SY 26-27 Founding Lead Music Teacher / Program Lead

Manhattan Charter School•New York, NY

55d•$70,000 - $80,000•Onsite

About The Position

Manhattan Charter School is seeking a Founding Lead Music Teacher / Program Lead to launch and lead an El Sistema–inspired music program. This role involves teaching, program design, and leadership, aiming to build a joyful, rigorous, and inclusive culture of music-making. The ideal candidate is a passionate, trauma-informed music educator who believes in music as a vehicle for equity and social change and thrives in start-up environments. The program will focus on ensemble work, discipline, and creativity as integral parts of daily learning for students.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, Performance, or related field (Master’s preferred).
Experiences in restorative practices and de-escalation techniques
Demonstrated success teaching music in an ensemble setting (K–8 preferred).
Commitment to social equity and belief in the transformative power of music.
Strong organizational and leadership skills; comfort with start-up environments.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Music Education, Performance, or related field.
Fluency in Spanish or another community language.

Responsibilities

Teach group instrumental classes (string, wind, percussion, or other core focus) and direct ensembles.
Use trauma-informed practices to create a safe, supportive, and responsive learning environment.
Develop students’ technical, musical, and social-emotional skills through daily practice and performance.
Establish clear systems, routines, and expectations to maintain strong classroom management.
Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of beginners through advanced students.
Design the founding program structure (class structures, ensemble groupings, repertoire selection, performance calendar).
Establish systems and routines for rehearsal, practice, and performance aligned to El Sistema principles.
Lead recruitment of students and families into the program, cultivating a strong community culture.
Mentor and support program support staff/teaching assistants.
Collaborate with school leadership and other educators to align music programming with the broader school mission.
Coordinate with families, community partners, and artists to enrich student experiences.
Support grant writing, fundraising, and community partnerships to sustain the program.
Monitor and track student progress, attendance, and engagement.
Serve as the public face of the program, representing its mission to stakeholders.