs are:
What states have the most Music Library jobs? States with the most job openings for Music Library jobs include:
Music Librarian

Music Librarian

New York City Ballet

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$92K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 hours ago


Job description

New York City Ballet is one of the foremost dance companies in the world, with a roster of spectacular dancers and an unparalleled repertory. Founded in 1948 by George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, New York City Ballet quickly became world-renowned for its athletic and contemporary style. Widely acknowledged for its enduring contributions to dance, New York City Ballet is committed to promoting creative excellence and nurturing a new generation of dancers and choreographers.
NYCB's musical repertory is a broad collection of works both written for the ballet and not, including canonical works of the orchestral, chamber and solo music repertory to new music commissioned by the company. Frequently performed ballets are set to music by Bach, Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, Strauss, Hindemith, Shostakovich, Philip Glass and John Adams.
Reporting to the Music Director, the Music Librarian is responsible for maintaining the company's extensive collection of music performance and reference materials. This is a full-time, salaried, exempt position covered by the American Federation of Musicians Local 802 collective bargaining agreement. The hours of work will vary according to performance schedules and will require flexibility to meet the company's seasonal demands.
This position offers an opportunity to participate in a uniquely challenging and exciting artistic environment while working with music of all periods and genres.
Application Requirements:
  • Applications will be accepted through May 29, 2026.
  • A one-page resume and a representative work sample are required to apply.
  • A select number of highly qualified applicants will be invited to complete an at-home practical skills assessment, which will commence June 1, 2026, upon email distribution of the assessment materials.
  • The assessment must be completed and returned on or before June 7, 2026, according to the instructions provided.

Primary Responsibilities:
Duties include timely preparation and distribution of music for all company activities including performances in New York City, tours, special events, and contracted services; maintaining an accurate and up-to-date inventory of musical materials; managing archival and conservation concerns; computer engraving of music and supervising the Performance Librarian who distributes materials for orchestra performances.
Minimum Requirements:
  • Formal education in classical music and previous music library experience, including practical knowledge of orchestral performance practices, music notation and terminology, professional catalogue management and materials conservation.
  • Knowledge of the orchestral repertory (specific knowledge of the ballet repertory is not required).
  • Strong organizational and interpersonal skills, adaptability, extraordinary attention to detail, and self-
  • The ability to assess workflow, anticipate additional staffing needs, delegate tasks efficiently, and work collectively in high-pressure situations.
  • The ability to respond efficiently and effectively under the pressure of production deadlines to late-stage changes required by choreographers and composers during the creation of new ballets.
  • Proficiency in Dorico and/or Sibelius, Microsoft Office applications, and OPAS.

Work Environment
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently exposed to office, rehearsal studio, and theatrical settings including stages, orchestra pits and backstage environments.
Physical Demands
The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the minimum requirements of this position. They include lifting/carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds, often from overhead shelves; climbing stairs and maneuvering safely in confined and darkened spaces that may have uneven floor surfaces and contain an array of theatrical, electrical and musical equipment and high levels of physical activity.
Other Duties
The following job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
EEO Statement
New York City Ballet is proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of recruiting and employment. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, citizenship status, disability, pregnancy, creed, genetic predisposition or carrier status, military status or veteran status, status as a victim of domestic violence, unemployment status, familial status, sexual violence or stalking victim status, caregiver status, arrest or conviction record to the extent required by applicable law, credit history or any other characteristic protected by law.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
New York City Ballet, one of the foremost ballet companies in the world, pursues the highest levels of artistic excellence and innovation. Therefore, we seek to attract, retain, and cultivate the most talented dancers, musicians, designers, stage technicians, and arts administrators. To this end, we are deeply committed to creating and sustaining an organizational culture that values and reflects inclusion, equity and access for all. We are inspired by our founders, George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, who envisioned an authentically American expression of ballet with a company that reflects the rich cultural diversity of this nation. In pursuit of their vision, we are committed to all by educating, developing, and supporting an organization that welcomes and amplifies the voices and lived experiences of everyone.