Guitar Teacher - HS, Part-time

Classification:
Exempt, Benefits-ineligible, Part-time (two periods a week (on two afternoons)

Supervisory responsibility:
None

Salary:
Salary offered depends on qualifications and years of teaching experience

About the Role

The Guitar Teacher (or “Teacher”) inspires students through music instruction and performance while supporting the educational philosophy of the Austin Waldorf School. The position cultivates students' musical abilities, artistic expression, listening skills, discipline, and appreciation for music through developmentally appropriate instruction. The Teacher contributes to the cultural life of the school by performing, accompanying, and participating in school festivals, assemblies, and community events.

With or without reasonable accommodation, the Teacher must meet the qualifications and requirements herein and be able to perform the Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Demonstrated proficiency as a guitarist.
• Experience teaching guitar to children or adolescents.
• Excellent musicianship and performance skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with faculty and families.
• Commitment to the mission of the school.
• Bachelor’s degree in a music-related subject, education, or in a related field.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Successfully complete pre-employment background checks.
• Incumbent must be authorized to work legally in the U.S., as AWS is unable to sponsor an applicant/employee.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Music, Music Education, Guitar Performance, or a related field.
• Experience in Waldorf education or a willingness to study Waldorf pedagogy.
• Experience accompanying vocal or instrumental ensembles.
• Ability to play multiple musical styles appropriate for educational settings.
• Familiarity with child development.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent guitar performance skills.
• Strong understanding of music theory.
• Ability to teach beginning through advanced students.
• Ability to inspire and teach students of varying ages and abilities.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Professional judgment and discretion.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a collaborative educational environment.

Essential Job Functions

Music Instruction

• Provide engaging guitar instruction to students in accordance with Waldorf educational principles.
• Teach students proper guitar technique, posture, rhythm, melody, harmony, and music reading as appropriate for their developmental stage.
• Differentiate instruction to meet the varying skill levels and abilities of students.
• Foster a love of music through encouraging, age-appropriate lessons.
• Develop lesson plans that integrate musical artistry with the broader Waldorf curriculum when appropriate.
• Encourage creativity, improvisation, and ensemble playing.

Performance and Accompaniment

• Accompany student singing, eurythmy, dramatic productions, assemblies, and school celebrations as requested.
• Perform at school concerts, festivals, and community events.
• Collaborate with faculty to support music for seasonal festivals and classroom activities.
• Assist in preparing students for musical performances and presentations.

Student Development

• Create a classroom environment that encourages respect, confidence, and artistic growth.
• Model professionalism, musicianship, and enthusiasm.
• Observe student progress and communicate appropriately with parents and faculty.
• Encourage consistent practice habits and musical responsibility.
• Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to integrate music into the curriculum.
• Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, and school events.
• Support the mission and philosophy of Waldorf education.
• Maintain positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain music instructional materials and instruments in good condition.
• Recommend music resources and equipment purchases.
• Maintain attendance and other records as required by school policy.
• Assist with planning concerts and music-related school events.

Other General Duties

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Professional judgment and…