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Studio Musician Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

General Pediatrician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$167K - $217K/yr

Cultural district features the Eastman School of Music, The Memorial Art Gallery, and several other museums, theaters, studios, shops, restaurants, and more! * More than 100 wineries, breweries, and ...

General Pediatrician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$170K - $180K/yr

Cultural district features the Eastman School of Music, The Memorial Art Gallery, and several other museums, theaters, studios, shops, restaurants, and more! * More than 100 wineries, breweries, and ...

Studio Musician information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$5

$21

$48

How much do studio musician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for studio musician in Rochester, NY is $21.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Studio Musician Do?

Studio musicians are musicians that perform with a band or solo artist in the studio, but they are not official members of the group. Your responsibilities may include performing at a specific gig or audio session, playing your instrument to help people complete their record, and improvising when necessary to complete or perform a song. Other duties include helping with the arrangement of a song, assisting musicians with studio and live rehearsals, filling in for other musicians when they are not available for a performance, helping the producer and sound engineer with mix-down and recording, and helping to set up musical equipment.

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

To thrive as a Studio Musician, you need advanced proficiency on your instrument, strong sight-reading abilities, and a solid understanding of music theory, often supported by formal music education or extensive experience. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), recording software, and studio equipment is typically required. Adaptability, professionalism, and excellent communication help musicians collaborate effectively with producers and other artists. These skills ensure that studio musicians can deliver high-quality performances efficiently, adapt to various styles, and meet the demands of fast-paced recording environments.

What are studio musicians?

Studio musicians are professional instrumentalists or vocalists who are hired to perform during recording sessions for albums, commercials, films, or other projects. Unlike performing artists or band members, their primary role is to play music in a studio setting, often reading sheet music or following direction from producers. They are valued for their versatility, technical skill, and ability to quickly adapt to different musical styles. Studio musicians may work on a freelance basis and are essential to the production of many recordings, sometimes remaining uncredited to the general public.

How much money do studio musicians make?

Studio musicians' earnings vary based on experience, location, and project scope, but they typically earn between $200 and $1,000 per session. Experienced session players with specialized skills or high-profile credits can earn higher rates, and some work on a freelance basis or through agencies. Payment may include hourly rates, flat fees, or royalties for ongoing projects.

What jobs are in a music studio?

In a music studio, common jobs include recording engineer, mixing engineer, mastering engineer, session musician, producer, and studio assistant. These roles involve operating recording equipment, editing audio, managing sessions, and supporting the production process, often requiring knowledge of digital audio workstations and sound equipment.

How to get work as a studio musician?

To work as a studio musician, develop strong technical skills on your instrument, build a professional portfolio, and network with producers, recording engineers, and artists. Gaining experience through local sessions, creating a demo reel, and being versatile across genres can increase opportunities. Familiarity with recording software and a reliable home studio can also be advantageous.

How do I get a job in a music studio?

To become a studio musician, develop strong instrumental or vocal skills, build a professional portfolio, and gain experience through local gigs or recording sessions. Networking with producers and studio owners, understanding recording equipment, and having a reliable demo can improve job prospects in recording studios.

What are some common challenges studio musicians face during recording sessions?

Studio musicians often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to a variety of musical styles and arrangements, working efficiently under tight deadlines, and interpreting producers’ or artists’ creative directions on the spot. Flexibility and strong sight-reading skills are essential, as sessions can range from structured to highly improvisational. Additionally, studio musicians must communicate effectively with engineers, producers, and other musicians to ensure the final recording meets the desired artistic vision.
What are popular job titles related to Studio Musician jobs in Rochester, NY? For Studio Musician jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Studio Musician jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Studio Musician job openings:
Infographic showing various Studio Musician job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 41% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,257 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Instrumental Music Instructor (Percussion)

Instrumental Music Instructor (Percussion)

SUNY Geneseo

Geneseo, NY • On-site

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Vacancy Announcement
Position Information
Campus Title
Instrumental Music Instructor (Percussion)
Department
Music
Position Summary
SUNY Geneseo is accepting applications for anticipated part-time temporary instrumental music instructors with specialization in percussion instruments. Duties include teaching lessons to majors and non-majors and coaching a section of the Geneseo Symphony Orchestra and/or of other student ensembles.
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and applicants will be contacted as needed.
Required Qualifications
Required Qualifications :
  • Master's degree in instrumental performance, or equivalent
  • Evidence of successful studio teaching experience
  • Must demonstrate a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive teaching environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Instrumental coaching on the post-secondary level
  • Understanding of how the music program is an integral part of a liberal arts education