Music Theory Tutor
OH · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
OH · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
College Station, TX · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
College Station, TX · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Carrollton, GA · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Carrollton, GA · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
North Las Vegas, NV · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
North Las Vegas, NV · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Chapel Hill, NC · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Chapel Hill, NC · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Miami, FL · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Miami, FL · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
New Orleans, LA · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
New Orleans, LA · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Chattanooga, TN · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Chattanooga, TN · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Paterson, NJ · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Paterson, NJ · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
MD · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
MD · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Murfreesboro, TN · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Murfreesboro, TN · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Reno, NV · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Reno, NV · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
KS · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
KS · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Rochester, NY · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Rochester, NY · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Fort Wayne, IN · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Fort Wayne, IN · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
AR · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
AR · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Edina, MN · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Edina, MN · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Richmond, VA · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Richmond, VA · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
SC · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
SC · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Oklahoma City, OK · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Tutor
Oklahoma City, OK · Remote
$18 - $40/hr
Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction:
Music Theory Composition information
See salary details
$37.5K - $40.7K
7% of jobs
$40.7K - $43.9K
12% of jobs
$45.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$43.9K - $47K
11% of jobs
$47K - $50.2K
12% of jobs
$50.2K - $53.4K
4% of jobs
The median wage is $56.6K / yr.
$53.4K - $56.6K
4% of jobs
$56.6K - $59.8K
11% of jobs
$61.5K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$59.8K - $63K
27% of jobs
$63K - $66.1K
5% of jobs
$66.1K - $69.3K
4% of jobs
$69.3K - $72.5K
3% of jobs
$37.5K
$54.6K
$72.5K
How much do music theory composition jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for music theory composition in the United States is $54,560.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a music theory composition?
A Music Theory Composition job involves creating, analyzing, and teaching music based on theoretical principles. Professionals in this field may compose original works, arrange pieces, or instruct students in harmony, counterpoint, and notation. They often work in academic settings, film scoring, game design, or live performance industries. Strong knowledge of musical structures, historical styles, and digital composition tools is essential.
What can you do with a music theory composition degree?
A music theory composition degree prepares individuals for careers as composers, music arrangers, or music educators. Graduates can work in film, television, or game scoring, or pursue roles in music production, conducting, or music analysis, often utilizing software like Finale or Sibelius. The degree also provides a strong foundation for advanced study or certification in music-related fields.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in music theory composition, and why are they important?
To thrive in Music Theory Composition, you need a deep understanding of music theory, proficiency in composition, and often a degree in music or a related field. Familiarity with notation software like Sibelius or Finale, digital audio workstations (DAWs), and sometimes certification in music theory or composition is important. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help composers excel in diverse settings from academic to commercial music production. These abilities ensure high-quality musical output, effective communication of ideas, and adaptability across different projects and teams.
What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in music theory composition?
Daily responsibilities for professionals in Music Theory Composition often involve creating original musical pieces, arranging existing works, and developing scores for performances, film, or digital media. You may spend time collaborating with performers, conductors, or production teams to refine compositions and ensure they fit project requirements. Tasks also frequently include revising scores based on feedback, researching musical styles, and staying up to date on industry trends. This role requires a blend of independent creative work and teamwork, offering variety and the chance to contribute to a wide range of musical projects.
More about Music Theory Composition jobs
What cities are hiring for Music Theory Composition jobs?
Cities with the most Music Theory Composition job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Theory Composition jobs?
The most popular types of Music Theory Composition jobs are:
What states have the most Music Theory Composition jobs?
States with the most job openings for Music Theory Composition jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Music Theory Composition jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Music Theory Composition jobs are:
Varsity Tutors rating
5.7
Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
14th of 24 rated private schools and tutoring
Job description
About the Job
The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Music Theory tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the flexibility to set your own schedule, earn competitive rates, and make a real impact on students' academic success and understanding. All from the comfort of your home.
Why Join Our Platform?
What We Look For In a Music Theory Tutor
Ways To Connect With Students
About Varsity Tutors And 1-on-1 Online Tutoring
Our mission is to transform the way people learn by leveraging advanced technology, AI, and the latest in learning science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students receive customized instruction that helps them achieve their learning goals. Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a passion for learning.
Please note: Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia or Puerto Rico.
The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Music Theory tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the flexibility to set your own schedule, earn competitive rates, and make a real impact on students' academic success and understanding. All from the comfort of your home.
Why Join Our Platform?
- Earn incrementally higher pay for each session with the same student, reaching up to $40/hour.
- Get paid up to twice per week, ensuring fast and reliable compensation for the tutoring sessions you conduct and invoice.
- Set your own hours and tutor as much as you'd like.
- Tutor remotely using our purpose-built Live Learning Platform. No commuting required.
- Get matched with students best-suited to your teaching style and expertise.
- Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson generation, and engagement features, helping you save prep time and focus on impactful teaching.
- We handle the logistics—you just invoice for your tutoring sessions, and we take care of payments.
What We Look For In a Music Theory Tutor
- Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of notation, scales, key signatures, intervals, chords, chord progressions, rhythm, meter, harmony, counterpoint, form analysis, and ear training. Ability to explain Roman numeral analysis, voice leading rules, four-part chorale writing, and formal structures while preparing students for AP Music Theory, college music courses, and conservatory auditions.
- Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching harmonic analysis, part-writing, and aural skills development. Guides students through identifying intervals and chords by ear, writing four-part harmony following voice leading rules, analyzing musical form, realizing figured bass, and sight-singing with solfege. Emphasizes connecting theoretical knowledge to practical musicianship and applies music theory to composition, arranging, and performance interpretation.
- Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with music theory curricula and common challenges such as aural interval identification, mastering voice leading rules, and analyzing chromatic harmony. Adapts instruction using ear training software, part-writing exercises, and score analysis to support students from beginning theory through advanced AP Music Theory, college coursework, and conservatory preparation.
- Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple approaches, and adapt instruction to meet individual learning needs and styles.
- Strong communication skills and a friendly, engaging teaching style.
- Ability to adapt to different learning styles and student needs.
Ways To Connect With Students
- 1-on-1 Online Tutoring - Provide personalized instruction to individual students.
- Instant Tutoring - Accept on-demand tutoring requests whenever you're available.
About Varsity Tutors And 1-on-1 Online Tutoring
Our mission is to transform the way people learn by leveraging advanced technology, AI, and the latest in learning science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students receive customized instruction that helps them achieve their learning goals. Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a passion for learning.
Please note: Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia or Puerto Rico.
What Varsity Tutors employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Varsity Tutors
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Education
Company size
501 - 1,000 Employees
Headquarters location
St. Louis, MO, US
Year founded
2007