Interim Music Instructor - Klezmer Ensemble

Mount Holyoke College

20d • Onsite

About The Position

The Mount Holyoke College Department of Music seeks an interim Music Instructor to lead the Klezmer Ensemble during Spring 2027 as a one-semester sabbatical replacement. The ensemble is open to instrumentalists at all levels through a no-fear audition and specializes in Eastern European dance music, including its historical, ornamental, and improvisatory approaches. The ensemble particularly welcomes clarinets, flutes, strings, and brass, as well as one keyboardist and one percussionist.

The instructor must know klezmer scores and the instruments represented in the ensemble, and work with students on stylistic interpretation of suggested tunes using lead-sheet formats for Bb, C, Eb, and bass clef. Repertoire will be studied harmonically and presented with relevant historical or biographical information. Weekly rehearsals are regularly held Wednesdays from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. The Spring concert is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, April 28, 2027, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.

This is a non-benefited, part-time appointment paid hourly per rehearsal. The hourly rate is $73.54 for teaching/performance and $36.78 for administrative/rehearsal work.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Music, or a bachelor’s degree and equivalent professional experience.
• At least one year of prior experience leading a klezmer ensemble.
• Knowledge of klezmer scores and all instruments represented in the ensemble.
• Commitment to Mount Holyoke College’s climate of academic excellence and inclusive learning within its gender-diverse women’s liberal arts college environment.
• Application must include a cover letter summarizing interests and qualifications, a complete resume or curriculum vitae, and links to at least two videos recorded within the last five years: one leading a klezmer ensemble in performance and one performing on the applicant’s main instrument(s).

Responsibilities

• Lead 90-minute weekly rehearsals of the Klezmer Ensemble throughout the semester and direct the Spring concert.
• Assist students with auditions, placement, and enrollment.
• Prepare and distribute a syllabus.
• Assist students with mentorship and musical opportunities as appropriate.
• Submit grades.
• Work with students on stylistic interpretation of suggested tunes using lead-sheet formats for Bb, C, Eb, and bass clef.
• Work on selected repertoire harmonically and present each tune with relevant historical or biographical information.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level