Assistant Band Director

Location: Skiatook

Skiatook Public Schools is currently seeking applicants for the position of Assistant Band Director for the  school year.

ASSISTANT BAND DIRECTOR

The band director is responsible for leading and teaching instrumental music to students in a middle school and high school setting, overseeing aspects of the band program including rehearsals, performances, competitions, marching band, and student development, while ensuring students meet academic requirements and fostering a positive musical environment; duties include assisting in selecting music, conducting rehearsals, managing student behavior, coordinating with the school administration, and promoting the band program to the community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Instructional Leadership:

• Assist with the development and implementation of a comprehensive band curriculum aligned with state standards, including concert band and marching band.
• Teach instrumental techniques, music theory, sight-reading, and ensemble playing skills to students of varying abilities.
• Conduct rehearsals, provide individual feedback, and assess student progress.
• Select appropriate repertoire for performances and competitions.

• Performance Management:
• Assist with the band in concerts, parades, pep rallies, football games, and other school events.
• Prepare students for music competitions and festivals.
• Assist with the design and execution of marching band shows.
• Manage stage presence, visual elements, and overall performance quality.

• Student Development:
• Foster a positive and inclusive band culture that encourages student leadership and collaboration.
• Provide opportunities for student growth through sectionals, solo performances, and leadership roles.
• Promote music literacy and appreciation among students.
• Monitor student attendance, behavior, and academic performance.

Administrative Duties:

• Recruit new band members and maintain student enrollment.
• Communicate effectively with students, parents, and school staff regarding band activities and expectations.

Required Skills and Qualifications:
1. Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Music Education, Percussion Performance, or a related field.
• Master's degree (optional, but often preferred) in Music Education, Performance, or a specialized field of music.

2. Teaching Certification:

• State Teaching Certification in Music Education or secondary education (depending on the region).
• Endorsement in Music or a specific endorsement for instrumental music may be required.

3. Experience:

• Proven experience as a percussionist and music teacher.
• Experience teaching at the high school level or with young musicians is highly preferred.
• Experience in directing a high school band or percussion ensemble.
• Conducting and teaching marching band or drumline is a plus.

4. Musical Skills:

• High proficiency in playing various percussion instruments, such as snare drum, timpani, marimba, vibraphone, drum set, etc.
• Knowledge of both classical and contemporary percussion styles.
• Ability to arrange and compose music for percussion ensemble or band is beneficial.

5. Instructional Skills:

• Ability to develop and deliver lesson plans tailored to different skill levels.
• Strong skills in classroom management.
• Ability to work with students to develop musical techniques, performance skills, and musical literacy.
• Ability to teach music theory and its application to percussion.

6. Communication Skills:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills for working with students, parents, and school staff.
• Ability to provide constructive feedback to students.
• Strong collaboration skills for working with other music teachers and staff.

7. Performance and Ensemble Direction:

• Experience conducting and teaching percussion ensembles or school bands.
• Ability to prepare students for performances and competitions.
• Ability to work with marching band or concert band directors to coordinate performances and rehearsals.

8. Technology Skills:

• Familiarity with music technology, including software for music notation (e.g., Finale, Sibelius) or other tools for teaching.
• Basic knowledge of audio equipment for recording or amplifying performances.

9. Physical Requirements:

• Ability to move and handle percussion instruments, including heavy equipment (e.g., timpani, large drums).
• Ability to lead outdoor marching band rehearsals, which may require physical activity and endurance.

10. Personal Attributes:

• Passion for teaching and working with young musicians.
• Patience, creativity, and adaptability in working with students.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills to handle rehearsals, lessons, and administrative tasks.

11. Professional Development:

• A commitment to continuing education in music and teaching methods.
• Participation in professional music teacher organizations and attending workshops or conferences to stay up-to-date with best practices in music education

Skiatook Public Schools offers competitive pay and benefits including paid holidays and health benefits. Starting salary will be based on applicant qualifications and/or work history. The…