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Percussion Faculty Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Teach percussion to students at elementary, intermediate, and advanced levels. * Actively ... Demonstrated ability to work with very diverse faculty, staff, and students. * Ability to ...

Teach percussion to students at elementary, intermediate, and advanced levels. * Actively ... Demonstrated ability to work with very diverse faculty, staff, and students. * Ability to ...

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Percussion Faculty information

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$27K

$83.9K

$143.5K

How much do percussion faculty jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for percussion faculty in the United States is $83,896.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Percussion Faculty vs Percussion Instructor?

AspectPercussion FacultyPercussion Instructor
CredentialsTypically requires a master's or doctoral degree in music or percussionOften requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
Work EnvironmentUniversities, colleges, or conservatoriesPrivate lessons, music schools, community programs
Employer & IndustryHigher education institutions, arts organizationsMusic schools, private studios, community centers

Percussion Faculty usually work in academic settings, holding advanced degrees and teaching at colleges or universities. Percussion Instructors often work in private or community settings, focusing on individual or group lessons. While both roles involve teaching percussion, the faculty position typically involves more formal academic responsibilities and credentials.

What Are Percussion Faculty Jobs?

Percussion faculty jobs focus on teaching drums and percussive instruments in a school setting. Your duties vary depending on the environment in which you teach. Typically, faculty members work in the music department at a college or university, but you can also work in a music conservatory or secondary school. You offer instruction in a specific percussion instrument or guide the practice and performance of the percussion section of a larger musical group. In addition to teaching and managing performances, the responsibilities of percussion faculty members include lesson planning and other class preparations as well as scheduling rehearsals and performances.

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

To thrive as Percussion Faculty, you need advanced proficiency in percussion performance, a relevant music degree (often at the master's or doctoral level), and experience in music education. Familiarity with music notation software, digital audio workstations, and various percussion instruments is typically required, and memberships in professional organizations or certifications may be beneficial. Strong communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help create engaging lessons and foster student growth. These competencies ensure effective teaching, inspire students, and contribute to the excellence of a music program.

What are Percussion Faculty?

Percussion Faculty are professional educators, typically at colleges or universities, who specialize in teaching percussion instruments such as drums, timpani, marimba, xylophone, and other related instruments. They provide instruction in both individual and group settings, covering technique, repertoire, performance skills, and music theory as it relates to percussion. In addition to teaching, Percussion Faculty may also coach ensembles, conduct masterclasses, and contribute to curriculum development. Many are active performers or researchers in their field, helping to inspire and mentor the next generation of percussionists.

How does a Percussion Faculty member typically collaborate with other music department staff and students?

As a Percussion Faculty member, you will work closely with other instrumental and ensemble directors to coordinate performances, curriculum, and student development. Collaboration often includes joint rehearsals, interdisciplinary projects, and participation in juries or auditions. You’ll also mentor students individually and in groups, ensuring their progress aligns with departmental goals. Teamwork and strong communication with colleagues are essential for creating a cohesive educational experience and successful concerts or recitals.
What cities are hiring for Percussion Faculty jobs? Cities with the most Percussion Faculty job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Percussion Faculty jobs? The most popular types of Percussion Faculty jobs are:
What states have the most Percussion Faculty jobs? States with the most job openings for Percussion Faculty jobs include:
Infographic showing various Percussion Faculty job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Full Time, and 86% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,896 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

CSPA Percussion Faculty

Colburn

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$60 - $85/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY OF POSITION:
Teach group/percussion classes and individual lessons to percussion students at elementary through advanced levels. Lessons and group classes will take place for 32 weeks at a mutually agreeable time.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Teach percussion to students at elementary, intermediate, and advanced levels.
  • Actively participate as needed in recruiting students new to the Colburn School and work to foster relationships in the community.
  • Coach sectionals as needed for both the bands and orchestras on Sunday.
  • Encourage student participation in Colburn ensembles as appropriate.
  • Select appropriate repertoire for students.

  • Hold parent meetings/conferences to address student problems or issues, as needed.
  • Provide counseling related to students' musical development.
  • Perform administrative tasks associated with students' attendance and performance records.
  • Manage CSPA percussion inventory.

  • Work closely with Community School staff to give support and guidance to students on their musical path.

  • Assist students with recording sessions for auditions, competitions, etc.
  • Participate in activities such as, but not limited to, Friday Night Recital adjudication, faculty recitals, departmental auditions and juries, workshops, and meetings.

  • Other related duties as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Minimum Education and/or Experience:
  • An undergraduate or graduate degree in music. Combined experience/education may be substituted for minimum education.
  • Prior experience teaching percussion students is required in a group and individual setting.

  • Ability to contribute to a positive, supportive team environment required.
  • Ability to work with a diverse student population required.

  • Ability and desire to network with faculty and those in the community to recruit students from the greater Los Angeles community.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with very diverse faculty, staff, and students.

  • Ability to contribute to a positive, supportive team environment required.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Highly organized.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Physical:
Must be able to see, hear, feel, and use hands to type and grasp objects with fingers. Primarily sedentary with intermittent standing, walking, bending, and stooping; occasional light lifting and carrying of objects weighing 25 pounds or less; light to heavy repetitive use of hands, wrists and forearms while working on a computer.
Emotional:
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships involving interactions and communications personally, by phone and in writing with a variety of individuals and/or groups of individuals from diverse backgrounds on a regular, on-going basis; ability to concentrate on detailed tasks for extended periods of time and/or intermittently while attending to other responsibilities; ability to work effectively under pressure on multiple tasks concurrently while meeting established deadlines and changing priorities.
Working conditions:
Primarily indoor office environment; frequent contact with and interruptions by individuals in person or by phone.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
This is a part-time, non-exempt, onsite position. The hourly pay range is $60.00 to $85.00 commensurate with skills, experience, and ability level. The Colburn School offers paid sick leave and a 403(b)-retirement plan, subject to eligibility requirements.
TO APPLY
Applicants should submit the following materials through the Colburn School's Careers portal at www.colburnschool.edu/careers.
  • Cover letter
  • Statement of Teaching Philosophy
  • CV

ABOUT THE COLBURN SCHOOL
The Colburn School is a world-renowned performing arts institution located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Its mission is to provide the highest quality performing arts education at all levels of development in music and dance, and to foster a vibrant community through a wide range of performances, events, and educational activities.
The Colburn School trains students, from beginners to those about to embark on professional careers. Each year, more than 2,000 students from around the world come to Colburn to benefit from the renowned faculty, exceptional facilities, and focus on excellence that unites the community.
The academic units of the school provide a complete spectrum of music and dance education:
Conservatory of Music - The diploma- and degree-granting Conservatory of Music is distinguished by a unique all-scholarship model, renowned faculty, and outstanding performance opportunities. It prepares the highest level of collegiate musicians for professional careers.
The Music Academy is a highly selective training program for gifted young pre-collegiate musicians, designed to prepare students for conservatory study and performing careers at the highest levels of achievement. This residential program balances performance, musical instruction, and academics.
The Community School of Performing Arts welcomes students of all ages, from seven months old to adults. It offers over 120 classes each year in orchestral instruments, piano, guitar, voice, jazz, music theory, drama, and ensembles including orchestra, choir, and chamber music.
The Trudl Zipper Dance Institute develops performers of all levels, from the pre-professional ballet program in the Dance Academy to beginners starting in Youth Dance. Students of all levels receive training in ballet, tap, and modern genres as part of a comprehensive dance education.
Center for Innovation and Community Impact was created to empower the musical and dance leaders of tomorrow by nurturing students' passion and ability to serve their communities, preparing them for sustainable careers, and embracing the development of innovative ideas. The Colburn School partners with 15 Los Angeles Unified School District schools, 13 of which receive Title I funding, to provide interactive and engaging concerts and instructional sessions to 5,000 students every year.
The Colburn School is currently constructing a transformational addition to our downtown Los Angeles campus, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry with acoustics by acclaimed Nagata Acoustics. This monumental project reflects a deep commitment to both the community and our students and will feature world-class performance venues and innovative learning spaces that foster collaboration and interdisciplinary partnerships throughout the region.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.