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$31.5K

$66.3K

$114K

How much do percussion jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for percussion in the United States is $66,271.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $75,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with a percussion degree?

A percussion degree prepares individuals for careers as professional percussionists, music educators, or studio musicians. Graduates can work in orchestras, bands, or teaching settings, often requiring proficiency with various percussion instruments and music theory. Additional skills in performance, recording, and music production can expand career opportunities.

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 are 5 careers that involve music?

Careers involving music include becoming a percussionist, music teacher, sound engineer, music producer, or concert performer. These roles often require musical skills, knowledge of instruments or audio technology, and sometimes formal training or certifications. They can involve working in studios, live venues, educational settings, or freelance environments.

How do you become a percussionist?

To become a percussionist, one typically learns to play percussion instruments through formal music education, such as attending a music school or taking private lessons. Developing strong rhythm skills, understanding different percussion techniques, and gaining experience performing with ensembles or bands are essential steps. Many percussionists also learn to read music and may pursue certifications or degrees in music performance.

What is a percussionist job?

A percussionist is a musician who specializes in playing percussion instruments such as drums, cymbals, and mallet instruments. They often perform in orchestras, bands, or studio settings, requiring rhythm skills and knowledge of various percussion tools. The role may involve reading sheet music and practicing regularly to maintain timing and technique.

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.

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 percussionists?

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.
More about Percussion jobs
What cities are hiring for Percussion jobs? Cities with the most Percussion job openings:
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Percussion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Percussion job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $66,271 per year, or $31.9 per hour.
Band - Percussion Instructor

Band - Percussion Instructor

Thornton Township High School District 205

South Holland, IL

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

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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