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Music Performance Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Individual and peer-based small group learning environments help to facilitate social and emotional growth, while students learn the fundamentals of music performance and theory, gaining confidence ...

Be Seen First

Individual and peer-based small group learning environments help to facilitate social and emotional growth, while students learn the fundamentals of music performance and theory, gaining confidence ...

Showing results 21-40

Music Performance information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20.6K

$56.1K

$86.5K

How much do music performance jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for music performance in Chicago, IL is $56,141.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,300.00 and $63,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a music performance?

A Music Performance job involves playing an instrument or singing before an audience, either live or in a recorded format. Musicians in this field may perform solo or as part of a group, such as an orchestra, band, or ensemble. These roles can exist in various settings, including concerts, theaters, recording studios, and even online platforms. Success in this career often requires technical skill, stage presence, and the ability to interpret and express music effectively. Many performers also engage in rehearsals, collaborations, and ongoing skill development to refine their craft.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in music performance?

To thrive in Music Performance, you need advanced musical proficiency with your instrument or voice, a solid understanding of music theory, and often formal training such as a degree or conservatory education. Familiarity with music notation software, audio recording equipment, and sometimes performance certifications can be important technical assets. Strong stage presence, collaboration, and adaptability are key soft skills that help performers engage audiences and work effectively with ensembles or production teams. Mastery of these skills ensures high-quality performances, professional growth, and the ability to meet the diverse demands of live or studio music settings.

What does a typical work schedule look like for a music performer?

Music performers often have varied schedules that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, especially when performing in concerts, theater productions, or gigs. In addition to performance times, rehearsals, recording sessions, and soundchecks are common parts of the weekly routine, sometimes requiring daytime or daytime availability as well. Balancing these commitments with ongoing personal practice time is essential for maintaining skill and preparedness. The dynamic nature of performance work means flexibility and strong time management are important for success and career longevity in this field.

How much do music performers make?

Music performers' earnings vary widely based on experience, location, and the type of performance. According to industry data, the median annual salary for professional musicians and singers is around $50,000, with top performers earning significantly more through concerts, recordings, and endorsements. Many performers supplement income through teaching, session work, or touring schedules.

What jobs can I do if I like music?

Jobs for those who like music include becoming a musician, singer, or performer, which involves live or recorded performances. Other options include music teacher, sound engineer, music producer, composer, or music therapist, all of which require specific skills, training, or certifications. These roles often involve working in studios, concert venues, or educational settings and may require proficiency with instruments, audio equipment, or music software.

What kind of job can you get with a music performance degree?

A music performance degree can lead to careers such as professional musician, music teacher, concert performer, session musician, or music director. These roles often require strong technical skills, performance experience, and sometimes additional certifications or teaching credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Music Performance jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Music Performance jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Music Performance jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Music Performance jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Music Performance jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Performance jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Music Performance jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Music Performance job openings:

Infographic showing various Music Performance job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, 62% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,141 per year, or $27 per hour.

Substitute Music Teacher - Chicago, IL

Ensemble Music Schools

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

About the Position
Ensemble Music Schools is seeking a fun, experienced, and professional substitute music teacher who is comfortable with piano, voice, or guitarto teach at Bucktown Music, our location in Chicago, IL. We are looking for teachers who will instruct in person.
Successful candidates will have a strong music background evidenced by a degree in piano or music performance, pedagogy, or equivalent performing experience, a demonstrated love of teaching, experience working with young musicians, a robust appreciation for punctuality, reliable transportation, and the ability to pass a routine background check.
Instructor pay is commensurate with experience and will be in the range of $28-32/hour. Health benefits options and a 401K with employer match are available for part- and full-time employees at Ensemble after 30 days of employment.
About Ensemble Music Schools
Ensemble Music Schools is a partnership of community-driven music schools that maintain individual identities but share resources to ensure their mutual success.
This posting is for Bucktown Music, an independent music school located in Chicago, IL. Bucktown Music prides themselves on providing fun, personalized, and professional music education to students of all skill levels in a positive and welcoming environment.
Learn more about us here: https://www.ensembleschools.co...
Who We Are
Our mission is to empower artists by safeguarding the businesses that love themโ™ก Our values include:
  • Stewardship: We are caretakers of our local businesses and communities, helping them thrive by making it easy for our teachers to cultivate an enriching learning experience for students.
  • Growth: Our teachers are integral to our success, and we are committed to their professional growth. As an ever-growing partnership of music and dance schools, we seek to increase the high-quality resources provided to our schools and teachers.
  • Stagehands: Our Shared Services team runs in the background to support our schools. By doing this, we champion our teachers and students to be the real stars of the show!

Please send a resume and brief cover letter to Andrell Robinson through this portal to apply for this position. Diversity is a strength of our fine arts community, and we invite all those meeting the above criteria to apply.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $28-32 per hour
Ensemble Performing Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status or disability status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with applicable law. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.