WMS’s Tune Up after-school string program fills a gap in the local education system. Tune Up is based on El Sistema, a visionary global orchestra movement that provides instrumental music education to underserved youth, developing the life skills and habits that lead to successful lives. Like other programs based on this model, Tune Up will offer four or more hours of instruction per week. Students will receive free use of a musical instrument, learn to play that instrument, participate in ensemble and sectional lessons, build friendships, and receive music and academic support from teaching artists and qualified staff.

The program will take place in partnership with Muskegon Public Schools as part of the 21St CCLC IMPACT program, which provides after-school academic support and enrichment opportunities. Tune Up will leverage Impact’s already established safe, supportive environment—including tutoring, snacks and fellowship—while adding a needed musical element.

WMS Tune Up program is a formal partnership between the WMS and Muskegon Public School Districts 21St CCLC after-school IMPACT program, which provides after-school academic support and enrichment opportunities. Student instruction will be held after the school day and during the Impact program hours in the elementary school. Tune Up will leverage Impact’s already established safe, supportive environment—including tutoring, snacks and fellowship—while adding a needed musical element.

The String Teaching Artist provides violin, viola, and cello instruction for beginning students in elementary grades 3, 4, (year one). Subsequent years will add grade 5 (returning students) and continue to add new participants in grades 3 & 4. Each student receives a WMS Tune Up string instrument to use while in the program.  Additional hours will be added to the position or additional staff will be hired to sufficiently teach Tune Up students.

Pay range is  $20-$30K, depending on experience. The position is approximately 10-12 hours per week, Monday -Thursday, and runs September through June. (Possible Summer Session hours for 6 weeks July and August.)   Concerts, meetings, preparation time and other Tune Up related work is included in the salary.

Schedule:

Two days per week at: Bunker Elementary 4:00-6:00pm, (instructional time 4:30-5:30pm)

Two days per week at: Oakview Elementary 4:00-6:00pm (instructional time 4:30-5:30pm)

Tune Up String Instructor Responsibilities:

As a Teaching Artist, the candidate must be able to demonstrate proficient performance techniques, as well as communication skills. Knowledge of orchestral instrumental performance and pedagogical practices and their implementation are a must. The primary responsibility of the instructor is to teach group lessons and oversee all rehearsals. Collaborating with Tune Up Program Manager, the Teaching Artist will be directly involved in developing, implementing, and carrying out the curriculum and defined teaching objectives.

• Teach mixed group lessons for violin, viola, and cello at beginning levels
• Deliver high-quality instruction and basic musicianship
• Develop effective classroom management and lesson plans
• Assist with recruitment, registrations, and sign-ups
• Work with WMS Tune Up Program Manager to manage instrument distribution and retrieval according to set procedures; provide simple repairs to Tune Up instruments, or return damaged instruments to office for repairs.
• Maintain current attendance lists, and provide weekly updates to Program Manager.
• Work collaboratively with other instructors and Impact staff to facilitate opportunities for combined events (outreach concerts, season finale concert)
• Work cooperatively with school site staff to develop positive relationships
• Prepare students to perform in at least 2 concerts each program year. (inaugural year - one concert)
• Communicate any changes in schedule to the WMS Program Manager immediately.
• Meet with Program Manager bi-weekly.

With long term goals of expanding the program, this position has the potential for an increase in hours and responsibilities. Opportunities for professional development through El Sistema USA and other local and national music education organizations are offered and encouraged.

Position Qualifications/Requirements:

 Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in music (orchestral strings), music education, or related field.

• Passion for impacting students’ lives through music, especially underserved or at-risk youth.
• Prior experience teaching school age children.
• Mastery of your primary instrument (violin, viola, cello).
• Ability to work well on a team.
• Effective and equity-driven classroom management techniques.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work well in a racially and culturally diverse community.

Preferred

•  Ability to speak and write fluently in Spanish. (not required)
• Familiarity with the Suzuki method and/or another style of early strings pedagogy.