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Percussion Instructor Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

... hard to find instructors who are experts in their instrument. We take care of all the ... mandolin, oboe, percussion, piano, piccolo, saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba ...

Percussion Instructor information

See Kentucky salary details

$9.2K

$51.6K

How much do percussion instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for percussion instructor in Kentucky is $50,756.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $50,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a percussion instructor?

A percussion instructor is a music educator who specializes in teaching students how to play percussion instruments, such as drums, xylophones, marimbas, and cymbals. They work with individuals or groups, often in school bands, percussion ensembles, or private lessons, to develop technique, rhythm, and musicality. Percussion instructors may also design and arrange percussion parts, prepare students for performances, and help them improve their overall musicianship.

What does a percussion instructor do?

A percussion instructor teaches students the fundamentals and advanced concepts of playing drums, cymbals, and other percussive musical instruments. The percussion section, also called the drumline, helps players in a marching band keep in time with one another on the field. In this position, your job duties are to teach songs, cadences, and other types of techniques used for playing percussion instruments. Although you may be proficient in a particular instrument, you should be competent enough with all of them to be able to provide instruction. In larger bands, particularly at the college level, you work with horn and woodwind instructors to facilitate performances.

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

To thrive as a Percussion Instructor, you need a solid background in percussion performance, music theory, and instructional techniques, typically supported by a music degree or significant teaching experience. Familiarity with various percussion instruments, music notation software, and ensemble management tools is often necessary. Strong communication, patience, and motivational skills help engage students and foster a positive learning environment. These skills ensure effective teaching, student progress, and the successful management of individual or group percussion instruction.

How does a percussion instructor typically collaborate with band directors and other music staff?

Percussion Instructors often work closely with band directors and fellow music educators to develop cohesive rehearsal plans, select suitable repertoire, and ensure that percussion parts integrate well with the ensemble. They may attend regular staff meetings, communicate about student progress, and coordinate sectional rehearsals. This collaboration is important for maintaining consistent teaching methods and achieving the ensemble's overall musical goals.

What is the difference between Percussion Instructor vs Drum Teacher?

AspectPercussion InstructorDrum Teacher
CredentialsMusic degree or percussion certificationMusic background, often with percussion or drum focus
Work EnvironmentMusic schools, private studios, educational institutionsPrivate lessons, music stores, schools
Industry UsageTeaching various percussion instruments and techniquesPrimarily focused on drum set instruction
Search IntentLooking for percussion-specific instructionSearching for drum lessons or drum teachers

While both roles involve teaching percussion instruments, a Percussion Instructor typically covers a broad range of percussion instruments and techniques, often in educational settings. A Drum Teacher mainly focuses on teaching drum set skills, often to students interested in contemporary music. The choice depends on the specific instrument or style you want to learn.

What are popular job titles related to Percussion Instructor jobs in Kentucky?

For Percussion Instructor jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Percussion Instructor jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Percussion Instructor jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Percussion Instructor jobs in KY?

For Percussion Instructor jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Percussion Instructor job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,756 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Head Marching Band Instructor- Colorguard

Florence, KY • On-site


Boone County Schools
Education Programs Administration • 1 - 5K employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 638 rated elementary and secondary schools

Good employer

Respectful managers


Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

TITLE:  Head Marching Band Instructor

QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. Has a valid Kentucky teaching certificate; or
  2. Holds a valid Emergency Certificate for Substitute Teaching under the qualifications outlined in 16 KAR 2:120 Sec. 2 (7)(b);
  3. Has experience in one or more of the following areas: instrumental music with emphasis in percussive arts, band conducting, color guard, or marching band visual design
  4. Has the ability to communicate effectively with students, faculty, parents, and the community

REPORTS TO:  Band Director

JOB GOAL:  To provide leadership and instruction within the marching band program.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Support the marching band program during the school year by providing after-school instruction in one or more of the following areas: percussion instruments, color guard, winter guard, or visual aspects of performance
  2. Coordinate and schedule all after-school practices with approval of the Band Director
  3. Have all students under supervision of certified personnel at all times at approved after school programs
  4. Performs other duties consistent with the position assigned as may be requested by the supervisor  

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

  • Stipend
  • Board Approved 5-10-07 Revised  1/10/2019




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