Early Childhood Teaching Artist

Position Overview

The Early Childhood Music Teaching Artist at NEC Prep is a passionate and experienced educator responsible for delivering a high-quality musical curriculum to children from three months old to pre‑K (ages 0‑5). This position plays a crucial role in fostering a love for music, developing foundational musical skills, and creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment for young learners and their families.

The Early Childhood Music Teaching Artist will be supervised by the Director of Early Childhood Education and work collaboratively with other faculty members to deliver exceptional music education experiences within the program. Teaching for NEC’s Early Childhood Pilot Program takes place in community‑based early learning centers in Dorchester, Mattapan, Jamaica Plain and the South End, in classroom settings.

• Develop and deliver age‑appropriate music lessons and activities that align with the program’s curriculum goals and objectives.
• Create engaging lesson plans that incorporate a variety of musical elements, such as singing, movement, rhythm, and instrumental exploration.
• Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment that encourages active participation and supports each child’s individual learning needs.
• Integrate diverse musical styles and cultures to promote cultural appreciation and global awareness among young learners.

• Employ effective teaching strategies and pedagogical techniques to engage children in active music‑making and creative expression.
• Facilitate group activities and individualized instruction, providing guidance and feedback to support children’s musical growth.
• Use developmentally appropriate methods to introduce fundamental musical concepts, such as pitch, tempo, dynamics, steady beat and rhythm patterns.
• Encourage collaborative learning, peer interaction, and the development of social and emotional skills through music activities.

• Establish and maintain a safe, structured, and supportive classroom environment that promotes positive behavior and respectful interactions.
• Manage classroom materials and resources, ensuring they are organized and accessible for instructional purposes.
• Implement effective strategies to manage transitions, routines, and group dynamics, maintaining an engaging and focused learning atmosphere.

• Collaborate with the Director of Early Childhood Education to support and extend music learning at home for families, providing resources and suggestions for musical experiences beyond the classroom.
• Participate in occasional open houses and community events to foster positive relationships and promote the program’s mission and impact.

• Stay updated on current research, trends, and best practices in early childhood music education.
• Seek opportunities for professional growth, such as attending workshops, conferences, or pursuing advanced certifications in music education.
• Collaborate with fellow faculty members and the Early Childhood Education Director, sharing knowledge, experiences, and innovative teaching approaches.

• Bachelor’s degree in music education, music performance, or a related field (or equivalent experience). Master’s degree preferred.
• Proven experience teaching music to young children in an early childhood or elementary school setting.
• Experience and training with applied music methodologies for young children preferred: “Music Learning Theory” by
  
  E. Gordon, Dalcroze, Kodaly, Orff, Suzuki, etc.
• Strong musical proficiency and knowledge in areas such as singing, movement, rhythm, and basic music theory.
• Playing an instrument or willingness to learn an accompaniment instrument is preferred.
• Ability to create engaging and developmentally appropriate lesson plans and activities for young learners.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with children, classroom teachers, site administrators, parents, and colleagues effectively.
• Patience, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for working with young children and…