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Principal Flute Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Flute information

See salary details

$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do principal flute jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal flute in the United States is $109,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal flute?

Principal Flute players are the lead flutists in an orchestra or ensemble, responsible for playing solo passages, leading the flute section, and often performing important musical lines. They work closely with the conductor and other section principals to ensure cohesive performances. In addition to their musical responsibilities, principal flutists may also help select repertoire, audition new section members, and mentor younger players within the ensemble.

What are some of the unique challenges a principal flute faces when leading the flute section in an orchestra?

As a Principal Flute, you are responsible not only for playing solo passages with precision and artistry but also for leading and unifying the flute section. This means setting the standard for tone, style, and phrasing, and often acting as a liaison between the conductor and your colleagues. Balancing these leadership duties with your own musical preparation can be demanding, especially during intense rehearsal and performance schedules. Additionally, you may be called upon to make quick decisions about interpretation and to support section members, fostering a collaborative and cohesive environment.

What is the difference between Principal Flute vs Second Flute?

AspectPrincipal FluteSecond Flute
CredentialsTypically requires advanced performance degrees and extensive orchestral experienceSimilar credentials, often with less experience required
Work EnvironmentLead performer in orchestras, solo opportunities, and concertmaster rolesSupporting performer, often playing harmony and filling out the flute section
Industry UsageFound in professional orchestras, ensembles, and recording sessionsCommonly employed in orchestras and large ensembles alongside Principal Flute

The Principal Flute is the lead player of the flute section, responsible for solos and overall section leadership, requiring advanced skills and experience. The Second Flute supports the principal, playing harmony and filling out the section. Both roles are essential in orchestral settings, with the Principal Flute often taking on more prominent solos and leadership duties.

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

To thrive as a Principal Flute, you need advanced flute performance skills, a comprehensive knowledge of orchestral repertoire, and typically a degree in music or performance. Familiarity with orchestral audition processes, score reading, and sometimes experience with music notation software are important technical aspects. Exceptional leadership, communication, and teamwork abilities help Principal Flutists guide their section and collaborate effectively with conductors and colleagues. These skills are crucial for delivering high-quality performances, maintaining ensemble cohesion, and setting a musical standard for the flute section.
More about Principal Flute jobs
What states have the most Principal Flute jobs? States with the most job openings for Principal Flute jobs include:
Infographic showing various Principal Flute job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,393 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Adjunct Music Faculty - Precollege and University

Bob Jones University

Greenville, SC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Bob Jones University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

310th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: Bob Jones University Division of Music seeks qualified adjunct faculty instructors to teach university and precollege applied lessons. The successful candidate will show a commitment to the mission of BJU and the Division of Music and will contribute proactively to the spiritual, intellectual and artistic life of this Christian liberal arts university.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Teach applied lessons in primary instrument area
  • Teach in pre-college music lesson program at BJA Elementary School or on university campus.
  • Collaborate with others within the academic school, division and department
  • Actively recruit prospective students for the Division of Music
  • Other duties may include advising students on academic matters, performing in faculty ensembles, and assisting with service duties as needed within the program, division or academic school.
  • Instruments needed: piano, organ, voice, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion, harp, guitar, violin, viola, cello, double bass.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
  • Bachelor's degree in music performance, pedagogy, or music education
  • Successful record of teaching/performing experience at the collegiate level or at levels appropriate to departmental needs

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Display the ability to communicate at a high level musically, verbally and in written communication
  • Display the ability to collaborate successfully with other musicians in rehearsal, performance, and in professional and personal interactions
  • Exhibit a refined level of excellence in personal performance

An applicant must be a born-again Christian who has a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Each applicant must agree with and affirm the Bob Jones University creed, mission (see https://www.bju.edu/about/creed-mission.php) and core biblical doctrines regarding areas such as the Bible, the triune God, man and salvation, etc. Employees are expected to maintain a conservative lifestyle and support Bob Jones University's positions on issues such as beverage alcohol and addictive substances, creation, marriage and human sexuality and the sanctity of life, etc., (https://www.bju.edu/about/positions.php). Employees are to be active members of a local Bible believing church which holds orthodox theology. Applicants must be committed to providing students an excellent, worldclass education from a biblical worldview.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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