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Music Writer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Music Theory Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching harmonic analysis, part-writing, and aural skills development. Guides students ... Familiar with music theory curricula and common challenges such as aural interval identification ...

Music Theory Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching harmonic analysis, part-writing, and aural skills development. Guides students ... Familiar with music theory curricula and common challenges such as aural interval identification ...

PRAXIS Music Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$25 - $40/hr

Ability to explain part-writing rules, harmonic analysis, historical style periods, and effective music teaching methodologies while preparing music education candidates for state teaching licensure ...

PRAXIS Music Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$25 - $40/hr

Ability to explain part-writing rules, harmonic analysis, historical style periods, and effective music teaching methodologies while preparing music education candidates for state teaching licensure ...

Podcasting, the fastest-growing new media, today has more monthly users than streaming music ... What We Need: We're looking for a news writer/anchor. This is an exciting opportunity to apply your ...

Live music is our passion and where we find our common ground. There has never been a better time ... May write reports of daily activities and irregularities such as equipment or property damage ...

The Temporary Accounting Admin provides administrative support for West Music allowing us to meet ... Communication - shares and receives information using clear oral, written, and interpersonal skills.

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Music Writer information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$22

$39

How much do music writer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for music writer in Iowa is $22.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a music writer do?

A Music Writer creates written content about music, which can include reviews, interviews, features, and analysis of artists, albums, and trends. They may work for magazines, websites, newspapers, or as freelancers. Music Writers often attend concerts, listen to new releases, and research musical history and culture to provide insightful commentary. Their goal is to inform, entertain, and influence readers’ understanding of music.

What does a music writer do?

As a music writer, your job is to compose songs and write lyrics, often for other people to play. This involves writing a melody and adjusting songs to the needs of your clients. While many music writers create and sell their work for professional recording artists to perform, you can also write scores for films or commercials. Some details of this job depend on your employer. Many music writers produce songs independently and try to sell their work to artists, but you can also work full-time work for entertainment companies like movie studios or video game developers. Music writers are also known as songwriters and music composers.

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

To thrive as a Music Writer, you need strong writing skills, a deep understanding of music theory and history, and a relevant degree or portfolio of published work. Familiarity with audio editing software, content management systems, and digital publishing platforms is highly valuable. Creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to meet deadlines set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure that music writers can produce insightful, engaging, and timely content for diverse audiences and media outlets.

How do music writers typically collaborate with editors and other contributors during the content creation process?

Music Writers often work closely with editors to refine their articles, reviews, or features before publication. This collaboration usually involves pitching story ideas, receiving feedback on drafts, and making revisions to align with the publication's voice and standards. Additionally, Music Writers may coordinate with photographers, graphic designers, and sometimes even artists or publicists to gather accurate information and visuals. Open communication and adaptability are key, as deadlines and editorial directions can shift based on trending topics or breaking news in the music industry.

What is the difference between Music Writer vs Music Journalist?

AspectMusic WriterMusic Journalist
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials required, but a background in music or writing helpsOften has journalism or communications background, sometimes with specialized training
Work EnvironmentFreelance or in-house writing for magazines, websites, or blogsWork for media outlets, magazines, or newspapers, often covering music events and interviews
Industry UsageUsed broadly for any writing about music, including reviews and featuresSpecifically associated with reporting, investigative work, and in-depth articles

Music Writers focus on creating content such as reviews, features, and blog posts about music, often in a freelance or digital setting. Music Journalists typically work for media outlets, producing news, interviews, and investigative reports. While both roles require strong writing skills and music knowledge, journalists often have more formal journalism training and work within traditional media environments. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the music media industry.

How much money does a music writer make?

Music writers' earnings vary based on experience, publication, and location, but they typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually. Freelance writers may have variable income depending on assignments and reputation, while those employed by media outlets often receive a steady salary. Strong writing skills and industry knowledge can influence earning potential.

What degree do you need to be a music writer?

There is no specific degree required to become a music writer, but many have bachelor's degrees in journalism, communications, music, or related fields. Strong writing skills, musical knowledge, and familiarity with industry tools like music databases or editing software are important for success in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Music Writer jobs in Iowa?

For Music Writer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Music Writer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Writer jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Music Writer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 60% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,451 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Music Therapist - Cedar Falls

WEST MUSIC COMPANY

Cedar Falls, IA • On-site

$23/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


West Music rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description:

We are seeking a full-time Board-Certified Music Therapist to join in our department’s mission of “Enriching Lives Through Participation in Music.” Since 1994, music therapists at West Music have provided high-quality music therapy services for clients in diverse settings, including hospice, supported community living, nursing homes, schools, and mental health facilities. This candidate will join a team of 12 therapists to support individuals and groups of all ages in pursuing social, emotional, communication, cognitive, and physical goals. 


Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following. Other duties may be assigned as business needs dictate:

  • Facilitate group and individual music therapy experiences that appropriately address client needs in a variety of settings
    Manage client caseload independently, including scheduling, assessing, planning, documenting, and in-the-field problem-solving
  • Coordinate with other disciplines (e.g., OT, PT, chaplaincy, social work, etc.) as necessary to accomplish therapeutic goals
  • Conduct recreational music programming such as adaptive choirs and music lessons on piano, guitar, voice, or drums with neurodivergent students
  • Travel within a 60-mile radius to conduct music therapy sessions
  • Act in an administrative capacity to support the needs of the Music Therapy Department (e.g., presentations, meetings, etc.)
  • Adhere to Scope of Practice, Code of Ethics, and Standards of Practice set forth by CBMT & AMTA
Requirements:

 Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in music therapy
  • Certification by the Certification Board for Music Therapists, CBMT. (Graduating students preparing for the certification exam are welcome to apply but must be credentialed prior to starting.)
  • Strong verbal, written, and receptive communication skills for interacting with clients and other professionals
  • Ability to make independent judgments
  • Proficient music skills in voice, guitar, percussion, and piano
  • Practical knowledge of using music as a therapeutic tool in multiple settings, including applications of theory, improvisation, and creative techniques.
  • Valid driver’s license, access to reliable transportation, and the ability to be insured as a driver of West Music vehicles, to travel between session settings.
  • Working knowledge of computers including but not limited to the application of Microsoft Office Suite

Desired Qualifications

  • Internship and/or professional experience in hospice settings
  • Competence using music making/recording software and/or apps in clinical settings

Benefits of joining the Music Therapy Team at West Music: Competitive pay, commensurate with experience.  The starting rate is $23/hour, and all work-related activities are paid

  • Access to health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
  • Paid Time Off and 8 paid holidays/year
  • 401K with company match
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Access to company car and mileage reimbursement for personal car use
  • Flexible schedule and capacity for office time to be conducted remotely
  • Support for continuing education
  • Paid CBMT dues
  • Paid AMTA membership
  • Musical equipment supplied
  • Reimbursement for use of personal phone and /or tablet
  • West Music employee discount on retail and services (lessons, repairs)

Physical Demands –  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to talk and hear.  The employee is occasionally required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms.  They must be able to perform typing and computer tasks required for this position with or without accommodation.  The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. 


West Music is an equal opportunity equal access employer committed to a diverse workforce. The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. 


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