Activity Instructor-Music (Instrumental)

Good Shepherd Services; New York (NY); On-site; USD 15,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Good Shepherd Services seeks an Activity Instructor-Music (Instrumental) to teach fundamentals of instrument playing to youth through structured, engaging lessons. The role includes following a sequenced curriculum, planning lessons in advance, and coordinating with the Program Director to meet program goals.

Responsibilities include planning culminating performances, maintaining instrument care, and collaborating with staff to support student growth.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Experience and/or training relevant to the position.
• Candidates with some college and youth teaching are encouraged to apply.
• Flexibility, creativity, and enthusiasm for young people.
• Excellent planning, organization and time management skills.
• Ability to engage youth, while setting structure and limits in a group setting.
• Energetic, motivated self-starter and a team player.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Commitment to strength-based, youth/family development and trauma-informed perspective.

Responsibilities

• Teach age-appropriate instrumental music lessons focusing on technique, rhythm, posture, and musical expression.
• Follow and adapt a sequenced music curriculum to student levels and learning styles.
• Submit lesson and unit plans in advance for review.
• Introduce basic music theory, sight reading, and listening skills as part of instruction.
• Plan and lead a culminating performance, recital, or recording project at the end of each cycle.
• Collaborate with program staff to align instruction with program goals and expectations.
• Provide guidance on how support staff can assist with practice between sessions.
• Ensure proper setup, tuning, storage and care of all instruments and materials.
• Attend staff meetings and required trainings.
• Create a respectful, supportive environment where students are motivated to learn and perform.
• Bring patience, musical passion, and creativity to every class.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Youth engagement

Classroom management

Music education

Verbal communication

Patience

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Some college coursework

Job description

Activity Instructor-Music (Instrumental)

The Music Instructor is responsible for teaching students the fundamentals of playing their instrument through engaging and structured lessons. The instructor should have a strong foundation in music education, performance, and experience working with children. This role supports musical growth, discipline, and creative expression in a fun and encouraging environment. Candidates with the following expertise are encouraged to apply.

Reports To: Program Director, LEAPS Programs

Locations: Creston Campus – 125 E 181 st Street, Bronx NY 10453

Locations: MS 363 – 120 E 184 th Street, Bronx NY 10468

Hours: 8 - 10 hours / week; Non Exempt, September - June

Schedule: Program Hours are Monday - Friday, 2pm - 6pm

Major Duties

• Teach age-appropriate instrumental music lessons that focus on technique, rhythm, posture, and musical expression.
• Follow and adapt a sequenced music curriculum that meets students’ skill levels and learning styles.
• Submit lesson and unit plans in advance for review.
• Introduce basic music theory, sight reading, and listening skills as part of instruction.
• Plan and lead a culminating performance, recital, or recording project at the end of each cycle.
• Work closely with the Program Director to align music instruction with program goals and expectations.
• Collaborate with group leaders and aides by assigning roles and communicating classroom needs.
• Provide guidance on how support staff can assist with practice and preparation between sessions.
• Ensure proper setup, tuning, storage, and care of all instruments and materials.
• Attend staff meetings and required trainings.
• Create a respectful, supportive environment where students are motivated to learn and perform.
• Bring patience, musical passion, and creativity to every class.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Experience and/or training relevant to the position required.
• Candidates with some college, experience with adolescents and teaching/coaching youth are encouraged to apply.
• Flexibility, creativity, and enthusiasm for young people
• Excellent planning, organization and time management skills
• Ability to engage youth, while setting structure and limits in a group setting.
• Energetic, motivated self-starter and a team player
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must have a commitment to work from a strength-based, youth and family development and trauma-informed perspective.