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The Chapin School, an independent K-12 day school for girls located in New York City, seeks a Lower School Music teacher for students in Classes Kindergarten through Class 3.

Candidates are encouraged to be familiar with Chapin's website.

Job Overview 

The Lower School Music Teacher  (K-3) will be a dynamic, innovative, and collaborative music teacher who will inspire in young students a love and appreciation of music, and instill musical literacy through a variety of experiences, including singing, moving, listening, performing, playing classroom instruments Reporting to the Head of Lower School and Head of Lower School Arts, this individual is committed to working collaboratively, flexibly, and closely with the Lower School Arts Team, grade teams, and co-curricular teachers to ensure student musical growth and success. This community member participates fully in the life of the Lower School and Chapin.

Chapin’s Lower School Music Teacher will be: 

A lead teacher who demonstrates a commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary curriculum development who

• Possesses a passion for music, the ability to differentiate instruction and develop  programs to excite and engage students

• Has an eagerness to collaborate with talented colleagues, flexibility, and a commitment to creative integration with other disciplines. 

• Has a degree in music education (Bachelor’s or Master’s)

• Training in Music Learning Theory and Orff with additional experience in Dalcroze and Kodaly. 

• Has strong choral and piano skills and experience as a music classroom teacher are preferred.

• Has experience teaching singing to Lower School-aged students and understands the development of young voices. 

A student-centered educator who values each student’s voice, experience, and history who

• Is committed to culturally responsive teaching that makes meaningful connections between students’ identities and life experiences.

• Incorporates music from different geographical regions, traditions, and systems into the curriculum. 

An educator who actively cultivates a classroom and community of belonging by

• Developing a joyful and productive learning environment, building relationships with students, recognizing the hands-on nature of childhood learning, and the importance of making learning visible. 

• Cultivating an inclusive classroom that celebrates each child’s musical identity and learning style. 

A partner to students, their parents, and colleagues in teaching and learning who

• Communicates and collaborates with departmental colleagues and homeroom teachers.

•  Is reflective about their practice and avails themselves of professional development opportunities.

• Is a lifelong learner open to constructive feedback and committed to their professional growth.

Salary for this position will be commensurate with experience, the range is $70,000-$130,000 annually.

How To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a résumé, cover letter, and a link (Google Drive or YouTube) with a 20 minute recording of a class that includes singing instruction or choral rehearsal. Applicants will be accepted through May 28, 2025, after which time the committee will begin their review. Candidates who apply after May 28 will be considered on a rolling basis.  

Qualifications 

Required

• Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education

• Previous music teaching experience with elementary-aged students

• Training in Music Learning Theory or Orff

• Understanding of vocal pedagogy for young voices

• Strong vocal and piano skills 

• Experience leading and conducting choral concerts

Preferred 

• Training in Kodaly and  Dalcroze 

• Experience coordinating and working with a creative team on performances: plays and musicals. 

• Strong written and oral communication skills

• Strong planning and organizational skills

• Bilingual English/Spanish speakers are of special interest as our students learn Spanish starting in Kindergarten