Middle School Orchestra Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Salary:

Middle School Orchestra Teacher

Reports To: Principal

Location: Carden Conejo School, Thousand Oaks, California

About Carden Conejo School

Carden Conejo School is an independent, nonsectarian Preschool-Middle School school located in Thousand Oaks, California. For nearly 60 years, Carden has been known for its strong academic foundation, small class sizes, and commitment to developing the whole child. Rooted in the Carden Method, our program emphasizes clarity of thought, strong literacy and math skills, and a deep respect for character development. Students benefit from a rich, well-rounded curriculum that includes specialist instruction in subjects such as science, art, music, French, technology, and physical education. At Carden, we cultivate a joyful, nurturing environment where students are encouraged to think critically, grow in confidence, and develop a lifelong love of learning. Our dedicated faculty and engaged community work in close partnership to ensure each child is known, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Position Overview

Carden Conejo School is seeking a passionate, knowledgeable, and inspiring Middle School Orchestra Teacher to launch and grow our middle school strings program. This is a unique opportunity for an educator who is excited about building a program from the ground up and helping shape the future of a growing Preschool8th Grade school community.

The ideal candidate will bring both strong musicianship and a deep understanding of middle school students, creating a classroom environment that fosters discipline, creativity, confidence, collaboration, and a lifelong appreciation for music. This role will initially be part-time, with the opportunity to expand into a full-time position as our middle school program grows over the coming years.

The teacher should possess strong working knowledge across multiple string instruments, including violin, viola, cello, and bass, and be able to support students ranging from beginning musicians to more advanced performers.

Program Development & Instruction

• Build and lead the schools middle school orchestra and strings program from the ground up
• Develop a long-term vision and progression for the strings curriculum as the middle school expands year-by-year
• Teach beginning and intermediate string students in both small group and ensemble settings
• Provide instruction in violin, viola, cello, and bass techniques, including posture, tone production, intonation, rhythm, music literacy, and ensemble performance
• Foster a joyful, structured, and engaging learning environment that encourages musical growth and confidence
• Differentiate instruction to support a range of student skill levels and learning styles
• Select developmentally appropriate repertoire that challenges and inspires students
• Prepare students for performances, concerts, assemblies, and special events throughout the school year
• Incorporate music theory, ear training, sight reading, and ensemble skills into instruction
• Encourage proper instrument care and practice habits
  

Student Development

• Build positive, supportive relationships with students while maintaining clear expectations and classroom structure
• Help students develop perseverance, responsibility, collaboration, discipline, and confidence through music education
• Foster an appreciation for the arts and the role of music within a well-rounded education
• Support the emotional and social development of middle school students through collaborative ensemble experiences
  

Collaboration & Community

• Partner with school leadership to help shape the future direction of the middle school performing arts program
• Collaborate with faculty and administration on performances, school events, and interdisciplinary opportunities
• Communicate regularly and professionally with parents regarding student progress, performances, and program updates
• Participate in faculty meetings, school events, performances, and community-building activities as appropriate for a part-time faculty member

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or a related field preferred
• Experience teaching orchestra, strings, or instrumental music at the elementary or middle school level preferred
• Strong proficiency across multiple string instruments, including violin, viola, cello, and bass
• Experience conducting ensembles and preparing students for live performances
• Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills
• Passion for developing a program and helping grow a school community
• Excellent communication, organizational, and collaboration skills
• Enthusiasm for working in a growing, dynamic, and mission-driven school environment

Desired Characteristics

• Warm, engaging, and encouraging presence with students
• Entrepreneurial mindset and excitement about building something new
• Ability to inspire young musicians and cultivate a love of music
• Flexible, collaborative, and growth-oriented
• Passion for whole-child education and student character development

Schedule & Compensation

• Approximately 10-15 hours per week for the 2026-2027 school year
• Pay commensurate with experience
• School-year position running from August 24, 2026 through June 15, 2027