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Percussion Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Percussion Instructor information

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$11K

$61.5K

How much do percussion instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for percussion instructor in the United States is $60,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,500.00 and $60,500.00 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 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 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.
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Marching Band Percussion Instructor - Athletics/Activities

Hillsboro R-III School District

Hillsboro, MO โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Athletics/Activities/Activity Sponsor
Date Posted:
6/19/2026
Location:
District
Date Available:
2026-2027
Closing Date:
Open Until Filled
Position Title: Marching Band Percussion Instructor - Athletics/Activities
Employment Type: Extra Duty (Contract)
Location: Hillsboro High School - Hillsboro, MO
Reports To: Head Band Director
Salary Schedule: Extra Duty - Level 5 (Range $3,450 - $4,164)
Position Summary
Hillsboro High School is seeking a talented, energetic, and dedicated Percussion Technician to join our band program. This position works directly with the Head Band Director to instruct,
develop, and refine the percussion section (battery and front ensemble) during the marching band season, with potential opportunities to assist during the concert/winter seasons.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in percussion performance, a passion for teaching high school students, and the ability to foster a positive, competitive, and inclusive environment.
Essential Duties:
Instruction: Teach fundamental and advanced marching percussion techniques (matched/traditional grip, timing, tuning, and expression) to both the battery and front ensemble.
Rehearsal Management: Lead percussion sectional rehearsals, clean drill and music, and collaborate with the band directors during full-ensemble rehearsals to ensure cohesive musical and visual integration.
Show Preparation: Assist students in learning and memorizing marching show music, warm-ups, and stands/bleachers tunes.
Equipment Maintenance: Oversee the proper care, maintenance, tuning, and loading/unloading of all percussion instruments and equipment.
Mentorship: Maintain a high standard of student conduct, safety, and sportsmanship, serving as a positive role model for all band members.
Schedule Expectations:
Summer Band Camp: Daily attendance during pre-season camps (typically late July through August).
Fall Rehearsals: Availability for after-school rehearsals (typically 2 3 days per week) from August through October/November.
Performances & Competitions: Attendance at all Friday night home football games and Saturday marching band festivals/competitions throughout the fall season.
Physical Demands:
The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. While performing the
duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is frequently required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit..
Mental Demands:
Ability to maintain confidentiality; communicate clearly both orally and in writing
Environmental Conditions:
Exposed to loud noise levels. Regularly exposed to varying inclement outdoor weather conditions for outside activities.
This individual may be exposed to potentially hazardous bodily fluids.
Qualifications & Requirements:
Bachelor's degree (B.A.) from an accredited four-year College or University - preferred
Missouri State Teaching Certificate - preferred
Must successfully pass a standard school district background check and fingerprinting.
Compensation:
Extra Duty Level 5 - Range: $3,450 - $4,164
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should complete this application and submit a resume detailing their marching and teaching experience, along with 2 3 professional references, to the Hillsboro High School Band Directors.