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Music Preparation Jobs (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 ... Prepare lesson plans, curriculum and benchmarking for all students, report on the progress of ...

Prepare and perform music appropriate to the liturgical season, readings, and parish music guidelines. * Arrive prepared and on time for all scheduled rehearsals and liturgies. * Support the assembly ...

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Music Teacher (Ages 4-18)

Dedham, MA · On-site

$15 - $50/hr

Prepare students for performances, recitals, and live shows. * Communicate professionally with parents about student progress. * Collaborate with a supportive team of passionate music educators. We ...

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Music Teacher (Ages 4-18)

Dedham, MA · On-site

$15 - $50/hr

Prepare students for performances, recitals, and live shows. * Communicate professionally with parents about student progress. * Collaborate with a supportive team of passionate music educators. We ...

Prepare and perform music appropriate to the liturgical season, readings, and parish music guidelines. * Arrive prepared and on time for all scheduled rehearsals and liturgies. * Support the assembly ...

Prepare and perform music appropriate to the liturgical season, readings, and parish music guidelines. * Arrive prepared and on time for all scheduled rehearsals and liturgies. * Support the assembly ...

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Music Preparation information

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$20K

$54.5K

$84K

How much do music preparation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for music preparation in the United States is $54,498.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced in Music Preparation, and how can they be managed effectively?

Music Preparation professionals often face tight deadlines and last-minute changes from composers or conductors, which can make accuracy and attention to detail critical. Balancing multiple projects while ensuring all parts are correctly formatted and free of errors can be challenging. Effective communication with conductors, performers, and the rest of the music staff helps to clarify expectations and resolve issues quickly. Developing strong organizational skills and familiarity with notation software are also key to managing workload and delivering high-quality materials on schedule.

What is the difference between Music Preparation vs Music Copyist?

AspectMusic PreparationMusic Copyist
CredentialsMusic theory knowledge, music notation skillsMusic notation skills, attention to detail
Work EnvironmentStudios, production companies, composers' officesMusic studios, orchestras, freelance
Industry UsageCreating and editing scores, preparing partsTranscribing, copying, and printing sheet music

Music Preparation involves creating, editing, and formatting scores and parts using notation software, often for composers and producers. Music Copyists focus on transcribing and reproducing sheet music accurately, often by hand or with software. While both roles require music notation skills, Music Preparation emphasizes editing and digital work, whereas Music Copyists concentrate on precise copying and reproduction of existing music.

What is music preparation?

Music preparation involves creating clear, accurate, and professional sheet music for performers, conductors, and recording artists. This process includes tasks such as music copying, engraving, proofreading, and formatting scores and parts to industry standards. Music preparers work closely with composers, arrangers, and publishers to ensure that all musical notations are correct and easy to read, which is essential for successful rehearsals and performances.

Is 23 too late to start music production?

Music preparation as a job can be started at any age, including 23, since it primarily requires skills in music theory, software proficiency, and sound editing. Many successful music producers and professionals begin their careers later in life, and gaining experience with digital audio workstations (DAWs) and industry knowledge is more important than age. Starting at 23 can still lead to a successful career with dedication and skill development.

How to get into music production as a career?

Music preparation professionals often start by gaining knowledge of music theory, audio editing, and production software such as Pro Tools or Logic Pro. Building a portfolio through personal projects or internships and developing technical skills are essential steps to entering the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Music Preparation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Music Preparation, you need strong music literacy, score reading, and attention to detail, often supported by formal music education or experience in music copying and arranging. Expertise in music notation software such as Sibelius or Finale, and familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), are typically required. Excellent organizational skills, communication, and the ability to work under pressure distinguish top professionals in this field. These skills ensure accurate, timely preparation of scores and parts, which is critical for successful rehearsals, performances, and recording sessions.

What jobs can you do with music production?

With music production skills, you can pursue roles such as music producer, sound engineer, recording engineer, mixing engineer, mastering engineer, or composer. These jobs involve creating, recording, editing, and mixing music using digital audio workstations and audio equipment, often requiring technical knowledge and creativity.

What jobs can you get from studying music?

Studying music can lead to careers such as music teacher, performer, composer, music producer, sound engineer, and music therapist. These roles often require skills in performance, music theory, and audio technology, and may involve working in schools, recording studios, or live venues.
Infographic showing various Music Preparation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,498 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Music Teacher - General Music and/or Choir

Education Through Music Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

The Music Teacher - General Music and/or Choirworks closely with the Director of Programs as well as the Director of Community Affairs and Partnerships to ensure effective music education on a daily basis. Responsibilities include planning and implementing a comprehensive, sequential and standards-based music curriculum according to the ETM-LA model that serves all students and teaches musical literacy, practical musical skills, content knowledge, transferable skills and higher order thinking; leading meaningful performances in which students can apply learned skills and knowledge; building a music program that becomes an indispensable part of school culture and identity which connects to the broader school community.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Responsibilities:


  • Prepare and teach engaging, differentiated, age appropriate, grade specific music lessons with a clear and concise aim, based on the ETM-LA benchmarks
  • Guide student behavior and class management to maintain an optimal learning environment
  • Create an online environment that is visually engaging, responsive to student needs and organized
  • Serve as the in-school music faculty and will be the primary representative of ETM-LA's mission at the assigned school site(s)
  • Collaborate with academic teachers to integrate arts with the Common Core State Standards and throughout the school's curriculum and culture
  • Responsible for preparing and delivering all essential functions of the music program
  • Prepare weekly standards - based lesson plans aligned to ETM-LA benchmarks
  • Provide a positive and safe learning environment by establishing a clear and consistent classroom management plan according to ETM-LA training and school site policy
  • Commit to growing as a music teacher in order to be culturally responsive to our students and communities
  • Facilitate after-school music programs (where applicable)
  • Work with ETM-LA's administrative staff to assess the program and are required to attend mandatory paid training sessions throughout the year
  • Attend professional development trainings
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications:


  • Bachelor's degree (for internship, rising seniors at the undergraduate level acceptable)
  • Experience in music classroom teaching in general music and/or choir with evidence of success
  • Experience teaching groups of 15 or more elementary-and middle-school aged students
  • Experience and/or training in Orff, Kodaly and/or Dalcroze strongly desired
  • Possession of California single subject teaching credential in music or out of state equivalent preferred
  • Master's degree in music education desired
  • Access to a secured network and a laptop or PC to provide distance learning is highly preferred
  • Possession of a valid California Driver's License is preferred
  • Bi-lingual a plus (especially Spanish or Chinese)


Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:


  • Demonstrated knowledge and proven music skill/ability in voice, musical theater, and/or instrumental (Brass, Woodwind, Percussion, Orchestral Strings)
  • Specialized knowledge of specific musical repertoire and genres, particularly choral
  • Possess excellent music reading skills
  • Have excellent stage presence, oral and written communication
  • Possess strong interpersonal and collaborative skills
  • Proficient in online learning platforms (Zoom, Google Classroom, RingCentral, etc.)
  • Ability to think creatively and strategically
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to work well and enjoy working with children and being part of a collaborative team with other music teachers and school faculty
  • Ability to follow instructions
  • Strive and remain committed to the mission of the organization

Physical Abilities:


  • Lift and move musical equipment, materials and supplies
  • Clean the music room
  • Maintain inventory and secure classroom instruments, including ukuleles, guitars, replacing drum heads, proper storage, etc.

Pay & Work Schedule:


  • Teaching rate anticipated average hiring range (in-school): $27.00-$45.00 per hour; (after-school): $50.00 per hour. Dependent upon qualifications and experience; $25.00 per hour for lesson planning and training
  • Successful candidates will receive paid training in pedagogy, lesson planning and classroom management
  • Hours: Part-Time; 8:00 AM-3:00 PM [number of hours worked per week will vary dependent upon assigned school site(s)]

General Information:


  • Interested candidates should submit a one-page cover letter (400 words maximum) and a one-page current resume, along with the following:
    • Two (2) sample lesson plans: one general music lesson (Grades K, 1 or 2); one general music lesson (Grades 3, 4 or 5)
    • Names and contact information of three (3) professional references
    • Application
    • Copy of Transcript (Official Transcripts may be required upon hire) and Credential Copy (if applicable)


  • A live scan must be completed satisfactorily. Failure to satisfactorily complete the live scan may affect the application status of applicants
  • TB Test mandate. Failure to satisfactorily complete the TB Test with certificate of tuberculosis clearance may affect the application status of applicants
  • The person holding this position is considered a 'mandated reporter' under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements as a condition of employment

ETM-LA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.