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Music Professor Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SPECIFICS The Penn State School of Music invites applications for a full-time, fixed-term, renewable Assistant Teaching Professor of Music: Bassoon, beginning Fall 2026. We seek an inspiring ...

... Professor of Art History (Generalist) for a 1-year term, with possibility of renewal. Beginning ... Stuckeman School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture, the School of Music, the School of ...

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Music Professor information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$47.1K

$55.3K

$62K

How much do music professor jobs pay per year?

As of May 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for music professor in Pennsylvania is $55,307.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $59,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Music Professor Do?

A music professor teaches courses such as vocal and instrumental music, composition, music theory, and performance music to students of all ages. In addition to teaching classes, you may coach students in one-on-one sessions or provide private lessons to students who want to advance their musical abilities. To become a music professor at a community college, you typically need at least a master’s degree in music education or a related field and relevant teaching experience. If you want to teach at the university level, you must have a master’s degree or a doctorate in a music-related subject. Additional qualifications include strong interpersonal and communication skills, extensive knowledge of music-related topics, and the ability to perform music.

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

To thrive as a Music Professor, you need advanced musical proficiency, a graduate degree (often a doctorate), and expertise in music theory, history, and performance. Familiarity with music notation software, digital audio workstations, and classroom technology is typically required. Strong communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help foster student development and effective instruction. These abilities ensure high-quality teaching, student engagement, and ongoing contributions to academic and artistic communities.

What opportunities for research and creative projects are available to Music Professors, and how do these contribute to career advancement?

Music Professors often have access to a range of research and creative project opportunities, such as composing new works, conducting ensembles, publishing scholarly articles, or presenting at conferences. Engaging in these activities not only enhances personal and professional growth but also contributes to the professor’s reputation and eligibility for tenure or promotion. Many institutions encourage collaboration with colleagues and students, fostering a vibrant environment for innovation. Active participation in research and creative endeavors is seen as a key factor in career advancement within academia.

What are Music Professors?

Music Professors are educators and scholars who teach music theory, history, performance, and related subjects at colleges, universities, or conservatories. They may also conduct research, direct ensembles, mentor students, and participate in academic committees. Music Professors often have advanced degrees in music and may specialize in areas such as composition, conducting, or a particular instrument. Their responsibilities can include lectures, private lessons, recital preparation, and contributing to the academic community through performances and publications.

How much does a PhD in music make?

A music professor with a PhD typically earns between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on factors such as experience, institution type, and geographic location. Salaries can be higher for those with extensive research, publications, or tenure status.

What is the difference between Music Professor vs Music Teacher?

AspectMusic Professor
AspectMusic Teacher

Music Professors typically hold advanced degrees such as a Master's or Doctorate, work at colleges or universities, and focus on higher education and research. Music Teachers often work in K-12 schools, private studios, or community programs, teaching students of all ages. Both roles require strong musical skills and teaching credentials, but Music Professors usually engage in academic research and curriculum development, while Music Teachers focus on foundational skill development. The choice depends on the educational level and work environment you aim for.

What are popular job titles related to Music Professor jobs in PA? For Music Professor jobs in PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Music Professor job openings in Pennsylvania as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,307 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Non-Credit Instructor - IUP Community Music School - Internal Candidates Only

Non-Credit Instructor - IUP Community Music School - Internal Candidates Only

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana, PA

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Nestled in the scenic foothills of western Pennsylvania, Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) offers more than a place to work-it offers a vibrant campus community where innovation, collaboration, and natural beauty come together. Our picturesque campus features tree-lined walkways, historic architecture, and welcoming green spaces that create an inspiring environment for learning, working, and connecting. At IUP, employees are part of a supportive and engaged community dedicated to student success, academic excellence, and meaningful impact.

Located in the charming college town of Indiana, Pennsylvania-just over an hour from Pittsburgh-our campus combines small-town warmth with access to the cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities of a major metropolitan area. Whether enjoying a walk across the Oak Grove, collaborating with colleagues in dynamic academic spaces, or engaging in the many cultural and community events hosted throughout the year, IUP offers an exceptional place to build a career and make a difference. Position Summary & Description The IUP Community Music School (IUPCMS) seeks part-time music instructors to one, provide in person non-credit private music lessons to a student of any age enrolled in the year-round program of the IUPCMS, or two, lead a music ensemble as its director.

Per hour renumeration dependent upon music credentials and experience. Position Qualifications Required: Recommendation in writing by a current IUP music professor or equivalent directly to IUPCMS Director that the individual is qualified to provide music lessons on a specific instrument. Must be a music major if applying for Teaching Apprentice level instructor, or hold a bachelors or masters degree in music if applying for Teaching Artist level instructor.

If an interview is required, candidates must communicate effectively and perform well during the interview(s). Essential Functions Must be able to provide effective one-on-one private lesson instruction on approved instrument. Must be able to use online software utilized to run the IUPCMS, to include accurately logging/marking all lessons.

Timely and thorough communication, primarily through email, is also essential for success. Special Instructions to Applicants To apply for this position, please request a recommendation be submitted by email to the director of the IUPCMS at jwacker@iup.edu by an IUP music professor or equivalent. Any candidate who does not have a recommendation on file with the IUPCMS Director will not be considered

Committed to excellence through diversity, IUP is an equal opportunity employer M/F/D/V and is a proud member of the State System of Higher Education. All offers of employment are contingent upon verification of work eligibility, and satisfactory completion of background checks. IUP is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming workplace.

We do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, applicants and employees with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process or to perform the essential functions of a position. Employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, consistent with the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity.

Applicants who require an accommodation during the recruitment process are encouraged to contact human-resources@iup.edu. All offers of employment are contingent upon verification of earned degrees through the receipt of official transcripts, confirmation of work eligibility, and satisfactory completion of background checks.