Orchestra Teacher (2027-2028)

Zeta Charter Schools•New York, NY
•$65,000 - $105,500•Onsite

About The Position

Zeta is hiring an Orchestra Teacher to deliver exceptional, engaging orchestral instruction at its middle school campuses in New York City. The teacher will develop students’ musicianship, collaboration, confidence, and lifelong love of music while building and leading in-school and after-school orchestra and ensemble programs. The role is fully on-site and is expected to start in July 2027 or sooner, depending on immediate hiring needs and candidate availability. The position reports to the Assistant Principal of Specialty. Hiring is conducted on a rolling basis as positions become available. The Orchestra Teacher will design rigorous, accessible instruction across string instruments; create an inclusive and joyful learning environment; and use data and student work to refine instruction and support student growth. The teacher will prepare students for performances, auditions, festivals, and competitions, maintain instruments and inventory, build relationships with students and families, collaborate with colleagues, participate in weekly professional development, and contribute to whole-school priorities. Zeta describes its educational mission as combining high academic achievement with social-emotional development. Its school network serves students across the Bronx, Upper Manhattan, and Queens and is growing from Pre-K through 12th grade. Candidates must have permanent authorization to work in the United States.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree; candidates with a degree in music, music education, orchestral performance, or a related field are preferred.
  • Experience working in orchestral music through teaching, private instruction, ensemble leadership, after-school or community programming, or professional performance.
  • Demonstrated experience building a student orchestra, including developing ensembles, selecting repertoire, and preparing students for high-quality performances.
  • Expertise in string instruments, orchestral pedagogy, music theory, and conducting, with the ability to provide rigorous, accessible, engaging instruction across string instruments.
  • Passion for developing students’ musicianship, discipline, collaboration, and confidence, with high expectations for every student’s growth.
  • Permanent authorization to work in the United States.

Nice To Haves

  • Full-time experience teaching orchestra in an elementary, middle, or high school setting, or formal training in orchestral performance at a music conservatory.

Responsibilities

  • Design and deliver musically rigorous instruction that develops students’ technique, musicality, ensemble skills, and confidence across string instruments.
  • Build a joyful, inclusive, and rigorous learning environment that encourages practice, perseverance, collaboration, and a love of orchestral music.
  • Maintain 100% enrollment across clubs and teams, complete required Specialty events, use data and student work to monitor progress and refine instruction, and ensure 80% or more of students pass unit assessments.
  • Lead in-school and after-school orchestra and ensemble programs and conduct performances showcasing student achievement.
  • Prepare students for auditions, festivals, competitions, and external performances in partnership with String Consultants.
  • Maintain instruments and inventory, perform basic repairs, and ensure equitable student access to quality equipment.
  • Build meaningful relationships with students and families to support student growth and success.
  • Collaborate with leaders and colleagues, participate in weekly professional development, and apply feedback to strengthen instruction.
  • Contribute to whole-school priorities and initiatives, providing instructional and community support as needed.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive and affordable medical, dental, and vision plans.
  • Flexible spending accounts for eligible medical purchases and commuter expenses.
  • 403(b) retirement plan with matching contributions.
  • Competitive compensation.
  • Relocation support for eligible candidates moving to New York City.
  • Monthly stipend for wellness and lifestyle expenses.
  • Four live therapy sessions per month through Talkspace and a free Headspace subscription.
  • MacBook Air and specified monthly reimbursement for mobile phone use.
  • Fully stocked team spaces with snacks and quality coffee.
  • Zeta swag, team outings, and treats.
  • Books and resources for professional development.
  • Clear pathways for professional growth.
  • Consistent feedback and support from managers and teammates.
  • Community Circle practice and interactive Mindfulness and DEIJ programming.
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service