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Saxophone Performance Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Harper College

Adjunct Faculty Saxophone

Palatine, IL

$55/hr

Candidates should possess expertise in saxophone performance and pedagogy of varying genres (Classical, Jazz, etc). The faculty member selected will be expected to conduct and teach students in 100 ...

Harper College

Adjunct Faculty Saxophone

Palatine, IL

$55/hr

Candidates should possess expertise in saxophone performance and pedagogy of varying genres (Classical, Jazz, etc). The faculty member selected will be expected to conduct and teach students in 100 ...

Harper College

Adjunct Faculty Saxophone

Palatine, IL

$55/hr

Candidates should possess expertise in saxophone performance and pedagogy of varying genres (Classical, Jazz, etc). The faculty member selected will be expected to conduct and teach students in 100 ...

Harper College

Adjunct Faculty Saxophone

Palatine, IL · On-site

$55/hr

Candidates should possess expertise in saxophone performance and pedagogy of varying genres (Classical, Jazz, etc). The faculty member selected will be expected to conduct and teach students in 100 ...

DePaul

Adjunct Faculty, Performance

Chicago, IL · On-site

$4.4K - $6.6K/wk

Adjunct Faculty, Performance Full-time Faculty Positions Full-time faculty positions will be posted ... saxophone, jazz trumpet, jazz guitar, and jazz percussion, as well as courses in chamber music ...

Guitar Center

Music Teacher Store 3201

Aurora, IL

$10.50 - $21/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience. * 2 years of ... saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba, ukulele, viola, violin, and voice). About Music ...

Guitar Center

Music Teacher Store 3202

Itasca, IL

$10.50 - $21/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience. * 2 years of ... saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba, ukulele, viola, violin, and voice). About Music ...

Guitar Center

Music Teacher Store 3204

Schaumburg, IL

$11 - $22/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience. * 2 years of ... saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba, ukulele, viola, violin, and voice). About Music ...

Music & Arts

Music Teacher Store 3204

Schaumburg, IL

$11 - $22/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience. * 2 years of ... saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba, ukulele, viola, violin, and voice). About Music ...

Music & Arts

Music Teacher Store 3202

Itasca, IL

$10.50 - $21/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience. * 2 years of ... saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba, ukulele, viola, violin, and voice). About Music ...

Music & Arts

Music Teacher Store 3201

Aurora, IL

$10.50 - $21/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience. * 2 years of ... saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba, ukulele, viola, violin, and voice). About Music ...

Guitar Center

Music Teacher Store 3202

Itasca, IL

$10.50 - $21/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or equivalent experience. * 2 years of ... saxophone, string bass, trombone, trumpet, tuba, ukulele, viola, violin, and voice). About Music ...

All JobsSaxophone Performance JobsSaxophone Performance Jobs in Chicago, IL

Saxophone Performance information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.2K

$102.5K

$158.1K

How much do saxophone performance jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for saxophone performance in Chicago, IL is $102,528.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $129,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Saxophone Performance vs Saxophone Teaching?

AspectSaxophone PerformanceSaxophone Teaching
CredentialsMusic degree, performance experienceMusic degree, teaching certification (optional)
Work EnvironmentConcert halls, recording studios, live venuesMusic schools, private studios, classrooms
Employer & IndustryOrchestras, bands, solo artistsSchools, private students, educational institutions
Primary FocusPerforming and entertaining audiencesTeaching and mentoring students

While both roles require musical skill and knowledge of the saxophone, Saxophone Performance focuses on live performance and recording, whereas Saxophone Teaching emphasizes instruction and student development. Many professionals combine both to diversify their careers.

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

To thrive as a Saxophone Performer, you need advanced proficiency in saxophone technique, music theory, and sight-reading, often supported by formal music education or conservatory training. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), music notation software, and live sound equipment is also valuable. Excellent stage presence, adaptability, and strong collaboration skills help performers connect with audiences and work effectively in ensembles. These abilities are crucial for delivering high-quality performances, maintaining professional versatility, and building a sustainable career in music.

What is saxophone performance?

Saxophone performance is the art and practice of playing the saxophone in various musical settings, such as solo recitals, ensembles, orchestras, or bands. Saxophone performers master a variety of techniques, styles, and repertoires to deliver expressive and skilled musical interpretations. This career often involves regular practice, public performances, and sometimes teaching or recording music. Professional saxophonists may specialize in genres like classical, jazz, pop, or contemporary music. Successful performers typically have formal training and a strong commitment to ongoing musical development.

What are some common challenges saxophone performers face when collaborating with ensembles or bands?

Saxophone performers often encounter challenges in blending their sound and adapting their playing style to fit various ensemble settings, such as jazz bands, orchestras, or small combos. Effective communication and flexibility are key, as the saxophonist may need to balance solo passages with supportive roles, adjust dynamics, and follow a conductor or bandleader's cues. Building strong listening skills and being open to feedback from peers can greatly enhance ensemble cohesion and performance quality.
What are the most commonly searched types of Saxophone Performance jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Saxophone Performance jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Saxophone Performance jobs in Chicago, IL? For Saxophone Performance jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Saxophone Performance jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Saxophone Performance jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Saxophone Performance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Saxophone Performance job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Full Time, and 87% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $102,528 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty Saxophone

Harper College

Palatine, IL

$55/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Harper College rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 613 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Department of Music at Harper College invites applications for an adjunct position in applied instruction. Candidates should possess expertise in saxophone performance and pedagogy of varying genres (Classical, Jazz, etc). The faculty member selected will be expected to conduct and teach students in 100 and 200-level applied instruction lessons in saxophone on the credit side of the Music Department. Other responsibilities can include advising, outreach and recruitment.

Starting Pay Rate: $55 per hour of private lesson instruction. 

Responsibilities of the position: 

  • Teach credit students in 100 and 200-level applied instruction lessons in saxophone
  • Encourage student participation at repertory classes and student recitals
  • Prepare students for and participate in juries
  • Participate in concerts and recruitment events such as the Jazz Invitational, Jazz Faculty Concerts, the Harper Jazz Fest, etc. 

The Department of Music at Harper College is committed to creating an inclusive educational experience that fosters creativity, expression, and a supportive musical community for students of varying cultures, backgrounds and interests. We maintain a proud level of academic excellence, and our goal is to build both academic and creative career paths for our students with opportunities to find representation and identity in their musical studies. We strive to have our educational experience eclectic and current by fusing the benefits of modern technology with traditional study of musical creation, performance and history across various genres and cultures. We care greatly about our surrounding community and have created a place for members to craft their musical interests into fruitful careers, personal enrichment, and stronger engagement with music.  

Priority will be given to applications received by June 8th, 2026.

Education Requirements: A master's degree in Music or a master's degree in a related field with at least 18 graduate credit hours in Music. Demonstrated pedagogical skills and above average competence as a performing professional musician.

Experience Requirements: Preference will be given to applicants who have previous experience teaching at the secondary and/or college levels. 

Required Documents: ***A resume and cover letter are required to complete the application process***

* Official transcripts required upon hire 
* Employment is contingent upon Criminal Background Check.

* Employment sponsorship is not available.

Applicable Benefits: We offer a competitive, semester by semester adjunct pay, with Harper tuition waivers, sick/personal business leave, and a comprehensive Adjunct Faculty Professional Development Program.

Harper College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create an inclusive learning and working environment where individual differences and identities are respected, valued and embraced. We encourage women, people from historically underrepresented groups, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply.

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