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Percussion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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. 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 Jul 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 can you do with a percussion degree?

A percussion degree prepares individuals for careers as professional percussionists, music educators, or studio musicians. Graduates can work in orchestras, bands, or teaching settings, often requiring proficiency with various percussion instruments and music theory. Additional skills in performance, recording, and music production can expand career opportunities.

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 are 5 careers that involve music?

Careers involving music include becoming a percussionist, music teacher, sound engineer, music producer, or concert performer. These roles often require musical skills, knowledge of instruments or audio technology, and sometimes formal training or certifications. They can involve working in studios, live venues, educational settings, or freelance environments.

How do you become a percussionist?

To become a percussionist, one typically learns to play percussion instruments through formal music education, such as attending a music school or taking private lessons. Developing strong rhythm skills, understanding different percussion techniques, and gaining experience performing with ensembles or bands are essential steps. Many percussionists also learn to read music and may pursue certifications or degrees in music performance.

What is a percussionist job?

A percussionist is a musician who specializes in playing percussion instruments such as drums, cymbals, and mallet instruments. They often perform in orchestras, bands, or studio settings, requiring rhythm skills and knowledge of various percussion tools. The role may involve reading sheet music and practicing regularly to maintain timing and technique.

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.

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.

What are percussionists?

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.
More about Percussion jobs
What cities are hiring for Percussion jobs? 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? States with the most job openings for Percussion jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Percussion jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Percussion jobs are:
Percussion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Percussion job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $66,271 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Percussion Instructor

Rose Hill Unified School District 394

Rose Hill, KS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Athletics/Activities/Coaching
Date Posted:
4/27/2026
Location:
USD 394 High School
Date Available:
08/01/2026
This is a supplemental position. The current negotiated supplment is $4,568.
Purpose Statement
Provides direct instruction specifically to percussion instrumentalists in grades 6-12 during regular class one day per week. Facilitates 6th, 7th, and 8th grade percussion introductions and auditions with assistance from directors. Rehearses drumline and percussion ensemble during "0-Hour" on Wednesday mornings. Takes responsibility for all drumline teaching during mini-camp. May assist in music selection.
Reports To Instrumental Music Teacher(s) and Building Principal(s)
Supervises No supervisory responsibilities
Education Complete 48 hours at an institution of higher education, or
Obtain an associate's, or higher, degree, or
High School diploma or equivalent, and pass a State-approved assessment
Qualifications Must be able to read music.
Must be able to read, write, and comprehend written and oral instructions
Experience Proof of completion of college-level coursework or advanced private training in percussion and music theory.
Terms School year work schedule, some evening, weekend, and/or variable hours.
Salary is determined by the current salary schedule
FLSA Status Non-Exempt
Evaluation Performance evaluation done by Band Instructor(s) and Building Principal(s)
Continuing Education/Training Certificates & Licenses
Annual Training Videos
Clearances
Background Check
Pre-employment Physical
TB Test
Complete Job Decription attached.
For further information contact Nate Hills (nhills@usd394.com), Josh Turner (jturner@usd394.com), or Collin Mangus (cmangus@usd394.com).
Attachment(s):
  • Percussion Instructor Job Decription

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