Teaching Faculty

Walker West Music Academy is a vibrant music school for students of all ages, from 5‑year‑olds to adults. We offer affordable, accessible, high‑quality instruction in all genres of music with a special emphasis on jazz, gospel, and improvisational music. Founded by African American musicians, Walker West is believed to be the oldest community music school of its kind in the nation.

The high‑quality music education we provide is rooted in the African American cultural experience, creating a nurturing environment where students and educators form a genuine community of learning.

Walker West - Minnesota, 650 Marshall Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104, USA

Our faculty consists entirely of working musicians who bring real‑world experience into every lesson. At Walker West, we’re not just teaching music—we’re building connections, fostering creativity, and honoring the rich traditions that make music a powerful force for bringing people together.

$30.00 – $50.00 per hour, depending on qualifications;
Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) as legally required.

Because Walker West is a member of the Metropolitan Alliance of Connected Communities (MACC), who partners with St. Mary’s University, Walker West employees and their spouses are also eligible for the following benefits y’s University:

• Discounted tuition for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate programs
• Access to advancement (internships, job placement, field practice)

This is a regular, part‑time position that works 10 hours per week and is in‑person.

• Deliver high‑quality, engaging, and individualized music instruction in your area of expertise (e.g., piano, voice, strings, brass, woodwinds, drums, specific genres such as jazz, classical, gospel, etc.).
• Develop and implement lessons tailored to meet the diverse needs, skill levels, and musical goals of individual students and/or groups, from beginners to advanced learners, across various age ranges.
• Integrate music theory, history, technique, and appreciation into lessons.
• Stay current with pedagogical methods and musical trends.
• Assess student progress regularly and provide constructive, encouraging feedback.
• Inspire and motivate students to practice consistently and achieve their full musical potential.
• Prepare students for recitals, performances, and auditions as appropriate.
• Organize and direct student performances, recitals, and other performance opportunities within the Academy and the community.
• Collaborate with other faculty members and staff on interdisciplinary projects and academy‑wide events.
• Communicate effectively and regularly with students, parents/guardians, and Academy staff regarding student progress, concerns, and opportunities.

• Proficiency in your primary instrument(s) and deep knowledge of relevant music theory and history.
• Previous teaching experience, preferably in a music academy or similar educational setting.
• Ability to communicate effectively and build strong relationships with students of all ages and backgrounds.
• Patience, enthusiasm, and a passion for music education.

We value diversity and welcome applicants from underrepresented groups, including BIPOC, Indigenous, LGBTQI+, people with disabilities, veterans, and individuals of any age or family status.

Our organization has a partnership with the Metropolitan Alliance of Connected Communities (MACC) to provide administrative services, including management of the recruiting process. You may see references to MACC in some online materials.

Equal Opportunity

Employer:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, disability, marital status, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, familial status, genetic information, or protected veteran status.

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.