Job Description
Part-Time Instrumental Music Teacher and Assistant Chadwick School Palos Verdes Peninsula, California Chadwick School is an independent, K-12, coeducational day school dedicated to academic excellence, the development of exemplary character, and self-discovery through experience. A highly educated faculty and staff bring out the best in the talented student body through active learning, challenging academics, one-on-one mentoring, unparalleled global opportunities, nationally distinguished outdoor education and community service programs, outstanding athletic opportunities, and award-winning visual and performing arts. The core values of respect, responsibility, honesty, fairness, and compassion are widely shared and fostered daily in classrooms, during co-curricular activities, and through the camaraderie of this close-knit community. Located on a beautiful, 45-acre hilltop campus on the scenic Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles County, Chadwick enrolls over 800 students drawn from more than 45 Southern California communities. Founded in 1935 by visionary educator Margaret Lee Chadwick, Chadwick is one of two schools operated by the Roessler-Chadwick Foundation. In 2010, Chadwick International School was formed in Songdo, South Korea, which expanded opportunities for students around the globe to benefit from a world-class Chadwick education. Job Title: Instrumental Music Teacher and Assistant Division/Department: K-12 Reports To: Director of the Performing Arts Location: Palos Verdes, CA Level/Grade: K-12 Type of position/FLSA: Part-Time POSITION SUMMARY Chadwick School seeks a talented, enthusiastic, and nurturing instrumental music teacher to lead 4th and 5th grade instrumental music instruction and to serve as an assistant to the lead instrumental music teacher across the Middle and Upper School programs. In the Village, this teacher will introduce students to instrumental music through a select offering of instruments, building foundational skills, musical confidence, and a love of playing. Each class meets twice per week, and instruction should be engaging, developmentally appropriate, and designed to inspire young musicians at the start of their journey. In the Middle and Upper School, this teacher will assist the lead instrumental music teacher in rehearsals, sectional coaching, concert preparation, and efforts to grow student interest and participation in the instrumental music program. This is an ideal role for a skilled musician and educator who is eager to work across divisions, contribute to a thriving arts program, and gain broad experience within the life of an independent school. The ideal candidate is warm, patient, and energizing with elementary-aged students, brings strong musicianship and instructional skill, and is excited by the opportunity to grow professionally within a collaborative, mission-driven school community. ASSOCIATED RESPONSIBILITIES Teach 4th and 5th grade instrumental music classes, each meeting twice per week, with a select choice of instruments appropriate to the developmental level of the students. Plan and deliver engaging, sequential instruction that builds foundational musicianship, technique, and ensemble skills in young players. Create an inclusive, encouraging classroom environment where students feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and develop a genuine love of music. Assist the lead instrumental music teacher in sixth grade, Middle, and Upper School rehearsals, sectionals, and concert preparation. Support efforts to grow student interest and participation in instrumental music across the Middle and Upper School. Participate in school concerts, performances, and a limited number of evening rehearsals throughout the year. Collaborate with performing arts colleagues to contribute to a cohesive and vibrant music program across divisions. Maintain organized records of student progress, materials, and instrument inventory as needed. Communicate promptly and professionally with students, families, and colleagues. Attend relevant department and faculty meetings as relevant. Perform other duties as assigned. REQUIRED AND PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCES, AND SKILLS Strong musicianship and proficiency on one or more instruments is required. A bachelor's degree is required, preferably in music, music education, or a related field. Experience teaching or leading instrumental music instruction with elementary-aged children is required. A warm, patient, and engaging presence with young students is required. Strong written and oral communicatio