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Musical Director Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Restaurant Team Member

Rochester, MN

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

Work multiple stations (load, dress, shakes, cash, prep, front) as directed by Manager or Shift ... music, customer and employee traffic. * Must be able to tolerate potential allergens: peanut ...

Restaurant Team Member

Rochester, MN · On-site

$11.75 - $15.50/hr

Work multiple stations (load, dress, shakes, cash, prep, front) as directed by Manager or Shift ... music, customer and employee traffic. * Must be able to tolerate potential allergens: peanut ...

Musical Director information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$9

$32

$70

How much do musical director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for musical director in Rochester, MN is $32.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.33 and $43.83 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 near Rochester, MN are hiring for Musical Director jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Musical Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Musical Director job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,343 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Musical Accompanists

Minnetonka Public Schools

Rochester, MN • On-site

$32.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago


Minnetonka Public Schools rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 633 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Music Teacher

Season Dates: Ongoing District Need

Job Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and play piano, keyboard, guitar, bass, violin/viola, percussion, horn or any musical instrument accompaniments employing advanced musical skills and demonstrating proficiency in multiple choral genres in rehearsal and public performances.
  • Demonstrate proficient advanced sight-reading skills.
  • Practice as music may indicate to ensure secure performances and playing of vocal parts (open score) during rehearsals.
  • Run sectionals and coach music students during section rehearsals, providing a summary to the director.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in music and/or professional level ability to play. Bachelor's degree is preferred.
  • Evidence of successful experiences working with school age music students.
  • Evidence of the ability to respect, protect, and maintain confidentiality.
  • Evidence of the ability and inclination to take charge of student behavior if circumstances suggest.
  • Evidence of the ability to work in a team environment.
  • Evidence of excellent human relations and oral communication skills, and interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, the general public, etc. sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.
  • Ability to commit to the full year schedule and ideally to remain with the position for the long term, building upon a strong, consistent team in the dept.
  • Ability to transpose or improvise an accompaniment is desirable.
  • Working knowledge of Finale may be a consideration.

Compensation: $32.50 per hour Not medical or dental benefit eligible.

Application Procedure: Please attach a letter of interest and resume, and submit with your online application. Current Employees, please fill out the Internal Application form found on the district website under "District" then "Departments-Human Resources" click "Submit an Internal Application/Transfer Form" found on the right side of the page. Current employees do not need to attach letters of recommendation or transcripts.


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