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Musical Director Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

New Hope Church of Norfolk is seeking a Church Musician to serve and assist the lead music director for the worship music ministry for New Hope services including in house and out. Job Requirements ...

Hammond Organist

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$300 - $500/wk

New Hope Church of Norfolk is seeking a Church Musician to serve and assist the lead music director for the worship music ministry for New Hope services including in house and out. Job Requirements ...

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Musical Director information

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$9

$31

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How much do musical director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for musical director in Virginia is $31.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.96 and $42.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Virginia are hiring for Musical Director jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Musical Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Musical Director job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Full Time, and 82% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,731 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Catholic Mass Music Director

Ladgov Corporation

Hampton, VA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Catholic Mass Music Director
Place of Performance: Langley Air Force Base Chapel, 180 Dodd Blvd, Hampton, VA 23665
Schedule:
  • 0900 Sunday Service
  • 1100 Sunday Service
  • Rehearsals for each service
  • Special Services
Duties:
  • Lead congregational singing, provide instrumental accompaniment, identify and train cantors, and direct the choir for liturgical parts.
  • Select and prepare liturgically appropriate music, subject to approval, in accordance with the Guidelines for Catholic Liturgical Music provided by the Catholic Priest.
  • The Music Director should have experience playing the historic 1934 M.P. Möller Opus 6299 pipe organ, which holds pride of place in the Catholic liturgy at Langley Chapel.
  • Prepare and conduct rehearsals for instrumentalists and singers for each service. Rehearsals shall be no less than 60 minutes in duration and scheduled in advance, with approval from the Catholic Priest/Chaplain.
  • Recruit instrumentalists, choir members, and cantors for the choir.
  • Maintain communication with choir members, instrumentalists, and the Catholic Priest, as well as with the priest celebrant of the Mass.
  • Attend quarterly or more frequent liturgical planning meetings as requested by the Catholic Priest.
  • The Music Director should have proficiency in Gregorian Chant and polyphonic music, which are valued for their ability to elevate the liturgical experience.
  • The Music Director shall forecast and order music for choir members and musicians, in collaboration with the Catholic Priest and chapel staff, during the USAF budgeting cycle.

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About LADGOV

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ladgov Corporation is a Small business headquartered in Williamsburg, VA. We provide solutions to our clients in the U.S and around the globe. Ladgov’s Capabilities span from providing Public Health services in Biomedical Engineering, Bio-Pharmaceutical Research to IT & Cyber Security Solutions, Project Management, Data Analytics as well as Religious Services, Facility Management, Education Support services, and Infrastructure Management Services. LADGOV Corporation is dedicated to supporting its customers both in the private and federal space by fulfilling its commitment to each requirement and achieving exceptional results. Our staff uses modern cutting-edge technology to provide the best solutions to your mission needs. Satisfaction guaranteed!

Industry

Professional, scientific, and technical services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Williamsburg, VA, US

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