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Music Performance Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Music Teacher, Band Director

Itasca, IL · On-site

$44K - $45K/yr

We are looking for music educators to join our Music Education Services department for teaching ... Coordinate concerts, solo & ensemble activities, and other events and performances to engage with ...

Music Teacher, Band Director

Itasca, IL · On-site

$44K - $45K/yr

We are looking for music educators to join our Music Education Services department for teaching ... Coordinate concerts, solo & ensemble activities, and other events and performances to engage with ...

Music Teacher, Band Director

Itasca, IL · On-site

$44K - $45K/yr

We are looking for music educators to join our Music Education Services department for teaching ... Coordinate concerts, solo & ensemble activities, and other events and performances to engage with ...

Showing results 41-60

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 21, 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 voice and piano Chicago IL

Ensemble Performing Arts

Chicago, IL

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

About the Position

Ensemble Schools is seeking fun, experienced, and professional voice and piano substitute music instructors to teach at our Chicago area schools. We are looking for teachers who will instruct IN PERSON!

Substitute teachers will be contacted when there is a deficit in a main teacher's schedule but consistency is appreciated by both students and school staff, and preference will be given to candidates with greater availability.

Are schools are located in these cities:

  • Northbrook (Christopher Laughlin School of Music)
  • Schaumburg (Schaumburg Music Academy)
  • Naperville (Musical Expressions)
  • Orland Park (The Music Connection)
  • Palatine (The Music Room)
  • Geneva (Hix Brothers Music School)
  • South Elgin (Music Education Centers)
  • Rogers Park and Norwood Park (Flatts & Sharp Music Company)
  • Bucktown (Bucktown Music, Inc.)

Successful candidates will have a strong music background evidenced by a degree in music performance, music education, 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. A 401(K) program with employer matching is available to all of our employees after 90 days on the job. Health benefit packages are available for all part- and full-time employees at Ensemble. Reliable substitute teachers are often considered for promotion to fully rostered teacher status.

About Ensemble Schools

Ensemble Schools is a partnership of community-driven music & dance schools that maintain individual identities but share resources to ensure their mutual success.

https://www.ensembleschools.com ****

**Who We Are
** Our mission is to provide excellence in arts education through excellence in administration. 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!

Contact Info

To apply for this position, please send a resume and brief cover letter to Anna Ahrens through this portal. Diversity is a strength of our artistic community and we invite all those meeting the above criteria to apply.

Job Type: Employee

Pay: $27-$30 per hour