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Percussion Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty, Performance

Chicago, IL · On-site

$4.4K - $6.6K/wk

... tuba); percussion, guitar, piano, harpsichord, and harp; jazz piano, jazz bass, jazz saxophone, jazz trumpet, jazz guitar, and jazz percussion, as well as courses in chamber music, jazz combos ...

Music & Arts

Music Repair Technician

Itasca, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Skilled understanding and function of one or all brass, woodwind, percussion and orchestral instruments, and the ability to repair same in a timely and efficient manner Perferred Requirements: * 4 ...

Life Time

Stretch Specialist

Cary, IL · On-site

Leads clients through recovery sessions using techniques like assisted stretching, hypervolt percussion, and breathing drills * Reads, watches, and engages in all required training's associated with ...

Life Time

Stretch Specialist

Highland Park, IL · On-site

Leads clients through recovery sessions using techniques like assisted stretching, hypervolt percussion, and breathing drills * Reads, watches, and engages in all required training's associated with ...

Life Time

Stretch Specialist

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

Leads clients through recovery sessions using techniques like assisted stretching, hypervolt percussion, and breathing drills * Reads, watches, and engages in all required training's associated with ...

Life Time, Inc.

Stretch Specialist

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

Leads clients through recovery sessions using techniques like assisted stretching, hypervolt percussion, and breathing drills * Reads, watches, and engages in all required training's associated with ...

Life Time

Stretch Specialist

Northbrook, IL · On-site

Leads clients through recovery sessions using techniques like assisted stretching, hypervolt percussion, and breathing drills * Reads, watches, and engages in all required training's associated with ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPercussion JobsPercussion Jobs in Chicago, IL

Percussion information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$32.5K

$68.3K

$117.4K

How much do percussion jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for percussion in Chicago, IL is $68,269.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $77,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a percussion?

Percussionists are musicians who play percussion instruments, which include drums, cymbals, xylophones, marimbas, tambourines, and many other instruments that produce sound when struck, shaken, or scraped. They play a crucial role in musical ensembles, providing rhythm, texture, and special effects. Percussionists often need to be versatile, as they may be required to play multiple instruments during a single performance or recording session.

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

To thrive as a Percussionist, you need strong musical proficiency, rhythm, and coordination, often supported by formal music education or specialized training. Familiarity with various percussion instruments, sheet music, and sometimes digital audio workstations or recording equipment is essential. Excellent teamwork, discipline, and adaptability are key soft skills for collaborating with other musicians and adjusting to different styles or performance settings. These skills ensure high-quality performances, effective collaboration, and professional versatility in diverse musical environments.

How does a percussionist typically collaborate with other musicians in an ensemble or orchestra setting?

Percussionists play a crucial role in ensembles and orchestras by providing rhythm, texture, and special effects. They work closely with conductors to ensure precise timing and often coordinate with other sections, especially the rhythm section and brass. Communication and adaptability are vital, as percussionists may switch between different instruments during a single performance and must be attentive to cues from both the conductor and fellow musicians. Collaboration is essential to achieve a cohesive sound and a successful performance.

What is the difference between Percussion vs Drummer?

AspectPercussionDrummer
Required SkillsKnowledge of various percussion instruments, rhythm, and timingSpecialized in drum set playing, rhythm, and coordination
Work EnvironmentOrchestras, bands, studios, live performancesBands, orchestras, studio recordings, live shows
CertificationsNone typically required, but percussion-specific training helpfulNone typically required, but drum certifications or lessons common
Industry UsageBroadly used across genres, including classical, jazz, and popular musicPrimarily in bands, ensembles, and popular music settings

While both percussionists and drummers play rhythm instruments, percussionists have a broader focus on various percussion instruments, whereas drummers specialize in drum sets. Percussionists often work in diverse musical settings, while drummers are more common in band and ensemble contexts. Understanding these differences helps clarify job roles and expectations in the music industry.

What are popular job titles related to Percussion jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Percussion jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Percussion jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Percussion jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Percussion jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Percussion job openings:

Percussion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Percussion job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, and 47% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,269 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Band - Percussion Instructor

Thornton Township High School District 205

South Holland, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Athletics/Activities
Date Posted:
5/22/2026
Location:
Thornridge High School
(High-Needs School)
Closing Date:
07/31/2026
Percussion Band Instructor:
A member of the comprehensive overall Thornridge High School Band Program Including Marching Band, Drumline, Chamber Ensembles, and Beginning Bands. The Percussion band Instructor will provide administrative, developmental and sequential support to all percussion musicians in the band program. The director will have the necessary skills to provide a well-rounded rehearsals and performance schedules. He or she will have leadership skills to maintain a quality environment for the success of all band student. Also he or she will have the public relationship skills to ensure an inclusive relationship with faculty, staff, parental and community involvement and other responsibilities as discussed and aligned with the Band Director, Activities Director and Administration.

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