Music Instructor: Instrumental - GSCA

OVERVIEW

As the first visual and performing arts school along the Grand Strand, the Instrumental Music Instructor at GSCA will be responsible for the conception and development of the instrumental music discipline. The ideal candidate will inspire technical excellence, artistic expression, and a passion for performance in both solo and ensemble settings, fostering a rigorous pre-professional music program. This role will include teaching music practices and theory courses in alignment with the SC Career-Ready Standards and National Core Art standards in music. In addition, this role will advance knowledge through scholarly activities which include but are not limited to: active involvement in regional, state, national and international art sector and education committees, student mentorship, recruitment and retention initiatives, outreach activities, and partnership development along the Grand Strand. This role offers a unique opportunity to train aspiring performers for acceptance into prestigious programs and top-tier institutions. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  TEACHING AND CURRICULUM

• Teach daily courses (theory and practice) that demonstrate mastery of all state academic standards and competencies for musical theatre
• Develop and implement a rigorous music curriculum designed to prepare students for competitive collegiate programs and professional careers.  
• Provide individualized instrument training to develop students’ technical skills, artistry, and stage presence.  
• Direct and conduct orchestra, band, and/or symphony ensembles, preparing them for high-caliber performances and competitions.  
• Prepare and conduct solo and ensemble instruments with professional standards.  
• Provide instruction in music theory, ear training, and sightreading to support comprehensive music development.  
• Build partnerships with professional music organizations to provide masterclasses, workshops, and guest artist opportunities.  
• Foster a supportive environment for students’ artistic and personal growth while promoting discipline and collaboration. 
• Prepare students for participation in competitions, festivals, and national audition processes. 
• Evaluate student development individually using: diagnostic, formative, and summative assessments, creative rubrics, portfolios, and performance evaluations 
• Develop curriculum and lesson plans in alignment with state standards. 
• Collaborate with other departments, including other arts disciplines and core subjects to create arts-integrated curriculum and activities.
• Willingness to accommodate a variety of learning styles and strategies instructional delivery and learning activities, including online and blended learning, flexible teaching methods, and applied learning approaches.
• Maintain student portfolios, learning plans, and creative documentation. 
• Demonstrate consistent attendance and punctuality.
• Demonstrate efficiency and oral and written proficiency.
• Pursue further education and supplemental credentials
• Maintain and promote a safe learning environment.
• Continually assess students' development (academic, artist, and socio-emotional) through clearly defined rubrics.
• Promote critical thinking skills and character education.
• Promote and enforce Code of Conduct.
• Establish, maintain, assess, and (if needed) modify individual student progression plans.
• Identify those students who exhibit exceptional thinking styles and behaviors and implement and/or accommodate those exceptional needs.
• Attend and lead parent/teacher meetings and conferences.
• Initiate opportunities for professional development.
• Initiate and present innovative ideas for special projects, school functions, field trips, extracurricular activities, and clubs.
• Document parent phone calls, conversations, and conferences.
• Work as partners to create behavior modification plans.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Capable of lifting/carrying 20 lbs. and occasionally up to 50 lbs.; some physical activity required.
• Follows adopted policies and procedures in accordance with board priorities.
• Conducts him/herself in the best interest of students and the school, in accordance with the highest standards pursuant to the school’s mission and governing principles and in support of the GSCA’s Mission Statement

  PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH

• Fundraise annually or each semester for continued program growth and departmental needs 
• Foster organic relationships to recruit new students and to retain students.
• Research and write grants for assistance in program needs for GSCA, collaborations, and new opportunities for student's learning. 
• Prepare students for participation in local, regional, and national competitions and intensives. 
• Build partnerships with professional organizations to enhance student learning and opportunities.
• Understand the growth trends of Horry County and contribute programming and education where necessary for continued expansion of the arts sector along the Grand Strand. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Music Performance, Music Education, or a related field
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience as a performer, conductor, or teacher in nationally or internationally recognized institutions, ensembles, or productions.
• Minimum 3 years of teaching experience in a pre-professional or collegiate-level instrumental program. 
• Experience preparing students for competitive auditions, including resume development, prescreen videos, and personal statements.  
• Proven track record of coaching students who have been accepted into elite music programs and conservatories. 
• Advanced knowledge of instrumental pedagogy and safe performance techniques. 
• Proficiency in conducting and directing advanced level instrument ensembles.  
• Knowledge of repertoire across multiple genres, including classical, jazz, musical theatre, and contemporary styles.  
• Familiarity with music theory, ear training, and sightreading
• Strong connections to professional networks, instrumental guest artists, and higher education institutions. 
• Experience collaborating with other artistic disciplines, artists and faculty. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree in Music Performance, Music Education, or a related field
• South Carolina certification for grades 6-12.
• Leadership experience in arts programs, or in artistic entrepreneurship. 
• Evidence of a commitment to culturally relevant, diverse, and inclusive teaching practices.

REQUIRED APPLICANT MATERIALS

• Cover Letter addressing your relationship to the community and the arts sector, qualifications for this position, teaching philosophy including approaches to inclusive pedagogies in music, statement on Research/Creative Activity Interests on how you intend to build the instrumental music program, and relevant expertise.
• Curriculum Vitae
• A Digital Portfolio including: a demonstrated teaching reel (in any genre) and up to 3 varied examples of performances  
• Sample Syllabus and/or Lesson Plan

Grand Strand Charter Arts is the first performing and visual arts school in Horry County. Grades served will be 8-11 in Year 1, 8-12 in Year 2, and 7-12 in Year 3. 

www.grandstrandcharterarts.org