Founding Music Teacher & Program Director, El Sistema

Manhattan Charter School for the Curious Minds; New York (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Job summary

Manhattan Charter School seeks a founding Music Teacher / Program Lead to launch and lead an El Sistema–inspired program, building a joyful, rigorous, and inclusive culture of music-making in a start-up setting.

The candidate will teach group instrumental classes, design the program structure, recruit students and families, and collaborate with school leadership to align music with the school mission while supporting growth through partnerships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, Performance, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• Experience in restorative practices and de-escalation techniques.
• Proven success teaching music in ensemble settings (K–8 preferred).
• Commitment to social equity and belief in music's transformative power.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills; comfortable with start-up environments.
• Fluency in Spanish or another community language (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Teach group instrumental classes and direct ensembles.
• Design the founding program structure and calendar.
• Recruit students and families into the program.
• Collaborate with school leadership and educators to align music with the school mission.
• Coordinate with families, partners, and artists to enrich student experiences.
• Support program growth through grants and partnerships.

Skills

Restorative practices

De-escalation techniques

Ensemble instruction

Leadership

Equity commitment

Start-up/organizational skills

Spanish language

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, Performance, or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

Manhattan Charter School seeks a founding Music Teacher / Program Lead to launch and lead an El Sistema–inspired program, building a joyful, rigorous, and inclusive culture of music-making in a start-up setting.

The candidate will teach group instrumental classes, design the program structure, recruit students and families, and collaborate with school leadership to align music with the school mission while supporting growth through partnerships.