Jabali Academy Legacy Notes R&B A Cappella Director (4th–6th Grade)
Strategenius ·www.strategenius.org
Apply directhttps://jabaliacademy.org/jobs/
Job Title: Legacy Notes R&B A Cappella Director (4th–6th Grade)
Reports To: Director of Arts & Culture / Head of School
Employment Type: Part-Time / Seasonal (Spring Semester) / Contract
Position Overview:
Jabali Academy seeks a dynamic and culturally responsive vocal music educator to lead Legacy Notes, an R&B a cappella ensemble for 4th–6th grade students. Legacy Notes develops students’ vocal technique and musicianship while teaching the power of collective music-making rooted in the rich tradition of R&B and African American vocal harmony. Meeting twice weekly during the spring semester, the ensemble emphasizes sight reading, vocal blending, harmonizing, and introductory vocal arranging within a supportive and collaborative environment.
The Director will prepare students for performances at the Empowering Minds Gala and other community events, cultivating confidence, discipline, and artistic excellence.
Primary Responsibilities
- Lead twice-weekly rehearsals for 4th–6th grade a cappella ensemble
- Teach foundational vocal techniques including breath support, tone production, diction, and healthy vocal habits
- Instruct students in sight reading, harmony building, vocal blending, and basic arranging
- Select and arrange age-appropriate R&B repertoire
- Foster a positive, affirming, and culturally grounded rehearsal space
- Prepare students for public performances, including the Empowering Minds Gala and other community showcases
- Integrate cultural context about the roots and evolution of R&B and vocal harmony traditions
- Track student growth and provide constructive feedback
- Communicate regularly with school leadership regarding program progress and needs
- Maintain a safe, organized, and engaging rehearsal environment
Qualifications
- Experience teaching vocal music to elementary or middle school students
- Strong knowledge of R&B vocal traditions, harmony, and ensemble singing
- Ability to teach beginner to intermediate sight reading and harmony skills
- Demonstrated skill in arranging or adapting music for youth vocal ensembles
- Commitment to culturally responsive teaching practices
- Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills
- Alignment with Jabali Academy’s mission and values
Preferred Qualifications
- Degree in Music, Vocal Performance, Music Education, or related field (or equivalent professional experience)
- Experience directing youth choirs or a cappella groups
- Background in African American musical traditions
- Performance experience in R&B, gospel, soul, or related genres
Core Competencies
- Ability to build student confidence and stage presence
- Collaborative leadership style
- Cultural awareness and historical grounding
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Passion for developing young voices in community