Early Childhood Teaching Artist

The New England Conservatory, an independent not-for-profit institution, is recognized internationally as a leader among music schools, educating and training musicians of all ages from around the world. With music students representing more than 40 countries, NEC cultivates a diverse, dynamic community for students, providing them with performance opportunities and high-caliber training by 225 internationally esteemed artist-teachers and scholars. NEC pushes the boundaries of making and teaching music through college-level musical training in classical, jazz, and Contemporary Improvisation. It offers unique interdisciplinary programs such as Entrepreneurial Musicianship and Community Performances & Partnerships that empower students to create their own musical opportunities. As part of NEC's mission to make lifelong music education available to everyone, the Preparatory School and School of Continuing Education delivers training and performance opportunities for children, pre-college students, and adults

Position Overview 

The Early Childhood Music Teaching Artist at NEC Prep is a passionate and experienced educator responsible for delivering a high-quality musical curriculum to children from three months old to pre-K (ages 0-5). This position plays a crucial role in fostering a love for music, developing foundational musical skills, and creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment for young learners and their families. The Early Childhood Music Teaching Artist will be supervised by the Director of Early Childhood Education and work collaboratively with other faculty members to deliver exceptional music education experiences within the program. Teaching for NEC’s Early Childhood Pilot Program takes place in community-based early learning centers in Dorchester, Mattapan, Jamaica Plain and the South End, in classroom settings.

Essential Functions of the Role

• Curriculum Delivery:

  • Develop and deliver age-appropriate music lessons and activities that align with the program's curriculum goals and objectives.

  • Create engaging lesson plans that incorporate a variety of musical elements, such as singing, movement, rhythm, and instrumental exploration.

  • Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment that encourages active participation and supports each child's individual learning needs.

  • Integrate diverse musical styles and cultures to promote cultural appreciation and global awareness among young learners.

• Instructional Delivery:

  • Employ effective teaching strategies and pedagogical techniques to engage children in active music-making and creative expression.

  • Facilitate group activities and individualized instruction, providing guidance and feedback to support children's musical growth.

  • Use developmentally appropriate methods to introduce fundamental musical concepts, such as pitch, tempo, dynamics, steady beat and rhythm patterns.

  • Encourage collaborative learning, peer interaction, and the development of social and emotional skills through music activities.

• Classroom Management:

  • Establish and maintain a safe, structured, and supportive classroom environment that promotes positive behavior and respectful interactions.

  • Manage classroom materials and resources, ensuring they are organized and accessible for instructional purposes.

  • Implement effective strategies to manage transitions, routines, and group dynamics, maintaining an engaging and focused learning atmosphere.

• Parent and Community Engagement:

  • Collaborate with the Director of Early Childhood Education to support and extend music learning at home for families, providing resources and suggestions for musical experiences beyond the classroom. 

  • Participate in occasional open houses and community events to foster positive relationships and promote the program's mission and impact.

• Professional Development:

  • Stay updated on current research, trends, and best practices in early childhood music education.

  • Seek opportunities for professional growth, such as attending workshops, conferences, or pursuing advanced certifications in music education.

  • Collaborate with fellow faculty members and the Early Childhood Education Director, sharing knowledge, experiences, and innovative teaching approaches.

Qualifications and Characteristics

Candidates should bring many of the following skill sets and experiences:

• Bachelor's degree in music education, music performance, or a related field (or equivalent experience). Master's degree preferred.

• Proven experience teaching music to young children in an early childhood or elementary school setting.

• Experience and training with applied music methodologies for young children preferred: “Music Learning Theory” by E. Gordon, Dalcroze, Kodaly, Orff, Suzuki, etc.

• Strong musical proficiency and knowledge in areas such as singing, movement, rhythm, and basic music theory.

• Playing an instrument or willingness to learn an accompaniment instrument is preferred.

• Ability to create engaging and developmentally appropriate lesson plans and activities for young learners. 

• Align with the program’s curriculum goals and objectives. 

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with children, classroom teachers, site administrators, parents, and colleagues effectively.

• Patience, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for working with young children and fostering their love for music.

• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, supporting the program's goals and contributing to its overall success.

• Dedication to lifelong learning, and willingness to adapt to the needs of the program curriculum, and the community being served. 

Application Process

• Submit your application online through the jobscore link on the NEC website.

• Submit a cover letter stating your teaching philosophy and addressing your qualifications, interest, and desire to work with early childhood classrooms.

• Submit a resume presenting your skills and qualifications for the position.

• Submit a minimum of three professional references with contact information.

• Candidates may be asked to submit videos representing their teaching. Instructions for video submission will be provided to selected candidates.

• Final candidates will be invited to lead a live demo lesson with students at one of our partner early childhood centers. 

Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties, or responsibilities associated with the role.

Schedule and Compensation

• Job Type: Part-Time, hourly

• Rate: $65-$75 

• Schedule Each Week: M-F up to 20 hours weekly, individual teaching schedules to be mutually determined.

• Working Conditions: At partner early childhood site locations in the Boston Area. In person.