Jazz & Contemporary Piano Instructor

macphailcenterformusic; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 58,000 - 68,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

403b

Flexible Spending Account - Transit

Tuition Discounts

Professional Development

MN Safe & Sick Time

Job summary

MacPhail Center for Music seeks a Contemporary Piano Instructor to teach individualized piano lessons to students of all ages, with emphasis on beginners exploring jazz, pop, and rock styles. The role includes contributing to studio recitals and opportunities to coach small ensembles or lead classes.

The position is exempt and part-time, located on-site in Minneapolis. Responsibilities span instructional mentorship, administration, and performance prep, with a focus on inclusive,

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of studio teaching all ages and skill levels, with a significant portion for young students/beginners.
• Ability to teach diverse styles and tailor lessons.
• Commitment to high teaching standards and student-centered approaches.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality, individualized piano instruction across genres (jazz, pop, rock).
• Develop and lead lesson plans fostering growth and creativity.
• Maintain professional teaching standards and communicate with families.
• Coordinate studio logistics and scheduling.
• Support performance preparation for recitals and ensembles.
• Foster an inclusive, supportive learning environment and community outreach.

Skills

Pedagogical expertise

Instruction customization

Inclusive teaching

Education

Music degree or certification

Job description

Contemporary Piano Instructor

Reports To: Director of Electronic Music & Recording Arts (EMRA)

Department: Electronic Music & Recording Arts (EMRA)

Status: Exempt, Part Time

Location: Minneapolis, On-Site

Compensation: $42.00 - $49.00 per hour

• 403b
• Flexible Spending Account - Transportation
• Tuition Discounts
• Professional Development
• MN Safe & Sick Time

Job Summary

The Contemporary Piano Instructor teaches individual lessons to students of all ages and skill levels, with a special focus on engaging beginners interested in exploring a range of musical styles, including jazz, pop, and rock. The Instructor will be responsible for maintaining high standards of teaching expertise while introducing foundational piano techniques while nurturing each student’s creativity and musical interests across diverse genres. In addition to teaching, the Instructor will also participate in studio recitals and if desired, may have opportunities to coach small ensembles or lead group classes.

Responsibilities and Essential Functions

Instruction & Mentorship

• Provide high-quality, individualized piano instruction, including modeling effective techniques and musical interpretation through demonstration
• Develop and lead lesson plans that foster growth and creative exploration
• Maintain professional standards of teaching expertise, staying current with best practices in jazz, pop, and rock piano pedagogy
• Establish a good rapport with students and families, encouraging open discussion

Administrative

• Manage Studio Logistics including, but not limited to: lesson scheduling, registration, and regular communication with students and families

Performance Preparation

• Ensure students are performance-ready and understand the process of translating rehearsal work into public presentation

Community & Culture Building

• Foster an inclusive, student-centered environment that supports risk-taking, mutual respect, and creative expression
• Support outreach and communication efforts to help raise awareness, engage new participants, and connect the work of MacPhail Center for Music to the broader community
• Model curiosity, openness, and professionalism in all interactions with students, families, and colleagues

Qualifications

Education

• A degree or certification in music or music education, or the equivalent, preferred

Experience

• Minimum of three years of studio teaching all ages and skill levels, of which a significant portion is with young students and beginners, required
• Experience teaching small groups, preferred
• Experience teaching diverse styles of music, preferred

Skills & Abilities

• High standards of pedagogical expertise
• Ability to tailor instruction to individual goals
• Commitment to inclusive, student-centered teaching