Hire a Musician, Artist or Photographer

The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) provides a referral service for those seeking to hire our talented students. We can refer you to a student musician, artist or photographer. Our musicians and artists will add a special touch to your event. Our photographers can be hired for headshots, family portraits, product photography, special events and other projects.

Please note: This referral service is for paid events. If you're seeking a volunteer, email cvpa@niu.edu a flyer we can post.

Hiring Process

To hire a student musician, artist or photographer, follow these steps:

  1. Fill out the request form. We can't guarantee that a student will be available for your requested date and time.
  2. A student will contact you. The CVPA will no longer be involved at this point.
  3. Negotiate terms and conditions, as well as payment information, with the student.

Please note: NIU departments must contact HR Student Employment at 815-753-1394 to see if the student they want to hire is an NIU employee. If so, paperwork will be necessary to pay the student through NIU's payroll system.

Rates and Fees

Rates and fees are negotiable. They depend on factors such as the length of the event and the distance the student must travel. As a general guideline, you can expect to pay a musician or artist $75-100 per hour.

Students accept engagements as freelance artists, not as employees of NIU or clients. You must pay the student directly.

Request Form

Please provide information on your event or employment opportunity.

Contact Us

College of Visual and Performing Arts
Music Building
Northern Illinois University
DeKalb, IL 60115

cvpa@niu.edu