Music Faculty

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.

• 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
• Respected performance credentials preferred (individual instruction areas)
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Additional pedagogical training/certifications a plus

• 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.
• 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.

Pay rates are determined based on experience and qualifications.

• 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
• Medical expense and dependent care reimbursement