Teaching Artist

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is seeking a Part-Time Contract Teaching Artist in our Kim Noltemy Young Musicians program, dedicated to transforming lives and communities through intensive orchestral music education. Designed to nurture and empower youth in Dallas, Young Musicians provides students in grades 1st-12th and their families with free music instruction, instruments, performance and mentorship opportunities. 

The Young Musicians program is inspired by El Sistema, Venezuela's model of music education, which provides intensive orchestral and group instruction focused on transforming children's lives and their communities through musical and social excellence.  Teaching Artists are expected to be prepared to lead full sectionals and, in an in-need-basis, full orchestra rehearsals in accordance with the Young Musicians/El Sistema educational philosophy. The Young Musicians program offers violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, French horn, trumpet, trombone, and percussion. 

This position is ideal for music education students seeking hands-on teaching experience, music educators looking for an after-school opportunity, and performers with a passion for teaching. 

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver engaging individual, sectional, and full ensemble instruction aligned with the Young Musicians/El Sistema educational philosophy. 
• Foster a positive, inclusive learning environment that promotes musical excellence, creativity, teamwork, and social-emotional growth while providing students with regular, constructive feedback. 
• Lead orchestra rehearsals, support instruction across instrument groups as needed, and maintain effective classroom management with high expectations for student success. 
• Collaborate effectively with Teaching Artists, program staff, school partners, students, and families while actively giving and receiving constructive feedback to strengthen instruction and student outcomes. 
• Demonstrate flexibility, creativity, and a commitment to continuous learning by embracing feedback, adapting to changing program needs, and contributing to a collaborative team environment. 
• Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to student development. 
• Support student performances, special events, and other program initiatives while maintaining effective communication with students, families, and Dallas Symphony Orchestra staff.

• Bachelor's degree in Music, Music Education, or a related field preferred. 
• Experience teaching beginner- to intermediate-level music students in classroom, ensemble, or community education settings. 
• Strong classroom management and student engagement skills. 
• Knowledge of beginning music pedagogy and age-appropriate repertoire. 
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills with the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, colleagues, and school partners. 
• Demonstrated flexibility, creativity, and strong problem-solving skills, with an openness to feedback and continuous learning. 
• Passion for working with youth and serving as a positive role model. 
• Professional, dependable, and able to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced educational environment. 
• Evening and weekend availability will be required for performances and events. 
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Preferences 

• Bilingual in Spanish
• Applicants are encouraged to include a written lesson plan for an instrumental beginner group class

Working Conditions

• This is a contract role with expectations of 8.5 hours per week
• Working Schedule: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 3:30pm- 6:00pm 

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra offers access to complimentary concert tickets when available.