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Studio Musician Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

University of Rochester

Geneticist

Rochester, NY · On-site

Cultural district features the Eastman School of Music, Memorial Art Gallery, and several other museums, theaters, studios, shops, restaurants, and more * 6-hour drive to New York City, 3.5 hours to ...

University of Rochester

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 ...

University of Rochester

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 ...

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Studio Musician information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$5

$21

$48

How much do studio musician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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 is a studio musician?

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.

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 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.
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Studio Musician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Studio Musician job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,257 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Instrumental Music Instructor (Percussion)

SUNY Geneseo

Geneseo, NY • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 20 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

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