Music Teacher-Strings Specialist-K12

Job Description: Music Teacher – Strings Specialist (Whole School)

Position Title: Music Teacher – Strings Specialist
Division: Whole School (with a focus on Elementary/Primary School, and Middle School)
Supervisor: Division Principal / Head of Music
Job Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

We are seeking an inspiring and dedicated Music Teacher to lead our strings program across the whole school, with a primary focus on the Elementary/Primary years. The successful candidate will be passionate about nurturing a love for music and developing foundational instrumental skills in young learners. This role involves teaching classroom music and leading string ensembles, creating a vibrant musical culture from the earliest grades through to Middle School -1-8.

The teacher will foster creativity, collaboration, and excellence through engaging instruction, ensemble work, and performances. The ideal candidate will be adept at differentiating instruction to meet the diverse needs of students and will integrate inquiry, technology, and best teaching practices into their lessons -1-7.

Key Responsibilities

1. Teaching and Learning -10

Elementary/Primary Focus: Deliver developmentally appropriate music lessons for students in the Elementary/Primary years, introducing them to the fundamentals of string instruments (violin, viola, cello) and music theory.
Whole School Instruction: Extend the strings curriculum into Middle School, providing a seamless progression in instrumental skills and musical understanding -1.
Curriculum Development: Plan, prepare, and deliver an inquiry-based, engaging music curriculum that is aligned with the school’s philosophy (e.g., IB PYP, IPC, or other international curricula) -5-7.
Differentiation: Differentiate instruction to support all learners, including students with diverse learning needs and English Language Learners (ELL) -1-5.
Classroom Management: Establish a positive, inclusive, and structured learning environment that promotes student engagement and well-being -10.
2. Ensembles and Performances

Direct and Conduct: Prepare and direct three (3) or more curricular string ensembles, ranging from beginner to advanced levels, across the Elementary and Middle School divisions -1-8.
Concerts and Events: Prepare students for and coordinate at least three to four (3-4) concerts per year, as well as performances for assemblies, school events, and celebrations -8-10.
Co-Curricular Activities: Lead after-school string ensembles and foster additional extracurricular music opportunities for students -4-8.
Festivals: Prepare students for and travel with them to local and international music festivals (e.g., AMIS festivals, regional competitions) as required -4-8.
3. Collaboration and Professionalism

Team Collaboration: Collaborate with music colleagues, classroom teachers, and the fine arts department to plan curriculum, integrate music across subjects, and support the overall music program -1-8-10.
Parent Communication: Maintain clear and timely communication with parents regarding student progress, achievement, and performance opportunities -8.
Professional Development: Actively participate in professional development opportunities and contribute to the school’s professional learning community -10.
School Community: Contribute to the wider life of the school by participating in school events, parent-teacher conferences, and other community initiatives -1-10.
Requirements

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Music, Music Education, or a related field -1-10.
A recognized teaching qualification (e.g., B.Ed, PGCE, QTS, or state/provincial teaching certification) -1-10.
An advanced degree or specialized training in strings pedagogy is preferred -1-8.
Experience

Minimum of 2-3 years of successful teaching experience in a school setting, with a focus on string instruments -1-5.
Proven experience teaching music to Elementary/Primary-aged students -5-7.
Experience teaching in an international school setting is highly preferred -1-8.
Experience with inquiry-based curricula (e.g., IB PYP) is an advantage -5-7.
Skills and Personal Qualities

Instrumental Expertise: Proficiency in teaching violin and viola is essential; the ability to teach cello and double bass is also required -1-8.
Pedagogical Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge of developmental milestones for children and developmentally appropriate instructional practices -1-8.
Technology Integration: Highly skilled at using and integrating technology into the music classroom -1-10.
Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English -1-10.
Professionalism: Strong organizational skills, reliability, and a collaborative mindset -8-10.
Passion: A genuine passion for inspiring young musicians and a commitment to student growth and excellence -1-7.