Jabali Academy Rising Rhythms Jazz Ensemble Instructor (Elementary/Middle)

https://jabaliacademy.org/jobs/

Job Title: Rising Rhythms Jazz Ensemble Instructor (Elementary/Middle School)

Reports To: Director of Arts & Culture / Head of School

Employment Type: Part-Time / Seasonal / Contract (as applicable)

Position Overview:

Jabali Academy seeks a passionate and culturally grounded music educator to serve as the Rising Rhythms Jazz Ensemble Instructor. Rising Rhythms introduces students to the fundamentals of making music together through the powerful tradition of jazz—an art form born from the creativity, resilience, and collective spirit of African American communities. The instructor will guide students with little or no prior jazz experience in developing essential musical skills while fostering an appreciation for jazz as both artistic expression and cultural storytelling. This role supports the Academy’s mission to cultivate confident, culturally rooted scholars through arts education grounded in heritage, identity, and community.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead weekly ensemble rehearsals for beginner-level jazz students in grades 4–6 (or as assigned).
• Teach foundational jazz concepts including rhythm, listening, call-and-response, improvisation, and ensemble coordination.
• Foster a positive, affirming, and culturally responsive learning environment that reflects the historical and cultural significance of jazz.
• Support students in developing musical confidence, discipline, and collaborative skills.
• Prepare students for school performances, showcases, and community events.
• Select and arrange age-appropriate and skill-appropriate repertoire.
• Integrate brief cultural and historical context into instruction to deepen students’ understanding of jazz’s roots and legacy.
• Communicate regularly with school leadership regarding student progress and program needs.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and respectful rehearsal environment.

Qualifications:

• Experience teaching instrumental music to elementary and/or middle school students, preferably in a group or ensemble setting.
• Strong knowledge of jazz fundamentals and ensemble performance.
• Ability to work effectively with beginner musicians.
• Demonstrated commitment to culturally responsive teaching and an appreciation for the African American musical tradition.
• Proficiency in one or more jazz instruments (piano, drums, brass, woodwinds, bass, etc.).
• Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills.
• Alignment with Jabali Academy’s mission and values.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Degree in Music, Music Education, Jazz Studies, or related field (or equivalent professional experience).
• Experience working in independent schools, community arts programs, or culturally grounded educational settings.
• Performance experience in jazz or related musical genres.

Core Competencies:

• Cultural competence and historical awareness
• Ability to inspire and motivate young learners
• Collaborative and community-centered approach
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Commitment to student growth and artistic excellence