Teaching Assistant - Beginner String Ensemble

The People’s Music School•Chicago, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The People's Music School is seeking a Teaching Assistant for its Beginner String Ensemble program. This role is ideal for individuals interested in developing their skills in K-12 music education and ensemble instruction. The People's Music School is Chicago's oldest and largest completely free nonprofit music school, dedicated to providing transformational music instruction to underserved youth. Students receive an average of four hours of instruction per week at no cost, delivered by world-class teaching artists in communities like Uptown, Albany Park, Back of the Yards, and the Greater South Side. Through intensive instruction and performance, students develop musically, socially, emotionally, and academically.

Requirements

Earned or in-progress undergraduate or graduate degree in music, music education, other degrees that present relevant expertise or equivalent experience/training
A high level of personal musicianship which includes knowledge of music theory in addition to performing ability
Experience creating a positive learning environment for all students
Self-motivated and unflappable; ability to work effectively in a busy school environment
Knowledge of a diversity of repertoire appropriate for the age level and ability level of the students taught
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Proven experience collaborating and working with people from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds
Personal commitment to the mission and values of The People’s Music School

Nice To Haves

Prior experience teaching specified instrument to children of different ages and ability levels
Prior experience working with children from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds
Willingness to continuously learn and evolve teaching practices to meet the needs of TPMS students; flexible and adaptable

Responsibilities

Assist in supporting high-quality instruction to students in Grades 1st-12th (including theory and composition)
Support Ensemble Conductor in executing lesson plans
Provide individual and small group coaching to students including instrumental/vocal, music theory, and composition instruction
Support Ensemble Conductor with classroom management
Assist with tuning instruments and small instrument repairs (e.g. changing strings, adjusting bridges, etc.)
Act as a consistent and compassionate mentor to each student
Provide high-quality instructional support which leads to excellence in student performance
Assist with set-up and cleanup of spaces used for ensemble rehearsals
Collaborate with Ensemble Conductor and Program Manager
Timely correspondence with Program Manager, Ensemble Conductor, and school staff
Supervise students during transitions and breaktime
Prompt, responsive and professional team member
Assist with other projects as assigned
Other duties may be assigned from time to time