Part Time Music Theory Instructor

The Salvation Army USA Western Territory; Chico (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Solid Rock Music Academy seeks a passionate Music Theory Instructor to deliver engaging lessons in notation, scales, harmony, rhythm, and ear training. You will tailor instruction to varied ages and skill levels, fostering a Christ-centered learning atmosphere that encourages musical excellence.

The role emphasizes preparing students for theory assessments and recitals, developing curriculum, and upholding the academy's standards and values in daily practice.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated proficiency in music theory with ability to explain concepts across styles and levels.
• Ability to read and interpret sheet music and convey concepts clearly to students.
• Prior experience teaching music theory or related subjects to various ages is preferred.
• Must be able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to build relationships with students, parents, and staff.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and deliver engaging, age-appropriate music theory lessons.
• Develop structured lesson plans and curriculum aligned with program standards and Christian values.
• Teach core music theory concepts including notation, scales, intervals, chords, harmony, rhythm, and ear training.
• Foster a Christ-centered, encouraging learning environment.
• Prepare students for theory assessments, recitals, and milestones.
• Follow all policies, safety procedures, and code of conduct.

Skills

Music theory

Sheet music reading

Student communication

Independent work

Interpersonal skills

Education

No formal music degree required

Job description

The Salvation Army Mission Statement:

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love for God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

BASIC PURPOSE

Solid Rock Music Academy is a Christ-centered music school committed to equipping students with musical skills, fostering creativity, and helping students develop their God-given talents in a nurturing and encouraging environment. The Music Theory Instructor provides high-quality, engaging instruction in music fundamentals to students of varying ages and skill levels, teaching concepts such as notation, scales, harmony, rhythm, and ear training in a way that strengthens each student's overall musicianship while inspiring a genuine love for music that glorifies God. As a representative of a Christian-based music school, the instructor is expected to model integrity, patience, encouragement, and a servant's heart while helping students reach their full musical potential.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Plan, prepare, and deliver engaging, age-appropriate music theory lessons tailored to each student's current knowledge, learning pace, and musical goals.
2. Develop structured lesson plans and curriculum aligned with Solid Rock Music Academy's program standards and Christian values.
3. Teach core music theory concepts including notation, scales, intervals, chords, harmony, rhythm, and ear training to support well-rounded musicianship.
4. Foster a Christ-centered, encouraging, and respectful learning environment that motivates students to pursue musical excellence.
5. Prepare students for SRMA theory assessments, recitals, showcases, and other academy milestones.
6. Follow all SRMA policies, safety procedures, and code of conduct at all times.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS

1. Demonstrated proficiency in music theory, with the ability to explain and apply concepts across a range of styles and difficulty levels.
2. Ability to read and interpret sheet music and communicate musical concepts clearly and accessibly to students.
3. Prior experience teaching music theory or a related subject to children, youth, or adults is strongly preferred.
4. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while also functioning effectively as part of a collaborative team.
5. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, parents, and staff.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

1. No formal music degree or diploma required; what matters most is a thorough working knowledge of music theory and the skills and ability to effectively teach music concepts to students of all ages.
2. Must be 18 years or older.
3. Completion of SRMA instructor orientation and any required safety training before beginning instruction.
4. Completion of Live Scan fingerprint check

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Ability to sit for extended periods while instructing students.
2. Ability to write on a whiteboard, use instructional materials, and demonstrate concepts clearly.
3. Ability to speak, listen, and communicate effectively in a lesson setting.
4. Ability to stand, walk, and move within the classroom as needed.
5. Ability to process written, visual, and verbal information.
6. Ability to lift and carry instructional materials, books, or equipment up to 20 lbs. as needed.

Qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without accommodation. A qualified person with a disability may request a modification or adjustment to the job or work environment in order to meet the physical requirements of the position. Solid Rock Music Academy will attempt to satisfy requests as long as the accommodation needed would not result in undue hardship.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.