Middle School Choir Teacher

Description The Blake School seeks a talented and committed Middle School Choir teacher to oversee a flourishing curricular program. This position is based on the Blake campus in Hopkins, Minnesota, and reports to the Middle School division director and the PK-12 director of visual and performing arts. Blake is particularly interested in candidates who will enrich the diversity of identity, lived experience and thinking that makes a community strong and empowers students to engage across differences. The expected salary range is typically $57,000-87,000, which reflects 4-15 years of experience. In making a salary determination, we consider professional experience, applicable qualifications and other job-related factors. Based on these factors, a candidate's salary offer could exceed this range. Applicants must complete the online job application, provide links to audio/video recordings (video preferred) of recent choral concerts conducted by the applicant, and provide digital copies of programs from recent concerts conducted by the applicant. Video recordings of the applicant rehearsing with a choir are also welcome. Application review will begin immediately. Blake will typically cover the travel and lodging costs for finalist candidates visiting from out of town.

Responsibilities:

Choral Instruction:

Teach 4-5 sections of Middle School choir (Grades 6-8), focusing on healthy vocal development, music theory, and ensemble cohesion for students of varying skill levels.

Curriculum Development:

Design and implement an engaging, inclusive choral curriculum that meets standards and incorporates differentiated instruction to support all learners.

Repertoire Selection:

Program a diverse and imaginative range of choral repertoire that fosters cultural awareness and artistic growth.

Performance Management:

Conduct regular rehearsals and prepare students for high-quality concerts, competitions, and public performances, including events scheduled outside of traditional school hours, such as evening concerts.

Student Mentorship:

Serve as an advisor and mentor to students, fostering a positive, inclusive environment that supports their overall well-being and creative interests.

Departmental Collaboration:

Actively participate in the Visual and Performing Arts department by attending meetings and collaborating with divisional and department colleagues on school-wide events.

Community Engagement:

Fully engage in the life of the school by participating in faculty meetings, professional development, and the unique community-based experiences of an independent school.

Mission Alignment:

Support the school's mission and leadership through professional conduct and a commitment to working with families and colleagues from diverse backgrounds.

Requirements Educational Foundation:

Bachelor's degree in Music, Music Education, or related field is required (BA/BS, BM, BME); a Master's degree (MA, MM, MME) is highly preferred.

Artistic Practice:

Must be an actively practicing musician with a deep commitment to ongoing musical performance or choral conducting.

Classroom Experience:

Significant experience leading a middle school choral program, with a proven track record in a classroom setting.

Vocal Pedagogy:

Deep knowledge of vocal techniques, healthy vocal development, and choral literature specifically suited for middle-grade voices.

Musical Proficiency:

Strong skills in score analysis and piano accompaniment, with the ability to lead rehearsals from the keyboard.

Performance Leadership:

Proven ability to organize, direct, and manage high-quality choral performances and school-wide musical events.

Early Adolescent Advocacy:

A genuine enthusiasm for the middle school years and a deep understanding of the unique developmental and social-emotional needs of early adolescents.

Instructional Innovation:

Proficiency in differentiating instruction and integrating music technology, employing best pedagogical practices to reach and inspire students of all skill levels and backgrounds.

Collaborative Spirit:

A demonstrated ability to work effectively and empathetically with students, families, and colleagues within a diverse school community.

Professional Communication:

Exceptional written and oral communication skills, paired with the strong organizational habits required to manage a busy performing arts schedule.