Jazz & Contemporary Piano Instructor

TITLE:

Contemporary Piano Instructor

REPORTS TO:

Director of Electronic Music & Recording Arts (EMRA) DEPARTMENT:
Electronic Music & Recording Arts (EMRA) STATUS:
Exempt, Part Time

LOCATION:

Minneapolis, On-Site COMPENSATION: $42.00 - $49.00 per hour BENEFITS: 403b, Flexible Spending Account - Transportation, Tuition Discounts, Professional Development, MN Safe & Sick Time JOB SUMMARY

The Contemporary Piano Instructor teaches individual lessons to students of all ages and skill levels, with a special focus on engaging beginners interested in exploring a range of musical styles, including jazz, pop, and rock. The Instructor will be responsible for maintaining high standards of teaching expertise while introducing foundational piano techniques and nurturing each student’s creativity and musical interests across diverse genres.

In addition to teaching, the Instructor will also participate in studio recitals and, if desired, may have opportunities to coach small ensembles or lead group classes.

• Provide high-quality, individualized piano instruction, including modeling effective techniques and musical interpretation through demonstration.
• Develop and lead lesson plans that foster growth and creative exploration.
• Maintain professional standards of teaching expertise, staying current with best practices in jazz, pop, and rock piano pedagogy.
• Establish a good rapport with students and families, encouraging open discussion.

• Manage Studio Logistics including lesson scheduling, registration, and regular communication with students and families.

• Ensure students are performance-ready and understand the process of translating rehearsal work into public presentation.

• Foster an inclusive, student-centered environment that supports risk-taking, mutual respect, and creative expression.
• Support outreach and communication efforts to help raise awareness, engage new participants, and connect the work of Mac Phail Center for Music to the broader community.
• Model curiosity, openness, and professionalism in all interactions with students, families, and colleagues.

• A degree or certification in music or music education, or the equivalent, preferred.

• Minimum of three years of studio teaching all ages and skill levels, of which a significant portion is with young students and beginners, required.
• Experience teaching small groups, preferred.
• Experience teaching diverse styles of music, preferred.

• High standards of pedagogical expertise.
• Ability to tailor instruction to individual goals.
• Commitment to inclusive, student-centered teaching.