Drumline (Part Time, After School, In-Person)

Concorde Education • Palo Alto, CA

19h • $50 - $100 • Onsite

About The Position

Concorde Education is seeking an engaging, student-centered Drumline Instructor to facilitate a short-format after-school enrichment course for students (grade band varies by assignment). This course builds foundational marching percussion skills through structured rehearsal routines, rhythm development, ensemble listening, and performance preparation. Students learn how drumline functions within a marching ensemble—supporting tempo, clarity, and energy—while developing musicianship, discipline, and teamwork.
Instruction should be inclusive and appropriately scaffolded for beginner to intermediate players (as assigned). The instructor will establish clear routines for instrument handling, rehearsal expectations, and collaboration. The instructor will deliver instruction across a typical 10-week cycle, with pacing adapted to student readiness and site logistics. (In marching band contexts, “drumline” commonly refers to the marching percussion section, often including battery and sometimes front ensemble depending on site definitions.)
What You Will Teach
Students will learn drumline fundamentals including posture and playing technique, rhythmic accuracy, timing, ensemble awareness, and basic performance skills. Depending on instrumentation available at the site, instruction may include snare, tenor/quads, bass drums, and cymbals, with beginner-appropriate parts and rehearsal strategies that build consistency and confidence.
Major Topics Can Include
Rehearsal norms and ensemble expectations (focus, respect, teamwork)
Instrument setup, care, and safe handling routines
Technique fundamentals (grip, stroke types, rebound control, posture)
Timing and pulse (internal subdivision, metronome training, listening across the line)
Counting systems and rhythm literacy (note values, rests, subdivisions)
Rudiments (age/level appropriate; emphasis on clarity and control)
Ensemble listening skills (unison accuracy, alignment, dynamics, balance)
Drumline vocabulary and roles within a marching ensemble (battery concepts)
Basic “chunking” rehearsal strategies (slow reps, reps-to-tempo, loop practice)
Introductory cadence/performance material (level-appropriate)
Performance readiness (visual focus, starts/stops, etiquette, reflection)

Requirements

• Minimum of 60 college credits (or Associate degree in progress/completed)
• Demonstrated experience in marching percussion/drumline performance and/or instruction
• Proficiency with rhythm pedagogy, rudiments, and ensemble rehearsal techniques
• Experience working with school-age students in structured settings (school, after-school, camps, youth ensembles)
• Strong facilitation skills, clear communication, and confident classroom presence
• Reliable, punctual, and professional; able to follow school policies and program boundaries
• Comfort teaching in a time-limited after-school setting with varied instrumentation

Responsibilities

• Deliver a 10-session drumline course with clear objectives and structured rehearsal plans
• Differentiate instruction for varied experience levels and provide targeted feedback by section/instrument
• Maintain safe routines for instrument handling, storage, and classroom management
• Use effective rehearsal strategies to build rhythm accuracy, tempo stability, and ensemble cohesion
• Create an inclusive, supportive environment that encourages persistence and positive participation
• Communicate professionally with site staff and Concorde program contacts regarding attendance and session completion tracking
• Adapt pacing and repertoire to student readiness, time constraints, and available instruments while maintaining intended outcomes
• Support students in preparing for a culminating performance or demonstration (as applicable)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: Associate degree