Chicago Metamorphosis Orchestra Project

Position: String Orchestra Director

Title: String Orchestra Director

Location: Mary Lyon Elementary School (2941 N McVicker, Chicago IL)

Reports to: Program Manager

Hours: Monday- Friday, 3:30- 5:00 PM 

Compensation: $55 per hour

Start Date: September 2024 

Inquiry: Send your resume and a brief cover letter to kelsey@chimop.org

The Chicago Metamorphosis Orchestra Project (ChiMOP) is dedicated to effecting positive social change in young students with limited access to the arts by providing a safe and fun environment for them to make music in pursuit of artistic excellence together with peers and role models.


Position Summary:

The String Orchestra Director (OD) is responsible for conducting rehearsals to young beginner student musicians in the Lyon String Orchestra. The Orchestra Director will work with the ChiMOP Leadership Team to plan efficient lessons that include technique study, repertoire study, music theory, rehearsal and performance etiquette, and an element of play. The OD will be responsible for classroom management, including student behavior during lessons and passing periods. 

Expectations:

  • The OD will create clear lesson plans for each group lesson that can be articulated to the Leadership Team as necessary and will include technique studies that address relevant repertoire challenges, goals for technique and repertoire work, and games or contests to challenge and engage students.

  • The OD will make a concerted effort to be available for all lessons, rehearsals, and performances, and when not available will communicate unavailability in a timely manner to the Leadership Team.

  • The OD will perform all functions in the spirit of “Music for Social Change,” meaning that musical goals should not eclipse the broader goals of using music and the orchestra to instill general values and skills such as responsibility, strong work ethic, discipline, kindness, compassion, and teamwork. 

Qualifications: 

  • Demonstrated excellent musicianship and artistry as a teacher/performer 

  • Strong commitment to the El Sistema philosophy of social change through music and the mission of ChiMOP

  • Four-year undergraduate degree or equivalent experience required; post-graduate degree or equivalent experience a plus 

  • Strong knowledge of standard music pedagogy 

  • Experience teaching private lessons

  • Experience working with children from diverse ethnic and economic backgrounds; experience working in underserved communities 

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community 

  • Interest and ability to be a motivational mentor and role model for students, parents, and peers as an artist, teacher and citizen 

  • Ability to work under frequent observation 

  • Bilingual in English and Spanish a plus 

An Equal Opportunity Employer

It is the policy of the Chicago Metamorphosis Orchestra Project to provide all persons with equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, age or Veteran Status.