Prep Class and Training Ensemble Director/Music Theory Instructor

Chorus America; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 19,000 - 29,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading children's music organization seeks a dynamic Prep Class and Training Ensemble Director to inspire young singers through foundational vocal training. This part-time role involves teaching K-3 students, fostering a supportive environment, and collaborating with staff to enhance musical experiences. Ideal candidates will have strong backgrounds in vocal pedagogy and music instruction, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Minimum three years teaching experience with young musicians.
• Passion for music education and developing artistic growth.
• Strong choral conducting experience with elementary school singers.

Responsibilities

• Lead weekly classes and rehearsals, effective teaching.
• Foster positive relationships with families and students.
• Select diverse, age-appropriate repertoire for vocal development.

Skills

Vocal pedagogy

Classroom management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Inclusive teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in music

Master's degree in music (preferred)

Tools

Google Suite

Chorus Connection

Weebly

Job description

Prep Class and Training Ensemble Director/Music Theory Instructor

Title: Prep Class and Training Ensemble Director / Music Theory Instructor(Part-time, non-exempt)

Reports to : Artistic Director

Hours: Sundays 1:20PM-2:20PM and 2:30-3:30PM - Preparatory Classes

Sundays 3:45-5:00PM and Tuesdays 4:45PM-6:00PM - Training Ensembles

Sundays 5:00PM-5:45PM, Advanced Music Theory / Tuesdays 6:00PM-6:30PM, Beginning Music Theory

Location: St. Columba’s Episcopal Church (4201 Albemarle St NW)

ABOUT CHILDREN’S CHORUS OF WASHINGTON:

Children’s Chorus of Washington (CCW), now approaching its 30th season, nurtures artistic excellence and empowers young singers by celebrating our shared humanity and the value of every voice. CCW pursues a vision of a chorus that represents the racial, cultural, and economic diversity of the Greater Washington community, making its outstanding program accessible to children and youth of all backgrounds. Celebrated as the premier youth chorus in the nation’s capital, our 300+ singers, ranging from ages 6 to 18, regularly perform in DC’s most prestigious venues and tour worldwide.

JOB SUMMARY AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Children’s Chorus of Washington (CCW) is seeking a dynamic and engaging Vocal/Choral Director to teach preparatory classes and lead the Training Ensemble at our Northwest (NW) D.C. location for the 2025-2026 season, beginning in late August and ending in early June.

The Prep Class, for children in grades K-1, teaches foundational vocal skills through songs and games and a safe and welcoming environment. An informal performance is held at the end of each semester for friends and family.

The Training Ensemble, for children in grades 2-3, builds on these skills and begins to develop choral skills, such as following one’s vocal part on a lead sheet or simple score and blending in a group. The Training Ensemble performs approximately 2 times per semester.

Both the Prep Class and Training Ensemble are un-auditioned, with a focus on developing head tone and pitch matching. The Director will plan and lead weekly lessons, teach healthy vocal technique and choral skills, prepare singers for performances and ensemble advancement. The Director will also complete a feedback form for each student at the end of each semester. CCW prioritizes student and family relationships, and this Director must foster a positive, inclusive ensemble culture and maintain strong communication with families. Other responsibilities include selecting developmentally appropriate, diverse repertoire and collaborating with the Artistic Director, accompanists, and staff to ensure a cohesive and enriching musical experience. Additional opportunities to teach one or more sections of CCW’s music theory curriculum for singers in our performing ensembles is available.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead weekly classes and rehearsals using effective and inspiring teaching methods.
• Collaborate with the teaching assistant/pianist to deliver well-planned, cohesive instruction.
• Select diverse, age-appropriate repertoire that supports vocal development and musical growth.
• Prepare choristers for performances and promotion to the next ensemble level.
• Upload rehearsal recordings and assignments to the Music Portal.
• Work with the Artistic Director and staff to plan performances and integrate the ensemble into larger organizational programming.
• Provide mid-year and year-end evaluations for choristers.
• Serve as a public representative and advocate for the ensemble.
• Foster a positive, inclusive ensemble culture and maintain strong relationships with singers and families.
• Communicate regularly with the Artistic Director and staff regarding rehearsal needs and student concerns.
• Attend monthly staff meetings, auditions, and promotion assessments as needed.

Qualifications:

• At least three years of choral conducting experience with elementary-school aged singers
• Passion for music education and a commitment to nurturing the artistic growth and development of children.
• Knowledge of vocal pedagogy, child development and age appropriate teaching techniques that apply musical concepts and vocal technique to the repertoire,factoring multiple learning styles
• Ability to sing and demonstrate music in a straight head tone
• Knowledge of and experience teaching Kodaly are preferred
• Broad knowledge of diverse musical genres and styles
• Strong classroom and rehearsal management skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with students, parents and staff.
• Comfort with, or willingness to learn Google Suite, Chorus Connection, and Weebly platforms for staff communication and accessing student work
• Collaborative and inclusive approach to artistic creation and problem solving, and desire to be an effective team member

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree (minimum); Master's degree or higher (preferred); or comparable educational or professional experience in music - experience in Kodaly, solfege, and comfortable with singing, piano, and solfege.
• Minimum of three years experience working with young musicians (Ages 8-13)
• Availability to participate in chorus rehearsals, classes, performances, and special events (intensives, tech rehearsals, etc)

COMPENSATION

The hourly rate of this position is $80 per hour based on experience.

HOW TO APPLY

For immediate consideration, submit a letter of interest and resume, including two references, to Michelle Ravitsky at [e-mail]. Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Employment is contingent upon providing proof that you are legally able to work in the United States as required by the Department of Homeland Security and a successful background check.

Children’s Chorus of Washington seeks to engage and retain a diverse workforce that represents the diversity of our city. CCW encourages all to apply and does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristics protected by law.