2

Part Time Musician Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Music Teacher

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$20 - $45/hr

Job Type Part-time Description Nick Rail Music - Private/Group Music Instructor Nick Rail Music is seeking EXPERIENCED WOODWIND AND BRASS MUSIC TEACHERS to teach private and group music lessons. Nick ...

This is a part-time position based in San Francisco. Key Responsibilities * Create an atmosphere that energizes the crowd and motivates the players * Play the music, backing tracks, special effects ...

Showing results 21-40

Part Time Musician information

See California salary details

$5

$21

$48

How much do part time musician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time musician in California is $21.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a part time musician?

Part time musicians are individuals who perform, compose, or teach music on a part-time basis rather than as their full-time occupation. They may work for orchestras, bands, churches, schools, or as solo performers, often balancing music with another job or studies. Part time musicians typically perform at gigs, events, or recordings, and may also give lessons or participate in community ensembles. This flexibility allows them to pursue their passion for music while maintaining other commitments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time musician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Part Time Musician, you need proficiency in your chosen instrument or voice, a basic understanding of music theory, and often some formal training or relevant experience. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), sound equipment, and music notation software is typically beneficial. Reliability, creativity, and strong collaboration skills help musicians stand out when working with others or performing live. These skills and qualities ensure high-quality performances, adaptability across varied gigs, and positive relationships with bandmates and clients.

What are some common challenges part-time musicians face when balancing multiple gigs and commitments?

Part-time musicians often juggle several performances, rehearsals, and sometimes other jobs or studies, making time management a significant challenge. Scheduling conflicts can arise, especially when working with different bands or venues, and last-minute changes may require flexibility. Additionally, maintaining consistent practice routines and networking with industry professionals can be difficult with limited availability. However, strong organizational skills and clear communication with collaborators can help manage these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Part Time Musician vs Freelance Musician?

AspectPart Time MusicianFreelance Musician
CredentialsBasic musical skills, possibly some formal trainingSame as Part Time Musician, often self-taught or formal training
Work EnvironmentPerforming at events, venues, or local gigs, often scheduledVaried locations, self-managed schedule, multiple clients
Employer/Industry UsagePart of a band, ensemble, or employer’s staffIndependent contractor, self-employed
Search/Comparison IntentLooking for part-time music work or gigsSeeking freelance opportunities or independent projects

Part Time Musicians typically perform for a set schedule within an organization or band, often with a regular employer. Freelance Musicians operate independently, managing their own schedule and clients. Both roles require musical skills, but freelance musicians have more flexibility and varied work environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Musician jobs in California?

The most popular types of Musician jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Part Time Musician jobs in California?

For Part Time Musician jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Part Time Musician jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Part Time Musician jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Part Time Musician jobs?

Cities in California with the most Part Time Musician job openings:

Infographic showing various Part Time Musician job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 57% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,268 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Elementary Music Teacher Part-Time

Encore Music & Performing Arts

South Pasadena, CA • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Part-time

Dental, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Elementary Music Teacher 3rd-5th Grade
Part-Time  •  In Person  •  $35.00/hour
A growing music school with two locations is seeking a qualified Elementary Music Teacher for a 3rd–5th Grade Music position. This role runs three days per week during the school day, with the year culminating in two student performances (Winter and Spring). We are looking for a highly qualified & versatile instructor to join our team of effective and caring music educators. 
Instructors will begin as part-time employees. Beginning hourly rate is $35.00 with opportunity to discuss a raise in January. Lessons are taught on site, in person. We are in need of an instructor to lead general music instruction for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students, building toward two performances throughout the year. We provide the lesson plans and the written performances with practice videos. Work hours would be between 8am and 2:50pm.

Bonus Opportunity — After School 5th Grade Band

We are also still looking to fill our After School 5th Grade Beginning Band position (Monday–Thursday, 2:45–4:15 PM). This is not a requirement for the 3rd–5th Grade Music Teacher role, but instructors who are qualified and interested in leading this ensemble as well are encouraged to say so in their application — we would love to fill both positions with the right person. Instructors who take on both roles will be paid $40.00/hour for the band instruction.

Applicant Requirements

  • Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree or greater in a related field.
  • Previous classroom or group teaching experience

  • The ability to teach to the individual while still meeting set goals for the class.
  • Good people skills: works well with both children and adults, and enjoys building client relationships.
  • Timely & Reliable: though we appreciate the gigging musician, we are not looking for musicians who regularly ask off to travel and record. Consistency in instruction is important to student growth & success.
  • Good time management skills.
  • A positive attitude during instruction: the ability to encourage and motivate students to work through their weak areas and to build upon their strengths.
  • The desire to collaborate with a team to create a high quality, yet fun, music education environment.
  • Must love teaching — the desire to make teaching your career is a big plus!

Application Process

Please include a short cover letter which includes:
  • Your primary instrument
  • Any secondary instruments you are comfortable teaching
  • Any group classes you are excited to teach
  • A brief description of your teaching experience and methods
  • Whether you'd also be interested in leading the After School 5th Grade Band (optional)
We will contact qualified candidates for interviews. Thank you!

Position Details

Job Type: Part-time
Rate: $35.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Benefits

  • Dental insurance
  • Professional development assistance
  • 401k
Schedule

  • 3 days per week (specific days to be confirmed) between 8am-2:50pm
  • School year, culminating in two performances

Optional Add-On Position

  • After School 5th Grade Beginning Band — Monday to Thursday, 2:45 PM – 4:15 PM, $40.00/hour when combined with this role (bonus opportunity, not required). October thru March