Simply Strings Teaching Artist Program:

Simply Strings, Santa Rosa Symphony Compensation:

$62.00/hour Reports to:

Education Programs Manager Dates:

September 28, 2026 - May 21, 2027 (24 weeks total; three 8-week sessions)

Hours:

MTThF, 3:00-6:00, Wed 1:00-4:00

Location:

Sheppard Accelerated Elementary School, 1777 West Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95407 __________________________________________________________________________

SANTA ROSA SYMPHONY SIMPLY STRINGS PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Inspired by El Sistema, Venezuela's acclaimed social action music network, Simply Strings develops musical excellence and promotes social engagement. Through this program, based at Sheppard Accelerated Elementary School in Roseland, children beginning in second grade receive daily intensive ensemble instruction three hours a day, five days a week after school.

POSITION SUMMARY

Simply Strings is looking for a dynamic teaching artist to provide general music and beginning-level violin instruction to elementary students, starting at the 2nd grade level. Emphasis is on Kodaly, Dalcroze, Suzuki, and other developmentally appropriate strategies to support student engagement and learning. Experience in one or more of these methodologies is preferred. Bilingual (Spanish) candidates are encouraged to apply.

QUALIFICATIONS

Maintain a vibrant, positive and supportive environment for students, families and other staff. With the support of the Simply Strings teacher's aides and mentors, teach instrument specific lessons, small and large-group ensembles, and a variety of settings in support of the El Sistema teaching philosophy.

• Expertise in Kodaly, Suzuki, Orff, Dalcroze or other early childhood pedagogy a plus. Team teach ensemble classes (if applicable) with mixed instrumentation. Create lessons that integrate musicianship and music literacy. In collaboration with the Simply Strings Manager and colleagues, create lesson plans that are in alignment with the Symphony's overall goals and the values of El Sistema USA. Actively encourage peer-teaching as a regular curricular component. Collaborate with other faculty to foster cross-program learning and extension opportunities. Work with mentors, fellow faculty, and parents to promote or support student success. Attend and participate in professional development sessions provided by or connected to SRS Education Department.

• Pass criminal record clearance, fingerprint clearance, mandated reporter training and willingness to complete other related trainings.

POSITION

The Simply Strings Teaching Artist is a part-time, non-exempt position. Programmatic activities generally take place at Sheppard Elementary with some community concerts at various venues locations. Other administrative tasks may be performed remotely.

COMPENSATION

Target compensation for this position is $62/hour. Schedule is anticipated to be approximately 15 hours per week for three 8-week sessions throughout the school year. Compensation package includes paid sick time.

TO APPLY

Email cover letter, resume, and links to a group teaching video clip not to exceed 15 minutes in total to Ella Steinberg, Director of Education and Community Engagement, at esteinberg@srsymphony.org. Include job title in subject line. No phone calls, please. The position will be open until filled. The Santa Rosa Symphony is committed to providing equal opportunity for all persons employed or seeking employment with the Symphony. The Symphony will recruit, hire, retain, promote, and otherwise treat all employees and job applicants equally, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, medical condition, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

Pay:

$62.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person