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Percussion Performance Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

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Percussion Performance information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$32.6K

$68.4K

$112.3K

How much do percussion performance jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for percussion performance in Pennsylvania is $68,413.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,100.00 and $83,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is percussion performance?

A Percussion Performance job involves playing percussion instruments in live or recorded settings, such as orchestras, bands, theater productions, or studio sessions. Percussionists may perform with drum sets, mallet instruments, hand percussion, or orchestral percussion. They often collaborate with other musicians, interpret sheet music, and sometimes improvise. Professional percussionists must maintain strong technical skills, timing, and versatility across different musical styles. Many also teach, compose, or arrange music as part of their career.

What are the typical career paths and advancement opportunities for a percussion performance professional?

Percussion Performance professionals often start their careers performing in orchestras, bands, or as part of live ensembles, and may also find opportunities in recording studios or as touring musicians. Over time, many expand their roles to include teaching, composing, or arranging music, while others may pursue leadership positions within ensembles or music organizations. Some percussionists also develop solo careers or specialize in unique genres or world percussion styles. Advancement often depends on building a strong reputation, networking within the industry, and continually developing your skill set. This wide range of possibilities makes Percussion Performance a dynamic and rewarding career path for those passionate about music.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the percussion performance position, and why are they important?

To excel in Percussion Performance, strong musicianship, rhythmic precision, and proficiency in a variety of percussion instruments are essential, typically demonstrated through formal music training or a degree in music performance. Familiarity with percussion notation, metronomes, and digital audio workstations (DAWs) is often required for rehearsals and recordings. Collaboration, adaptability, and effective communication are key soft skills for working within ensembles and orchestras. Mastery of these abilities ensures high-quality performances and seamless integration within musical groups or production settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Percussion Performance jobs in Pennsylvania?

The most popular types of Percussion Performance jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What are popular job titles related to Percussion Performance jobs in Pennsylvania?

For Percussion Performance jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Percussion Performance jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

The top searched job categories for Percussion Performance jobs in Pennsylvania are:

Infographic showing various Percussion Performance job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, and 64% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,413 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Adjunct Music Preparatory School Percussion Instructor

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site


Carnegie Mellon University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 10 employees

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 623 rated colleges and universities

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Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description
The Carnegie Mellon University School of Music's Music Preparatory School is seeking an adjunct instructor of percussion.
The Music Preparatory School is a dynamic pre-college program where professional musicians and educators inspire and train talented young musicians from across the Pittsburgh region. Serving students ages 4 to 18, the program is rooted in the belief that comprehensive, high-quality music education can transform lives and foster lifelong artistic growth. The curriculum pairs individualized instruction in piano, strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass), guitar, voice, and percussion with a broad spectrum of group classes, including Dalcroze Eurhythmics, Musicianship, Theory and Composition, and Jazz & Improvisation. The Preparatory School is an integral part of the Carnegie Mellon School of Music, offering aspiring young artists a strong foundation in both technical proficiency and creative expression.
Qualifications
Applicants must have at least a Bachelor's degree in Percussion Performance and demonstrated experience teaching children.
Application Instructions
Please submit cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the contact information for at least 3 references.


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