1

Orchestra Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Retail Associate

Cleveland, OH ยท On-site

$18/hr

The Cleveland Orchestra is seeking a part-time, as needed Customer Retail Associate who will be a highly visible, guest-facing member of the team, responsible for ensuring that guests receive ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Orchestra information

See Ohio salary details

$18.7K

$41.5K

$69K

How much do orchestra jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for orchestra in Ohio is $41,513.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,623.00 and $48,448.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an orchestra?

An orchestra is a large group of musicians who play together on various instruments, typically including strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Orchestras are commonly led by a conductor and perform classical music, film scores, and other types of symphonic works. They may vary in size from smaller chamber orchestras to large symphony orchestras with over 100 musicians. Orchestras play an important role in live performances, education, and recordings, and are central to many cultural institutions around the world.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an orchestra musician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Orchestra Musician, you need advanced proficiency on your instrument, sight-reading skills, and often a degree in music performance or equivalent experience. Familiarity with digital sheet music platforms, metronomes, and sometimes audition certifications from recognized institutions are typically required. Exceptional teamwork, discipline, and the ability to take direction from a conductor are vital soft skills. These qualifications ensure cohesive musical performances and the ability to adapt to the dynamic, collaborative environment of an orchestra.

What are some common challenges musicians face when joining a new orchestra, and how can they adapt successfully?

When joining a new orchestra, musicians often face challenges such as adjusting to the ensemble's unique playing style, understanding the conductor's preferences, and integrating smoothly with existing section dynamics. Building strong communication with fellow musicians and being open to feedback are key to adapting successfully. Attending rehearsals prepared, listening attentively to the group's interpretation, and being flexible with one's own playing style help ensure a smooth transition and contribute positively to the orchestra's overall sound.

What is the difference between Orchestra vs Music Director?

AspectOrchestraMusic Director
Primary RolePerforms as a musician within an orchestra ensembleLeads and directs the orchestra, shaping musical interpretation
Required CredentialsMusical performance skills, often conservatory trainingConducting experience, advanced musical education
Work EnvironmentConcert halls, recording studios, rehearsalsRehearsals, concerts, administrative meetings
Industry UsageMusicians, performersLeadership, artistic direction

While an orchestra consists of performing musicians, a music director is responsible for leading and shaping the orchestra's artistic vision. The roles are interconnected but distinct, with the orchestra focusing on performance and the music director on leadership and interpretation.

How hard is it to get a job in an orchestra?

Getting a job in an orchestra is highly competitive, often requiring advanced musical training, such as a degree from a conservatory, and auditioning for specific positions. Auditions are typically rigorous, and candidates must demonstrate exceptional skill, sight-reading ability, and experience to secure a position.

What are the positions in an orchestra?

An orchestra typically includes string instruments such as violins, violas, cellos, and double basses; woodwinds like flutes, clarinets, oboes, and bassoons; brass instruments such as trumpets, trombones, and horns; and percussion instruments including timpani, snare drums, and cymbals. Musicians are often organized into sections based on instrument type, and each position requires specific skills and often a high level of training or auditioning.

What do orchestra players get paid?

Orchestra players' salaries vary based on experience, location, and the size of the organization. In the United States, professional orchestra musicians typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, with top-tier positions paying higher and some part-time or freelance roles earning less. Many orchestra players also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What are the most commonly searched types of Orchestra jobs in Ohio?

The most popular types of Orchestra jobs in Ohio are:

What are popular job titles related to Orchestra jobs in Ohio?

For Orchestra jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Orchestra jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Orchestra job openings:

Infographic showing various Orchestra job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 77% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,513 per year, or $20 per hour.

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Resident Fellowship

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra

Cincinnati, OH โ€ข On-site

$2.5K/wk

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Resident Fellow (1 position)
Eligible instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello, Horn, Trombone and Percussion
Application Deadline: Sept 30, 2026
Preliminary Round by audio recording: Oct 12 - Nov 8, 2026
In-Person Semi-Final and Final Rounds and Interview: Feb 1-2, 2027
The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra's Fellowship Program is a rigorous, excellence-driven training program designed to prepare exceptional early-career/post-graduate musicians for success in national auditions with major symphonic orchestras. Fellows benefit from meaningful mentorship, hands-on experience alongside CSO members and significant professional and financial support - all within an environment committed to inclusion and artistic excellence. No less than 35 weeks of full-time employment with the CSO for one- or up to two-seasons in duration. Weekly compensation and benefits. 2027-2028 weekly salary is $2,590.44.
Visit our website for additional information. https://www.cincinnatisymphony.org/education-and-community/fellowship/
Contact auditions@cincinnatisymphony.org with inquiries.
Requirements
  • Early-career symphonic musicians who have graduated from college, university or conservatory by September 2027, who have demonstrated commitment to access and inclusion of underserved populations in the arts, learning and civic leadership.
  • Fellows will be selected through a screening and audition process.
  • Candidates may currently hold a position in another orchestra and should be prepared to take a leave of absence if accepted as a Fellow.
  • If accepted to the fellowship, candidates must be willing to join American Federation of Musicians Local #1.
  • Musicians hired by the CSO are solely responsible for having and maintaining authorization to be employed in the United States of America on a full-time basis by May 31, 2027.

Auditioning for:
  • Violin, Viola, Cello, Horn, Trombone, or Percussion

Visit our website for additional information. https://www.cincinnatisymphony.org/education-and-community/fellowship/
Contact auditions@cincinnatisymphony.org with inquiries.