Band & Ensemble Instructor

ROOTS Academy — OnStage Band Mentor

ROOTS Academy is seeking passionate, reliable, and inspiring musicians to join our OnStage team as Band Mentors. This role is ideal for musicians, performers, educators, or band leaders who love helping young musicians grow both musically and personally through the experience of playing in a band.

Our OnStage program places students into contemporary bands and ensembles where they rehearse weekly, develop performance skills, collaborate with peers, and perform live at professional showcases throughout the season. Mentors play a critical role in guiding students through rehearsals, helping bands grow musically, and creating an encouraging, engaging, and high-energy environment.

Interested in applying? Please complete our full OnStage Mentor Application using the link below. Applications submitted only here will not be considered complete.

• Lead and facilitate weekly band or ensemble rehearsals
• Help students learn and prepare songs for live performances
• Teach and reinforce musicianship, stage presence, rehearsal etiquette, and teamwork
• Foster a positive, encouraging, and inclusive rehearsal environment
• Assist students in developing confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills
• Help bands stay organized, focused, and progressing throughout the season
• Communicate professionally with ROOTS staff, students, and parents when needed
• Support showcases, performances, camps, and special events as assigned
• Encourage student ownership while providing leadership and structure

• Strong musical proficiency on at least one instrument or voice
• Experience performing in bands, ensembles, or live music settings
• Ability to lead rehearsals and work with groups of varying skill levels
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Passion for mentoring and investing in young musicians
• Reliable, organized, and professional
• Comfortable working collaboratively with staff and other mentors

• Previous teaching, coaching, or mentoring experience
• Experience directing bands or ensembles
• Multi-instrumental ability
• Experience working with students or youth programs
• Familiarity with a variety of musical genres and styles

The best OnStage Mentors are more than great musicians — they are positive leaders who know how to motivate students, build community, and make rehearsals both productive and fun. We’re looking for mentors who can challenge students to grow while helping them feel confident, supported, and excited to perform.

• Weekly 2-hour rehearsals (per group) during the season from August to May
• Rehearsals typically take place between 4:30pm and 8:30pm
• Participation in showcases, performances, and occasional special events
• Seasonal and summer opportunities available

Rehearsal Rate: $30-$35/hr based on experience and qualifications

ROOTS Academy exists to help students grow in confidence, creativity, leadership, and musicianship through high-quality music education and performance opportunities. Our OnStage program gives students real-world band experience in a supportive and inspiring environment where they can develop both as musicians and people.

If you are passionate about music, mentorship, and helping students thrive on and off the stage, we’d love to hear from you. Interested in applying? Please complete our full OnStage Mentor Application using the link below. Applications submitted only here will not be considered complete.  TO APPLY