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Job Description/Overview: 
The Music Institute of Chicago seeks enthusiastic, dedicated, and highly qualified music instructors to join our exceptional faculty of 130+ professionals for both individual and classroom instruction in support of its mission. Instructors with experience teaching orchestral instruments, voice, guitar, piano, ensembles/chamber music, early childhood music programs, jazz, and/or music theory are encouraged to apply.

Join us in nurturing the next generation of musicians! 

 
Depending on candidates’ availability and demand by department, positions range from teaching a few hours per week to more than 20 hours per week, with preference given to those who are willing to teach on multiple days and/or at multiple MIC locations. Successful candidates will have a genuine love of teaching students of all ages and levels — be skilled at fostering a positive learning environment and helping them reach their goals through inspirational teaching. 

MIC provides multiple professional development and performance opportunities for its faculty throughout the year, including on-site training/certifications. Students of MIC faculty benefit from comprehensive programs — including Smart Start early childhood, music theory, ensembles, Suzuki programs, the RCM certificate program, and the prestigious Academy program — as well as performance opportunities at MIC locations, including Nichols Concert Hall. 

Requirements  

  • Bachelor’s degree in music performance or music education/ pedagogy. Master’s degree in music performance or music education/pedagogy preferred 
  • 3+ years of studio teaching (instrumental instruction) or classroom instruction (music theory and early childhood) per applied area 
  • Strong knowledge of area-specific technique and pedagogy 
  • Experience educating diverse student groups (young children, teens, adults) and levels (beginning, intermediate, advanced) 
  • Proven ability to successfully develop a studio of students from beginning through intermediate/advanced levels and foster a positive learning environment 
  • Suzuki certification (violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, harp, flute, piano) preferred 
  • Respected performance credentials preferred (individual instruction areas) 
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills 
  • Additional pedagogical training/certifications a plus 

Responsibilities 

  • Teach weekly lessons/classes as required, including instrumental/vocal technique/repertoire and/or area-specific subjects (early childhood, music theory, etc.). MIC includes two 17-week semesters and one 6-7 week summer session each year. 
  • Develop a thriving studio at MIC by using effective pedagogical methods and creating a supportive, encouraging atmosphere that engages students and their families. 
  • Participate in department meetings and staff meetings as needed/required. 
  • Maintain accurate attendance records for lessons/classes. 
  • Assess student progress and provide constructive feedback to students and their families at weekly lessons/classes and as required through regular progress reports. 
  • Showcase student progress on recitals and other performance opportunities at MIC. 
  • Handle basic administrative communications with students, their families, and MIC staff promptly and effectively. 
  • Coordinate scheduling of lessons, student performance opportunities, and meetings.  
  • Stay up-to-date with the latest teaching methods and trends in music education. 
  • Encourage student involvement in comprehensive programs at MIC (early childhood, music theory, ensembles, Suzuki program, performances, etc.). 
  • Encourage new students to study at MIC. 

Additional responsibilities as required 
 

Hourly Rate:  

Pay rates are determined based on experience and qualifications. 

 

Comprehensive benefits (full-time positions only):  

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits 
  • Employee discount for lessons/classes at the Music Institute of Chicago 
  • 403b retirement contribution 
  • Life insurance and long-term disability insurance 
  • Paid sick days 
  • Medical expense and dependent care reimbursement 
  • Professional development opportunities 

How to Apply:

Applicants for this position should submit a cover letter and resume to HR@musicinst.org. Please include the position title in the subject line of your email.