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Professional Songwriter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ST CROIX HOSPICE LLC

Music Therapist

Green Bay, WI · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

St. Croix Hospice

Music Therapist

Waukesha, WI · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

St. Croix Hospice

Music Therapist

Baraboo, WI · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

St. Croix Hospice

Music Therapist

Eau Claire, WI

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

ST CROIX HOSPICE LLC

Music Therapist

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

ST CROIX HOSPICE LLC

Music Therapist

Harrisonville, MO · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

St. Croix Hospice

Music Therapist

Green Bay, WI

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

St. Croix Hospice

Music Therapist

Strawberry Point, IA · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

St. Croix Hospice

Music Therapist

Cameron, WI · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

ST CROIX HOSPICE LLC

Music Therapist

WI · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

ST CROIX HOSPICE LLC

Music Therapist

Platteville, WI · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

ST CROIX HOSPICE LLC

Music Therapist

Eau Claire, WI · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

ST CROIX HOSPICE LLC

Music Therapist

Denison, IA · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

ST CROIX HOSPICE LLC

Music Therapist

Wausau, WI · On-site

Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions ... Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities * Paid time off and paid holidays

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All JobsProfessional Songwriter Jobs

Professional Songwriter information

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$32

How much do professional songwriter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional songwriter in the United States is $21.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Professional Songwriter vs Music Composer?

AspectProfessional SongwriterMusic Composer
CredentialsMusic theory knowledge, songwriting experienceMusic theory, composition skills, sometimes formal education
Work EnvironmentMusic studios, freelance, publishing companiesFilm, TV, video game industries, orchestras
Industry UsagePopular music, songwriting for artistsScoring for media, classical, film, and TV

While both roles involve creating music, a Professional Songwriter primarily writes lyrics and melodies for songs, often for commercial release or artists. A Music Composer focuses on creating original music scores for media like films, TV, or video games. The skills and environments overlap but differ in their end goals and industry applications.

What does a professional songwriter do?

A professional songwriter creates original music and lyrics for songs, which may be performed by themselves or by other artists. They collaborate with musicians, producers, and sometimes lyricists to craft compelling melodies and stories that resonate with audiences. Songwriters often work in various genres and may contribute to albums, commercials, films, or television. Their job involves creativity, strong musical knowledge, and understanding current trends in the music industry. Many professional songwriters also handle the business side, such as pitching songs or negotiating publishing deals.

What jobs can I get as a songwriter?

As a professional songwriter, you can work in various roles such as writing songs for artists, producing music for films or commercials, or collaborating with music publishers. Many songwriters also work as session musicians, music composers, or in music licensing, often requiring strong musical skills and industry connections.

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

To thrive as a Professional Songwriter, you need strong musical composition abilities, lyrical creativity, and a solid understanding of music theory, often supported by formal training or experience in music. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Logic Pro or Ableton Live, as well as knowledge of copyright and publishing processes, is typically required. Excellent communication, collaboration, and adaptability help songwriters work effectively with artists, producers, and other industry professionals. These skills and qualities are vital for producing compelling music, navigating the competitive industry, and building lasting professional relationships.

What are some common challenges professional songwriters face when collaborating with artists and producers?

Professional songwriters often encounter challenges when balancing their creative vision with the preferences of artists and producers. Building effective communication skills is essential to ensure that everyone's ideas are heard and integrated smoothly. Additionally, navigating feedback and revisions can require flexibility and openness to change, as songs may undergo several iterations before final approval. Successful songwriters foster collaborative relationships by being adaptable and maintaining a positive, solution-oriented attitude throughout the creative process.

How much money do professional songwriters make?

Professional songwriters' earnings vary widely based on experience, success, and the type of work, with average annual incomes ranging from $30,000 to over $100,000. Successful songwriters who have hit songs or work with major artists can earn significantly more through royalties, advances, and licensing deals. Many also supplement income through songwriting for commercials, TV, or film projects.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

Professional songwriters can earn $10,000 or more per month through royalties, licensing, and commissions, especially with successful hits or a strong reputation. Other high-earning jobs without a degree include real estate brokers, sales managers, and entrepreneurs who leverage skills, networks, and experience to generate substantial income. Success in these roles often depends on talent, industry knowledge, and business acumen rather than formal education.

What is the 80/20 rule in songwriting?

The 80/20 rule in songwriting suggests that approximately 80% of a song's impact comes from 20% of its elements, such as key lyrics or melodies. As a professional songwriter, focusing on refining the most influential parts can improve efficiency and effectiveness in creating compelling songs.

What Does a Professional Songwriter Do?

Professional songwriters compose music and lyrics for songs. They may record the song themselves or sell the song to other artists or studios for someone else to record. As a professional songwriter, you develop music and record samples to establish how the song should be performed. Those who sell their music may help the artist or band capture the right sound and work with the music producer to add accompanying background instruments to make the sound full and unique. You may also work with an artist to create music to accompany visuals, collaborate with other staff on a project to create songs with specific tunes or concepts, or develop music for a particular band or singer. Professional songwriters should not be confused with lyricists; the latter only writes words for existing songs, while professional songwriters also create melodies.

More about Professional Songwriter jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional Songwriter jobs? Cities with the most Professional Songwriter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Songwriter jobs? The most popular types of Songwriter jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Songwriter jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Songwriter jobs include:
Professional Songwriter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Songwriter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,338 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Music Therapist

Music Therapist

ST CROIX HOSPICE LLC

South Sioux City, NE • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

St. Croix Hospice rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 43 rated hospices

Job description

At St. Croix Hospice, we believe in the power of compassionate care. Like the river that inspired our name and takes great skill to navigate, St. Croix Hospice guides patients and their families through the end-of-life journey. We are committed to ensuring the highest quality of life for our patients, empowering them to make the most of their time with dignity, comfort and respect. If you are ready to be part of our deeply compassionate family of caregivers guiding extraordinary life experiences, then we invite you to join our team, where your work truly matters.
Music therapists use the power of music to provide comfort and connection where conventional care falls short. Through personalized musical experiences, they help patients find moments of joy and peace during challenging times. This role combines artistic passion with clinical knowledge, offering the chance to make a meaningful difference in people's lives through the healing art of music therapy.
If you're a compassionate Music therapist who values meaningful patient connections and autonomy in your practice, we'd love to meet you.
Music Therapist Requirements & Core Responsibilities:
  • Degree in Music from an accredited school
  • Ability to pass background, consumer report, and drug test.
  • Provide music therapy per plan of care; assess patients and determine effectiveness.
  • Implement interventions to relieve symptoms and support emotional, physical, and spiritual comfort.
  • Use techniques such as relaxation, lyric analysis, songwriting, and life review; document sessions promptly.
  • Educate team, maintain HIPAA compliance, and participate in interdisciplinary meetings and quality improvement.

Benefits & Schedule:
  • Schedule: 8:00am to 5:00pm, Full-time position
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Company-paid short/long-term disability and basic life insurance
  • 401(k) with up to 4% company match
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
  • Paid time off and paid holidays

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