What are the responsibilities and job description for the Contemporary Voice, Songwriting, & Production Instructor position at MacPhail Center for Music?
TITLE: Contemporary Voice, Songwriting, & Production Instructor
REPORTS TO: Director of Electronic Music and Recordings Arts Program (EMRA)
DEPARTMENT: Electronic Music and Recordings Arts Program (EMRA)
STATUS: Exempt, Part Time
LOCATION: Minneapolis, On-Site
COMPENSATION: $42.00 - $49.00 per hour
BENEFITS: 403b, Flexible Spending Account - Transportation, Tuition Discounts, Professional Development, MN Safe & Sick Time
JOB SUMMARY
The Contemporary Voice, Songwriting, & Production Instructor teaches individual lessons in voice, songwriting, and music production to students of all ages and experience levels, with an emphasis on engaging beginners and intermediate learners. Instruction will span a variety of contemporary styles, including pop, rock, jazz, electronic music, and singer-songwriter genres.
The Instructor guides students through essential concepts such as melody, lyrics, song structure, music theory, and arranging, while encouraging creative exploration and artistic development. The Instructor will also participate in studio recitals and, if desired, may have opportunities to support group classes or coach small ensembles.
RESPONSIBILITES and ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Instruction & Mentorship
Education
REPORTS TO: Director of Electronic Music and Recordings Arts Program (EMRA)
DEPARTMENT: Electronic Music and Recordings Arts Program (EMRA)
STATUS: Exempt, Part Time
LOCATION: Minneapolis, On-Site
COMPENSATION: $42.00 - $49.00 per hour
BENEFITS: 403b, Flexible Spending Account - Transportation, Tuition Discounts, Professional Development, MN Safe & Sick Time
JOB SUMMARY
The Contemporary Voice, Songwriting, & Production Instructor teaches individual lessons in voice, songwriting, and music production to students of all ages and experience levels, with an emphasis on engaging beginners and intermediate learners. Instruction will span a variety of contemporary styles, including pop, rock, jazz, electronic music, and singer-songwriter genres.
The Instructor guides students through essential concepts such as melody, lyrics, song structure, music theory, and arranging, while encouraging creative exploration and artistic development. The Instructor will also participate in studio recitals and, if desired, may have opportunities to support group classes or coach small ensembles.
RESPONSIBILITES and ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Instruction & Mentorship
- Provide high-quality, individualized instruction in voice, songwriting, and music production across a range of contemporary styles, including pop, rock, jazz, electronic music, and singer-songwriter genres
- Teach core musical concepts such as melody, lyrics, song structure, harmony, music theory, and arranging in a way that is accessible and inspiring to learners of varying skill levels
- Incorporate relevant music production tools, software, and workflows into lessons, helping students develop foundational skills in digital music creation
- Establish a good rapport with students and families, encouraging open discussion
- Manage Studio Logistics including, but not limited to: lesson scheduling, registration, and regular communication with students and families
- Proactively research and implement current trends and best practices in contemporary music, voice pedagogy, songwriting, and digital production
- Ensure students are performance-ready and understand the process of translating rehearsal work into public presentation
- 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
Education
- A degree or certification in music or music education, or the equivalent, preferred
- Minimum of three years of studio teaching of all ages and skill levels, of which a significant portion is with young students and beginners, required
- Experience teaching group instruction and diverse musical styles (pop, rock, electronic-music, singer-songwriter), preferred
- Proficiency in Digital Audio Workstations (DAW) such as Ableton Live or Logic Pro, along with recording, mixing, and strong knowledge of songwriting techniques and music theory, required
- Functional vocal, piano, and guitar skills, required
- Performance experience and a discography with at least two published albums, preferred
- Strong musicianship
- Strong communication and cultural competency skills
- Commitment to inclusive, student-centered teaching
- Ability to engage with students across musical styles
Salary : $42 - $49
