Music Instructor

Greater Somerset County Ymca • Basking Ridge, NJ

30d • Onsite

About The Position

An exciting opportunity to join the team of a progressive YMCA located in vibrant Somerset County, New Jersey. The YMCA is one of the nation’s leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. With a 150-year-old history, Greater Somerset County YMCA (GSCY) is a pillar of the community and has seven locations across three counties, which collectively serve upwards of 30,000 individuals. GSCY has 100 full-time and 950 part-time employees along with operating revenues of $22+ million. The Y empowers everyone—no matter who they are or where they are from. To fulfill our purpose of strengthening community for all, GSCY is committed to being an inclusive organization and leveraging our collective impact to address social inequities. The Somerset Hills YMCA is looking for passionate, creative, and enthusiastic Music Instructors to provide children and teens with quality music education in Piano, Guitar, and/or Percussion. Music Instructors should be confident in working with a variety of age groups and skill levels, helping participants develop their musical abilities, build confidence, and discover a lifelong appreciation for music. This opportunity is ideal for individuals who have a strong musical background, enjoy working with youth, and are passionate about sharing their knowledge through engaging, hands-on instruction. Instructors will have the opportunity to help develop and lead music programming through structured 8-week sessions spanning the school year and summer months, with class schedules built around instructor availability and community interest. This position is fully on-site at the Somerset Hills YMCA.

Requirements

• Must have experience playing, performing, or teaching Piano, Guitar, and/or Percussion.
• Must have experience working with children and be comfortable providing instruction to a variety of age groups, from younger children through teens.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must demonstrate proficiency in their respective instrument(s) and be comfortable explaining and demonstrating musical concepts to participants of varying skill levels.
• Should have a strong understanding of foundational music education, including proper technique, rhythm, basic music theory, and skill progression.
• Must be creative, patient, enthusiastic, and adaptable when working with participants of different ages, learning styles, and musical abilities.
• Must be able to develop and execute organized lesson plans that encourage learning, growth, and goal achievement throughout an 8-week program session.
• Must be attentive to participant safety and able to identify and address any safety concerns that may arise during instruction.
• Will need to be certified in CPR, First Aid, and AED prior to starting in this position.
• Must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with participants, parents, and YMCA staff.
• Must demonstrate reliability and consistency in attendance throughout each 8-week session to provide continuity and quality instruction for participants.
• Must be able to work independently while collaborating with YMCA leadership on program development, scheduling, and participant needs.

Nice To Haves

• A minimum of 3 years of experience with at least one of these instruments is preferred.
• Previous experience teaching music lessons, leading group instruction, or working in a music education setting is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and lead engaging music classes in Piano, Guitar, and/or Percussion based on the instructor's area of expertise.
• Create and execute structured lesson plans for each class within an 8-week session, ensuring participants have opportunities for continued skill development and progression.
• Provide instruction in foundational music concepts, including rhythm, technique, musical notation, coordination, and instrument-specific skills appropriate to participants' ages and abilities.
• Adapt teaching methods and lesson plans to accommodate a variety of learning styles, experience levels, and individual needs.
• Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and encouraging environment that promotes creativity, confidence, and enjoyment of music.
• Monitor participant progress throughout each session and provide constructive feedback to encourage continued learning and growth.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and respectful classroom environment, including the proper use and care of musical instruments and equipment.
• Communicate professionally with parents, guardians, and YMCA leadership regarding participant progress, class expectations, and program needs.
• Collaborate with YMCA leadership to develop new class offerings and expand music programming based on participant interest and community needs.

Benefits

• FREE Individual Membership Access to any YMCA in the Nation.
• 10% Discount on most programming at Greater Somerset County YMCA.
• Access to one of the leading retirement programs, "Y Retirement Fund," from the first day of employment.
• Opportunities for professional development, mentoring, growth, and promotion throughout the YMCA Movement.
• Supportive and inclusive community for people of all backgrounds and access to Employee Resource Networks.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed