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Percussion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Desoto Schools

Percussion Sponsor

Arcadia, FL · On-site

DeSoto County High School DHS Percussion Sponsor ($1,000 Stipend) Responsibilities: * * Support the Band Director in the instruction and supervision of the high school percussion section. * * Assist ...

Ladgov Corporation

Percussion Tutor

Kings Point, NY · On-site

Percussion Tutor. Location : Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY 11024, United States. Job Type: Part time. Qualifications: * 2 years of professional experience in music education teaching high ...

Ladgov Corporation

Percussion Tutor

Kings Point, NY · On-site

Percussion Tutor. Location : Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY 11024, United States. Job Type: Part time. Qualifications: * 2 years of professional experience in music education teaching high ...

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Percussion information

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$31.5K

$66.3K

$114K

How much do percussion jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for percussion in the United States is $66,271.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $75,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a percussion?

Percussionists are musicians who play percussion instruments, which include drums, cymbals, xylophones, marimbas, tambourines, and many other instruments that produce sound when struck, shaken, or scraped. They play a crucial role in musical ensembles, providing rhythm, texture, and special effects. Percussionists often need to be versatile, as they may be required to play multiple instruments during a single performance or recording session.

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

To thrive as a Percussionist, you need strong musical proficiency, rhythm, and coordination, often supported by formal music education or specialized training. Familiarity with various percussion instruments, sheet music, and sometimes digital audio workstations or recording equipment is essential. Excellent teamwork, discipline, and adaptability are key soft skills for collaborating with other musicians and adjusting to different styles or performance settings. These skills ensure high-quality performances, effective collaboration, and professional versatility in diverse musical environments.

How does a percussionist typically collaborate with other musicians in an ensemble or orchestra setting?

Percussionists play a crucial role in ensembles and orchestras by providing rhythm, texture, and special effects. They work closely with conductors to ensure precise timing and often coordinate with other sections, especially the rhythm section and brass. Communication and adaptability are vital, as percussionists may switch between different instruments during a single performance and must be attentive to cues from both the conductor and fellow musicians. Collaboration is essential to achieve a cohesive sound and a successful performance.

What is the difference between Percussion vs Drummer?

AspectPercussionDrummer
Required SkillsKnowledge of various percussion instruments, rhythm, and timingSpecialized in drum set playing, rhythm, and coordination
Work EnvironmentOrchestras, bands, studios, live performancesBands, orchestras, studio recordings, live shows
CertificationsNone typically required, but percussion-specific training helpfulNone typically required, but drum certifications or lessons common
Industry UsageBroadly used across genres, including classical, jazz, and popular musicPrimarily in bands, ensembles, and popular music settings

While both percussionists and drummers play rhythm instruments, percussionists have a broader focus on various percussion instruments, whereas drummers specialize in drum sets. Percussionists often work in diverse musical settings, while drummers are more common in band and ensemble contexts. Understanding these differences helps clarify job roles and expectations in the music industry.

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Cities with the most Percussion job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Percussion jobs?

The most popular types of Percussion jobs are:

What states have the most Percussion jobs?

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Percussion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Percussion job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 62% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,271 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Percussion Instructor

Otterbein University

Westerville, OH • On-site

Temporary

Re-posted 13 hours ago

Job description

Location : 1 S Grove St, Westerville, OH
Job Type: Temporary
Job Number: 00505
Division: Academic Affairs
Department: Music
Opening Date: 07/07/2026
DESCRIPTION
The Department of Music at Otterbein University invites applications for Percussion Instructor for the Cardinal Marching Band. This is a short-term position for the duration of marching band season, August 2026 through November 2026.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Rehearse and coach battery percussion students in full band and sectional rehearsals, including additional drumline rehearsals as necessary.
  • Assist and coach mallet percussion students, if applicable.
  • Assist with outdoor rehearsals, coaching percussion students on music and specialized movements.
  • Assist with performance and game day logistics including repairing equipment, adjusting harnesses, and tuning drums.
  • Write, edit, and arrange drumline music according to need.

Candidates must be willing and able to attend rehearsals and performances of the Cardinal Marching Band. Band camp runs August 12-18, 2026, 9AM-9PM, and regular rehearsals are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:15-6:15PM. Performances on Saturdays include home football games and one travel performance. A full schedule of band camp and performances is available at otterbeinbands.com/bandcamp
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in percussion performance or music education or equivalent professional experience required. Graduate degree preferred.
  • Demonstrated success in rehearsing marching bands, including instrumental technique, drill, and visual skills.
  • Evidence of success in marching band percussion equipment management.
  • Evidence of leadership and teaching experience required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands include those associated with marching band, such as demonstrating skills, participating in practice activities, and working extended hours in varied indoor and outdoor weather conditions during practices, performances, and travel.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Duties are performed in a combination of indoor and outdoor environments subject to elements including heat, precipitation, and noise.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty that will be required of positions that will be given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind of level of difficulty.
Otterbein University's achievement of academic excellence depends on its commitment to inclusion and belonging. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates. Otterbein University is an EEO Employer.
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