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Musical Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Musical Director will teach or co-teach our Musical Theater Performance class and guide students through the process of preparing for a final musical theater production. This role is ideal for ...

New

Play Director

Castro Valley, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

The Musical Director will teach or co-teach our Musical Theater Performance class and guide students through the process of preparing for a final musical theater production. This role is ideal for ...

New

The Assistant Musical Theater Director will co-teach our Musical Theater Performance class and support the Musical Director in preparing students for a final musical theater production. This is an ...

New

The Assistant Musical Theater Director will co-teach our Musical Theater Performance class and support the Musical Director in preparing students for a final musical theater production. This is an ...

New

Music Teacher

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$60K - $123K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Experience producing or directing children's musical performances is preferred * Knowledge of positive behavior management strategies and the ability to follow supervisory guidance * Strong ...

Director, Music Strategy & Operations

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$125K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Director, Music Strategy & OperationsWho Are We We are a global community that is driven by the creative spirit of Los Angeles. Through an inspiring mix of music, news, and culture, we bring joy and ...

The candidate fulfilling the qualifications will work directly with the Worship Pastor, Music Director, and the various worship leaders with whom they will be serving. The role of the musician is a ...

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Musical Director information

What is a musical director?

Musical Directors are professionals responsible for overseeing the musical aspects of performances, productions, or ensembles. They select and arrange music, lead rehearsals, guide musicians and singers, and ensure the overall musical quality aligns with the artistic vision. Musical Directors may work in theater, film, television, orchestras, or choirs, collaborating closely with performers and production teams. Their role is crucial in bringing together all musical elements to create a cohesive and engaging performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a musical director?

To thrive as a Musical Director, you need a deep understanding of music theory, conducting, arranging, and often a degree in music or a related field. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), music notation software like Sibelius or Finale, and sound engineering tools is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and creative problem-solving skills help in guiding performers and collaborating with production teams. These skills are crucial for delivering cohesive, high-quality musical performances and ensuring smooth coordination throughout rehearsals and live events.

How does a musical director typically collaborate with other creative team members during a production?

A Musical Director works closely with directors, choreographers, producers, and performers to ensure the musical vision aligns with the overall production. They attend rehearsals, provide musical interpretation, and give feedback to performers, while also coordinating with sound engineers and orchestra members. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as the Musical Director often helps bridge creative ideas between departments, ensuring a cohesive end result.

What is the difference between Musical Director vs Conductor?

AspectMusical DirectorConductor
CredentialsMusic degree, conducting experience, leadership skillsMusic degree, conducting training, baton technique
Work EnvironmentRehearsals, planning, overseeing musical performancesLeading live performances, conducting orchestras or choirs
Industry UsageTheater productions, musical ensembles, orchestrasOrchestras, choirs, opera companies

The main difference is that a Musical Director oversees the overall musical vision and planning of a production or ensemble, while a Conductor primarily leads live performances by directing musicians during concerts or shows. Both roles require strong musical credentials, but the Musical Director often has broader responsibilities including selection and rehearsals, whereas the Conductor focuses on performance execution.

How do I become a musical director?

To become a musical director, typically one needs a strong background in music theory, performance, and conducting, often gained through a bachelor's degree in music or a related field. Gaining experience by working as a musician, assistant director, or in related roles helps develop leadership and organizational skills essential for the position. Building a network within the industry and demonstrating proficiency with musical arrangements and conducting tools are also important steps.

How much do musical directors earn?

Musical directors typically earn between $40,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the organization or production. Salaries can vary widely for freelance or part-time roles, and additional income may come from conducting, arranging, or teaching.

How much do musical directors make?

The average salary for a musical director varies depending on experience, location, and the type of organization. In the United States, they typically earn between $40,000 and $100,000 annually, with higher salaries for those working in professional theater, television, or large productions. Many musical directors also supplement income through freelance work, teaching, or conducting.

What do you do as a musical director?

A musical director oversees the musical aspects of a production or organization, including selecting repertoire, conducting rehearsals, and guiding performers. They coordinate with composers, arrangers, and performers to ensure the musical vision is achieved and often use tools like sheet music and conducting techniques. Strong leadership, musical knowledge, and communication skills are essential for this role.

What cities in California are hiring for Musical Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Musical Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Musical Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Play Director

PlayCV

Castro Valley, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

About PlayCV

PlayCV is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to bring fun and enriching after-school classes, programs, camps, and activities to TK–8th grade students in our community. We strive to bring enrichment programs that both further and introduce subject matters of interest. Our intention is to foster team and individual growth while developing social interactions. All of our programs take place onsite at one of the Castro Valley Unified School District’s elementary or middle schools.

PlayCV is proud to offer an extensive Theater Arts program for interested students. Each school year, PlayCV offers a Musical Theater Performance class. PlayCV is committed to providing high-quality, engaging theater education to elementary and middle school students. Our goal is to inspire creativity, build confidence, and foster a love for the performing arts.

About the Role

PlayCV is seeking a passionate and experienced Musical Director to join our team during the 2026–27 school year. The Musical Director will teach or co-teach our Musical Theater Performance class and guide students through the process of preparing for a final musical theater production.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with young performers and wants to introduce students to theater arts while helping them develop confidence, creativity, collaboration, and performance skills.

The Musical Director will blend MTI-provided resources, PlayCV resources, and their own creative vision while remaining within the requirements of the applicable MTI contract.

Expected Time Commitment: 10–12 hours per week, Monday–Thursday late afternoons, approximately 2:15 p.m.–5:30 p.m.

Timeline Commitment: October–January


Requirements

Essential Job Functions

Key Responsibilities

  • Planning & Preparation: Attend an introductory planning meeting with the producers prior to the start of the program. Prepare and organize necessary materials, resources, and activities for classes.
  • Instruction: Direct a 30-minute to 1-hour MTI KIDS or Jr. production.
  • Blend MTI-provided resources, PlayCV-provided resources, and your own creative vision while remaining within MTI contract requirements.
  • Teach foundational acting techniques and help students develop confidence and performance skills.
  • Create choreography and blocking appropriate for the age and experience level of participating students.
  • Support students in learning and developing their musical performance skills.
  • Incorporate creative and age-appropriate use of props, costumes, and background sets.
  • Student Supervision: Oversee and direct students during classes while maintaining a positive, engaging, and productive learning environment.
  • Ensure the safety and well-being of students throughout classes, rehearsals, technical rehearsals, and performances.
  • Use appropriate guidance and behavior management strategies to support students in a high-energy theater environment.
  • Accompany and support students backstage during technical rehearsals and performances.
  • Show Production: Assist with the creative planning, preparation, and execution of the final production.
  • Collaborate with PlayCV staff, producers, and other instructors to support a successful production.
  • Attend all required class, rehearsal, technical rehearsal, and final performance dates.
  • Perform other duties related to the Musical Theater Performance program as assigned.

Candidate Profile

We’re looking for team members who:

  • Have a passion for theater arts and enjoy introducing young students to the performing arts.
  • Have a minimum of 6 months of experience working with school-aged students in an instructional setting.
  • Have previous experience in directing, performance, acting, or stage management.
  • Have a basic understanding of musical theater and the production process.
  • Are comfortable teaching and directing school-aged students in a creative, high-energy environment.
  • Demonstrate patience, composure, and appropriate classroom and student management skills.
  • Have strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask effectively.
  • Are creative, proactive, and able to solve problems quickly and decisively.
  • Are collaborative and comfortable working with PlayCV staff, producers, students, and other instructors.
  • Are dependable and able to commit to all scheduled classes, rehearsals, and final performance dates.
  • Have a High School diploma or GED. A Bachelor’s degree in Theatre or a related field is a plus. Commensurate experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities of the position will be considered.
  • Have a background in dance or choir is a plus.
  • Bilingual candidates are a plus.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to communicate effectively with students, staff, families, and production team members.
  • Visual and auditory ability to continuously interact with students during instruction and rehearsals.
  • Ability to stand, walk, move, and participate in theater activities for extended periods.
  • Ability to assist with props, sets, and other materials used during rehearsals and performances.
  • Ability to work in both classroom and performance environments, including backstage areas.

Conditions of Employment

  • Must be available for all scheduled class, rehearsal, technical rehearsal, and final performance dates.
  • Must attend required PlayCV training.
  • Must comply with PlayCV policies, procedures, safety requirements, and school site requirements.
  • All incoming employees must complete the required LiveScan background check and provide proof of a negative TB test within the required timeframe.