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Weekend Background Music Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Harper College

CE Instructor- Voice

Palatine, IL · On-site

The Harper College Community Music and Arts Center seeks a voice instructor to provide instruction ... The position is dependent on enrollment and includes evening and weekend work, as well as ...

Harper College

CE Instructor- Voice

Palatine, IL · On-site

The Harper College Community Music and Arts Center seeks a voice instructor to provide instruction ... The position is dependent on enrollment and includes evening and weekend work, as well as ...

Harper College

CE Instructor- Voice

Palatine, IL · On-site

The Harper College Community Music and Arts Center seeks a voice instructor to provide instruction ... The position is dependent on enrollment and includes evening and weekend work, as well as ...

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All JobsBackground Music JobsWeekend Background Music JobsWeekend Background Music Jobs in Chicago, IL

Weekend Background Music information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.4K

$59.5K

$125.2K

How much do weekend background music jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for weekend background music in Chicago, IL is $59,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,200.00 and $65,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a weekend background music job?

A Weekend Background Music job typically involves curating, scheduling, or playing music in venues such as restaurants, cafes, retail stores, or event spaces during weekends. The goal is to create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere for customers or guests by selecting appropriate background tracks that suit the ambiance and clientele. This role may involve working with sound equipment, understanding music genres, and sometimes performing live or managing playlists. Weekend shifts are common due to higher foot traffic and special events. Strong attention to detail and a good sense of mood setting are essential for success in this position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background music programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Background Music Programmer, you need a solid understanding of music theory, audio editing, and playlist curation, often supported by experience in music production or audio engineering. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), music licensing platforms, and sound management systems is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and an ability to interpret the mood and atmosphere desired by clients are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure the music selections enhance the environment and meet both client and audience expectations.

What is the difference between Weekend Background Music vs Weekend Event DJ?

AspectWeekend Background MusicWeekend Event DJ
CredentialsNone required, often self-taught or basic music knowledgeMusic or DJ certification preferred, technical skills
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafes, retail stores, private eventsParties, weddings, corporate events, clubs
Industry UsageBackground ambiance, creating atmosphereEntertainment, active music mixing, audience engagement
Search & Comparison IntentBackground music setup, ambient music jobsDJ services, event entertainment jobs

Weekend Background Music involves playing ambient or playlist music to enhance environments like cafes or retail stores, requiring minimal technical skills. In contrast, Weekend Event DJs actively entertain audiences at parties or weddings, often needing DJ certifications and mixing skills. Both roles are common in the entertainment industry but serve different purposes and environments.

What are the typical duties and expectations for someone working in weekend background music programming at a venue or broadcast?

In a weekend background music programming role, your primary responsibility is to curate and manage playlists that enhance the atmosphere for customers or listeners, whether in a retail space, hospitality venue, or radio station. You may be expected to monitor audience reactions, adjust music selections on the fly, and ensure sound quality and transitions are smooth. Collaboration with event coordinators, venue managers, or broadcast producers is common to align music choices with the desired mood or event schedule. Attention to detail and the ability to anticipate crowd preferences are crucial for success in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Background Music jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Background Music jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Weekend Background Music jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weekend Background Music job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,472 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Music Instructor

BENSENVILLE PARK DISTRICT

Bensenville, IL

$16 - $18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Under the direction of the Cultural & Fine Arts Supervisor, the Music Instructor plans, organizes, and teaches music classes, is responsible for creating class curriculum, demonstrates music techniques, and assists with performances.

DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Maintain a safe, energetic, and motivational teaching atmosphere
  • Instruct ages 5 and up in a variety of music techniques such as piano, guitar, or voice
  • Create progressive lesson plans
  • Stay updated on music trends and games
  • Help plan and teach pieces for performances
  • Maintain open communication with supervisor, families, and participants
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor
  • 1-3 years of experience teaching children at beginning, intermediate, and advanced music level
  • Adequate knowledge of techniques, vocabulary, and music performance
  • Ability to create lesson plans and curriculum
  • Comfortable curating age-appropriate songs and lesson materials
  • Ability to motivate and energize students of all skill levels and ages
  • Background or degree in Music or Performing Arts highly encouraged, but not required

JOB STATUS Part time DEPARTMENT Recreation FSLA STATUS Non-Exempt

SALARY` $16.00-$18.00 per hour

HOURS 2-8 hours per week including evenings and weekends

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