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Percussion Performance Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience. * 2 years of ... mandolin, oboe, percussion, piano, piccolo, saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba ...

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience. * 2 years of ... mandolin, oboe, percussion, piano, piccolo, saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba ...

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience. * 2 years of ... mandolin, oboe, percussion, piano, piccolo, saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba ...

Percussion Performance information

See Boston, MA salary details

$35.3K

$74.1K

$121.7K

How much do percussion performance jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for percussion performance in Boston, MA is $74,145.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,400.00 and $90,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is a Percussion Performance job?

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 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 popular job titles related to Percussion Performance jobs in Boston, MA? For Percussion Performance jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Percussion Performance jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Percussion Performance jobs in Boston, MA are:
Infographic showing various Percussion Performance job openings in Boston, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $74,145 per year, or $35.6 per hour.
Middle School Band Director (Grades 4-8)

Middle School Band Director (Grades 4-8)

The Galman Group

Hingham, MA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
The Band Director is a full-time, 10-month role responsible for leading Derby Academy's performing arts programs throughout the academic year. Derby seeks a passionate and skilled Middle School Band Director to lead and grow our instrumental music program for grades 4-8. The ideal candidate is a dynamic music educator who fosters a love of music, builds technical proficiency, and creates an inclusive and joyful environment for student musicians of all abilities. Additional compensation is available for after school music private lesson instruction. Additionally, the Director will expand programming to enhance offerings, provide enrichment opportunities for students, and engage with the community to support Derby's mission.
  • Design and implement a developmentally appropriate band curriculum for students in grades 4-8.
  • Conduct ensembles including 4th Grade Beginning Band, 5th Grade Band, 6th Grade Band, and 7/8th Grade Concert and Jazz Bands, or similar groupings based on enrollment and skill levels and student interest.
  • Plan and direct performances for school concerts, assemblies, and special events throughout the year.
  • Collaborate with colleagues in the Performing Arts Department to align curriculum, co-produce concerts, and integrate interdisciplinary opportunities.
  • Provide instrumental music instruction, including group lessons, rehearsals, and possible individual or sectional coaching.
  • Foster positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues, encouraging student growth, creativity, and confidence.
  • Support student musicians in building strong practice habits, ensemble collaboration, and performance readiness.
  • Manage band-related logistics, including scheduling, ensemble rosters, equipment maintenance, rentals & inventory, and budget planning.
  • Contribute to the broader life of the school, including advisory, lunch/recess duty, and participation in faculty meetings and professional development.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing the band program while contributing directly to the performing arts curriculum, enriching the student experience and becoming an engaged member of the Derby community. A competitive salary and benefits package includes generous funding of professional development. The salary is based on the Derby faculty salary scale that takes into consideration years of experience and degrees. The range for this position is $65,241 to $100,677.
Derby Academy values inclusivity and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds or those who have experience in cultural competency work to apply. Interested candidates should submit their application, complete with cover letter, resume, and references, by applying here No phone calls, please.
Derby Academy is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive educational community and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, gender, color, veteran status, physical ability, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin or any other state or federally protected classifications. Derby Academy is an equal opportunity employer.
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or a related field (Master's preferred).
  • Demonstrated success teaching middle school band and instrumental music.
  • Proficiency in woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments, with performance experience in at least one of the instrumental families.
  • Strong conducting skills and experience leading student ensembles.
  • Excellent classroom management and communication skills.
  • Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that values creativity, collaboration, innovation, and student engagement.
  • Flexibility and a collaborative spirit.

Salary Description
Scale based on education and experience