Head of Instrumental Music

St Peter's School, Cambridge, New Zealand; Cambridge; On-site; NZD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent school in Cambridge, New Zealand, is looking for a Head of Instrumental Music. This role involves leading and developing a vibrant instrumental programme from beginner to advanced levels. Candidates should have at least a degree in Music or Music Education, strong teaching experience, and excellent leadership capabilities. The ideal candidate is passionate about music education and fostering young talent within a collaborative environment. Applications close on 12 December 2025.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Music or Music Education is essential.
• Proven success in teaching multiple instruments and developing young musicians.
• Strong organizational skills for managing complex timetables.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership of the instrumental music programme across all year levels.
• Lead, conduct, and develop school ensembles.
• Manage and mentor a team of specialist instrumental tutors.

Skills

Leadership in music education

Ensemble direction

Teaching multiple instruments

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Music or Music Education

Job description

Permanent/Full-time

St. Peter’s School, Cambridge is a leading Independent, co-educational Year 7–13 boarding and day school set in a beautiful rural campus. We are seeking an inspirational and highly skilled Head of Instrumental Music to lead our vibrant and growing instrumental programme across curricular and co-curricular settings.

About the Role

The Head of Instrumental Music oversees a comprehensive school-wide programme, nurturing students from beginner through to advanced levels. This position leads a team of instrumental tutors, conducts ensembles, supports curriculum delivery, and plays a key role in shaping performance opportunities, events, and the musical life of the school.

We are seeking a leader who is passionate about music education, thrives in a collaborative environment, and is committed to developing young musicians to their fullest potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership of the instrumental music programme across all year levels.
• Lead, conduct, and develop school ensembles
• Teach at orchestral or band instruments (e.g., strings, woodwind, brass, percussion) and offer one-on-one tuition as required.
• Manage and mentor a team of specialist instrumental tutors across classical, jazz, and contemporary fields.
• Oversee performance planning, concerts, competitions, and external events.
• Collaborate and implement on complimentary curriculum and co-curricular pathways that engage, challenge, and retain students.
• Manage instrument assets, and resource planning.
• Foster strong relationships with students, whānau, staff, and the wider community.
• Contribute actively to the Performing Arts Faculty and wider school life, including evening and weekend commitments.

Skills & Experience

We are looking for a candidate with:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Music or Music Education (essential).
• New Zealand teacher registration (preferred).
• Proven success teaching multiple instruments and developing young musicians.
• Demonstrated strength in ensemble direction and performance preparation.
• Experience designing instrumental programmes and leading music events.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage a complex timetable.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, student-centred mindset.
• Experience in independent or boarding schools (advantageous).
• A full NZ Driver’s Licence.

Our Ideal Candidate

You are an enthusiastic, creative, and visionary leader who can inspire a love of music across the school. You bring resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence in both performance and pedagogy. You value teamwork and thrive in a dynamic arts environment.

Applications close 9:00am, Friday 12 December 2025 and will be reviewed as they are received.