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Professional Drummer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Drummer

New York, NY ยท On-site

$35 - $49/hr

Fulfilling professional responsibilities of a part-time/temporary faculty member * Utilizing online classrooms and sustaining student engagement when requested * Consistent communication and accurate ...

Packer/Drummer

Houston, TX

$14 - $17/hr

We support career advancement through professional training and development. Brown & Root Industrial Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for ...

Packer/Drummer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

We support career advancement through professional training and development. Brown & Root Industrial Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for ...

Packer/Drummer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$14 - $17/hr

We support career advancement through professional training and development. Brown & Root Industrial Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for ...

Packer/Drummer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$14 - $17/hr

We support career advancement through professional training and development. Brown & Root Industrial Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for ...

Activities Crew

Gettysburg, PA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

As a part of our Activities Crew at Drummer Boy Campground in Gettysburg, you will implement weekly ... Communicate regularly and professionally with managers and other staff members. Experience & skills ...

Activities Crew

Gettysburg, PA

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

As a part of our Activities Crew at Drummer Boy Campground in Gettysburg, you will implement weekly ... Communicate regularly and professionally with managers and other staff members. Experience & skills ...

Housekeeper

Gettysburg, PA

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

As a part of our Housekeeping team at Drummer Boy Campground in Gettysburg, you will make sure that ... professional manner and with patience and concern. * Solve guest-related problems and address ...

Operator 1 Drumming

Geismar, LA ยท On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

... sided drummer filler station via an HMI (PLC) including but not limited to; physical package ... Posses a professional/representative appearance and behavior * 1-2 years of relevant experience in ...

Housekeeper

Gettysburg, PA ยท On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

As a part of our Housekeeping team at Drummer Boy Campground in Gettysburg, you will make sure that ... professional manner and with patience and concern. * Solve guest-related problems and address ...

Housekeeper

Gettysburg, PA

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

As a part of our Housekeeping team at Drummer Boy Campground in Gettysburg, you will make sure that ... professional manner and with patience and concern. * Solve guest-related problems and address ...

Housekeeper

Gettysburg, PA ยท On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

As a part of our Housekeeping team at Drummer Boy Campground in Gettysburg, you will make sure that ... professional manner and with patience and concern. * Solve guest-related problems and address ...

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Professional Drummer information

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$11K

$12.5K

$16.5K

How much do professional drummer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional drummer in the United States is $12,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12,500.00 and $12,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Professional Drummer, you need advanced musical proficiency, strong rhythm and timing, and a solid understanding of music theory, often backed by formal training or significant performance experience. Mastery of acoustic and electronic drum kits, familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), and knowledge of sound equipment are typically required. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and strong communication skills help drummers collaborate effectively with other musicians and adapt to various musical styles. These skills ensure consistent performance quality, versatility across genres, and reliability in both studio and live settings.

How much does a professional drummer make?

The average salary for a professional drummer varies widely based on experience, location, and the type of employment. Typically, they earn between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, with top session drummers and those in high-profile bands earning significantly more. Many drummers supplement income through teaching, studio work, or touring.

What jobs can you get as a drummer?

Professional drummers can find employment in various settings such as touring with bands, studio recording sessions, teaching music lessons, working in theater or musical productions, and performing at events or venues. These roles often require strong rhythm skills, musical knowledge, and the ability to read sheet music or follow cues.

What are professional drummers?

Professional drummers are musicians who specialize in playing the drums and percussion instruments, often as their primary occupation. They may perform with bands, orchestras, or as solo artists in live concerts, recording sessions, or on tours. Many professional drummers also teach, record instructional material, or work as session musicians for various music genres. Their role is crucial in providing rhythm, timing, and dynamics to musical performances. To succeed, professional drummers require strong technical skills, a good sense of timing, and the ability to collaborate with other musicians.

What is the difference between Professional Drummer vs Session Musician?

AspectProfessional DrummerSession Musician
CredentialsOften formal training or extensive experienceVaries; may have diverse backgrounds, often highly skilled
Work EnvironmentLive performances, tours, studio recordingsStudio recordings, live sessions, remote work
Industry UsageMusic bands, orchestras, touring actsRecording studios, production companies, multiple genres

While both Professional Drummers and Session Musicians are highly skilled percussionists, Professional Drummers typically focus on live performances and touring, whereas Session Musicians are primarily hired for studio recordings and short-term projects. The roles often overlap, but their main work environments and job expectations differ.

Does drumming help with dyslexia?

Professional drummers often develop strong auditory processing and rhythm skills, which can support reading and language development in individuals with dyslexia. Engaging in rhythmic activities like drumming may improve timing, focus, and neural connections related to language processing, but it is not a standalone treatment for dyslexia. Combining drumming with specialized educational interventions is recommended for best results.

What is the 80 20 rule for drummers?

The 80/20 rule for drummers suggests that approximately 80% of the results come from 20% of the efforts, meaning focusing on key skills like timing, groove, and basic patterns yields the most improvement. Prioritizing fundamental techniques and consistent practice helps drummers develop efficiently and perform reliably in various musical settings.

What are some common challenges professional drummers face when working with different bands or artists?

Professional drummers often need to quickly adapt to a variety of musical styles and personalities when playing with different bands or artists. Each group may have unique expectations for timing, dynamics, and performance style, which can require strong listening skills and flexibility. Additionally, drummers are frequently responsible for maintaining the rhythm and energy of live performances, which can be physically demanding and require excellent stamina. Collaboration and clear communication with other musicians and producers are essential to ensure a cohesive sound and a successful show.
What cities are hiring for Professional Drummer jobs? Cities with the most Professional Drummer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drummer jobs? The most popular types of Drummer jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Drummer jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Drummer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Professional Drummer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 11% As Needed, 6% Temporary, 80% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $12,500 per year, or $6 per hour.
Drummer

Drummer

AMDA

New York, NY โ€ข On-site

$35 - $49/hr

Part-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

AMDA College of the Performing Arts, with campuses in New York City and Hollywood, is one of the foremost post-secondary performing arts colleges in the country. AMDA offers various pathways for students to receive unparalleled performing arts education taught by world-class industry professionals, including Professional Conservatory Certificates as well as undergraduate and graduate degrees (Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Associate of Occupational Studies, Master of Fine Arts and Master of Arts).
Primary Responsibilities:
  • Maintaining current knowledge in subject matter areas as it relates to a working knowledge of musical theater literature
  • Providing accompaniment in accordance with established curriculum, course outlines and class schedules
  • Supporting the lead teacher in creating and maintaining a student-centered environment which emphasizes learning, encourages free discussion of ideas and critical thinking
  • Maintaining appropriate standards of professional conduct and ethics both online and in-person
  • Fulfilling professional responsibilities of a part-time/temporary faculty member
  • Utilizing online classrooms and sustaining student engagement when requested
  • Consistent communication and accurate reporting
  • Contribution to the school community, including:
    • Committee Participation
    • Active Engagement in required training and initiatives
    • Viewing student performances
  • Upholding AMDA's core values of equity and inclusion in the classroom and commitment to an environment of student safety and support
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field; commensurate performance/professional experience may be considered
  • Must have strong sight-reading ability
  • An appreciation for the traditions of performing arts academic setting
  • Demonstrated leadership skills; style that emphasizes collaboration, teamwork, and facilitation
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills
  • Commitment to academic excellence, exceptional service and providing a dynamic climate for life-long learning
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and implement instructional approaches with the effective use of technology.
  • Ability to use effective strategies to engage students in their learning both in-person and online
  • Ability to appreciate alternative viewpoints; ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people
  • Have a commitment and sensitivity to, as well as an understanding of, the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of college students, including those with physical or learning disabilities as it relates to differences in learning styles
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in a related field
  • Experience with Canvas LMS
  • Transposition skills in the moment
Eligibility Requirements - Performance Credentials:
  • AMDA differentiates itself from other performing arts colleges by having students learn from "working faculty." Applicants must have performance experience within the industry; preference will be given to instructors with recent/current performance credits
  • Experience with a variety of styles and periods is a plus
Position Information:
  • $35-$49 per hour
  • $35 per auxiliary hour
  • This position is part time (less than 29 hours per week), in-person commitment. All candidates must reside in the New York area or be willing to relocate. AMDA will not provide a relocation package.
  • This position is subject to a background check upon a conditional offer of employment and a reference check.
Diversity and Qualifications:
AMDA is fully committed to diversity, inclusivity, and equity throughout the teaching and learning process. We encourage applications from individuals who have extensive experience working with students from diverse backgrounds. Successful candidates will have a sensitivity to, and understanding of, the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of our students, including disabilities that may affect students' development and learning styles. Members of traditionally underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.
AMDA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in which no person is subjected to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military and veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, placement, supervision, promotion, working conditions, termination, layoff, demotion, transfer, compensation, and training.
Employment Type: Part-Time