Music Directors and Composers Salary Guide 2025: $73,710 Median, Slow Decline Ahead
The median Music Director or Composer earned $73,710 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That figure lands between the $39,880 paid to the bottom 10% and the $165,760 earned by the top 10%. The mean annual wage is $90,470, or roughly $35 per hour. But pay varies sharply by location and employer. Here's what you need to know about earnings, entry paths, and whether the field is growing.
How much Music Directors and Composers earn
The national median salary for this occupation is $73,710. The mean hourly wage is $43.50—slightly above the $35/hour figure if you compute $90,470 / 2,080 hours. Half of workers earn between the 25th percentile ($52,850) and 75th percentile ($106,390).
Industries also affect pay. Those working in performing arts companies tend to earn more, while educational services—where many school music directors work—usually pay less. The BLS counts 12,540 people in this occupation nationwide.
Pay by state
New Jersey tops the state rankings with an average annual wage of $122,750. California follows at $93,090, then Colorado ($88,460), the District of Columbia ($84,040), and New York ($82,930). On the low end, Montana averages $51,530, Illinois $49,270, and Alabama $42,250. Moving to a higher-paying state can boost earnings by $80,000 or more.
How to become a Music Director or Composer
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in music theory, composition, or conducting. Many music directors in schools need state teaching certification. Composers often build a portfolio through commissions, film scores, or self-published works.
Key steps include:
Earn a bachelor’s in music (or a related field). Gain experience through internships, accompanying, or assistant conducting. For school jobs, complete a teacher preparation program and pass state exams. Build a demo reel or score samples. Network with orchestras, churches, theaters, and studios.
Job outlook
The BLS projects a -0.3% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, meaning the number of Music Director and Composer jobs will shrink slightly. However, about 4,300 openings each year will come from workers retiring or leaving the field. Competition is strong in top orchestras and film scoring; opportunities are more available in religious organizations and education.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary range for Music Directors and Composers?
The 10th percentile earns $39,880; the 90th percentile earns $165,760. The median is $73,710.
Which state pays Music Directors and Composers the most?
New Jersey, with an average wage of $122,750, followed by California ($93,090) and Colorado ($88,460).
Is the job outlook positive for Music Directors and Composers?
No. The BLS forecasts a -0.3% decline from 2024 to 2034, meaning fewer jobs over time. About 4,300 annual openings still exist due to turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Music Directors and Composers data.