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Music Directors and Composers Salary in California
Last updated: 2025 BLS data · Page refreshed:
How much do Music Directors and Composers make in California?
Last updated: 2025 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
$93,090
Median Annual Salary
▲
+24.5% vs 2024
$108,530
Mean Salary
$93,090
Median Salary
$44.75
Hourly Rate
2,510 people work as Music Directors and Composers in California
Music Directors and Composers salary by percentile in California
BLS-reported salary distribution — from entry-level (10th percentile) to top earners (90th percentile).
Music Directors and Composers in California earn a median salary of $93,090 per year ($7,757/month).
This is 33.1% above the national average of $69,923.
California ranks #2 out of 30 states for Music Directors and Composers pay.
Approximately 2,510 people work in this occupation across California.
Salaries increased by 24.5% compared to 2024.
About This Job: Music Directors and Composers
Conduct, direct, plan, and lead instrumental or vocal performances by musical artists or groups, such as orchestras, bands, choirs, and glee clubs; or create original works of music.
Top Skills
Active Listening
3.88
Speaking
3.62
Reading Comprehension
3.5
Critical Thinking
3.5
Judgment and Decision Making
3.5
Key Knowledge Areas
Fine Arts
4.72
English Language
3.79
Education and Training
3.49
Computers and Electronics
3.39
Customer and Personal Service
3.09
Typical Education: Master's Degree
(28.2% of workers)
Salary Range: Music Directors and Composers in California
Salaries for Music Directors and Composers in California range from $48,600 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $175,670 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $66,810 and $126,430.
How much do Music Directors and Composers make in California?
The median annual salary for Music Directors and Composers in California is $93,090 as of 2025. The average (mean) salary is $108,530.
What is the salary range for a Music Directors and Composers in California?
Salaries for Music Directors and Composers in California range from $48,600 at the 10th percentile to $175,670 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $66,810 and $126,430.
What is the starting salary for a Music Directors and Composers in California?
Entry-level Music Directors and Composers positions in California typically start around $48,600 (10th percentile). With some experience, salaries rise to $66,810 (25th percentile).
How many people work as Music Directors and Composers in California?
According to 2025 BLS data, approximately 2,510 people are employed as Music Directors and Composers in California.
What is the hourly rate for a Music Directors and Composers in California?
Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, the median hourly rate for a Music Directors and Composers in California is approximately $44.75 per hour.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2025 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
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