Artist Teacher - Instrumental Music (Jazz)

JOB SUMMARY

Join the dynamic and culturally rich community at Oakland School for the Arts (OSA), a distinguished charter school nestled in the heart of an urban environment, renowned for its innovative approach in merging the arts with a rigorous academic framework. Serving approximately 800 students from grades 6-12, OSA is dedicated to fostering both artistic expression and academic excellence.

We are currently seeking an Artist Teacher - Instrumental Music (Jazz) to lead the middle school jazz ensemble. This position involves selecting repertoire for a big band, conducting rehearsals weekly, and preparing students for concerts throughout the school year. This high-level, audition-required ensemble is designed for instrumentalists with exceptional proficiency, sight-reading ability, and improvisational skill. The ideal candidate will inspire students through an engaging curriculum that explores the jazz canon and its cultural impact, promoting creativity and student compositions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan and deliver jazz ensemble rehearsals weekly, focusing on advanced jazz literature and improvisational skills.
• Select repertoire suitable for a big band, ensuring a challenging and inspiring musical experience.
• Prepare students for concerts throughout the school year, as well as competitions and extracurricular events.
• Evaluate student performance through weekly grades and maintain accurate daily attendance records.
• Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment, encouraging creativity and student compositions.
• Provide advanced instruction in jazz practices, techniques, and improvisation, ensuring students gain a comprehensive understanding of the jazz canon and its cultural significance.
• Organize and supervise performances at school concerts, competitions, and other events.
• Collaborate with the Music Department Chair and other faculty to enhance the music curriculum and support student growth.
• Communicate regularly with students, parents, and school administrators regarding student progress and program goals.

EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE, AND REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university.
• Valid California Career Technical Education credential required.
• Prior proven music teaching experience, including leading group courses and experience with big band ensembles.
• Advanced understanding of jazz practices, repertoire, and technique on a primary instrument, with strong knowledge of other instruments.
• Proven success in working with middle school and/or high school students in an educational setting.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage weekly grades and maintain classroom accountability.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The annual 1.00 FTE salary for this role will be $65,607.22 - $81,549.04. Salary will be based on the OSA certificated salary scale, class schedule, and is commensurate with experience and credentials. OSA offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, commuter benefits, employee assistance program, and retirement plans. This is a 186-day position aligned with the school year calendar.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

Oakland School for the Arts (OSA) does not discriminate in any program, activity, or employment decision on the basis of actual or perceived age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status, physical or mental disability, medical information, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law