GRIT Violin Instructor at Wallace Stegner Charter School, West Valley Campus About the Peterson School of Music The Diana & Joel Peterson School of Music is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization based in Salt Lake City, Utah, dedicated to making exceptional music education accessible to all. In addition to being a top-tier training institution whose graduates regularly attend premier collegiate programs, the School remains deeply committed to equity and access. Founded in 2009 by Eugene and Vera Watanabe (under the name Gifted Music School), the Peterson School of Music has grown into a leading institution through world-class faculty, comprehensive programming, and strong community support. Students consistently earn top honors in local and national competitions, and graduates matriculate to distinguished institutions such as The Juilliard School, Curtis Institute of Music, Stanford University, and universities across Utah. Through its three core programs—Academy, Conservatory, and GRIT—the School nurtures not only musical excellence but also character, discipline, and leadership. We believe music education extends far beyond performance, equipping students with the skills and confidence to thrive in all areas of life. Join Our Team - Position Summary The Peterson School of Music seeks an experienced and engaging violin instructor to join its GRIT Faculty. The instructor will provide high-quality instruction to students at Wallace Stegner Charter School, West Valley Campus from 3rd grade - 8th grade, from beginner to intermediate levels, while contributing to a collaborative and high-performing teaching environment. This role includes delivering weekly sectionals, lessons, and assisting the orchestra teacher with preparing students for performances and assessments. The instructor will also build and maintain a strong private program, communicate regularly with students and families, and contribute to departmental and school-wide initiatives. This is a part-time position; compensation is commensurate with experience.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Instruction & Student Development Peterson School of Music seeks a Violin Instructor for the Wallace Stegner Charter School GRIT Music Program. This position provides small group sectionals and private classes and performances for elementary - junior high school students (violin, viola, cello, and bass). Music instruction is integrated in their after school program . Classes reinforce literacy, numeracy, executive functioning, collaboration, and social-emotional learning through music-based instruction. The program serves students who are new - intermediate to music lessons and classes. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the West Valley Campus , 2671 South Stegner Way, West Valley City, UT 84128 3:15-4:15 Essential Duties and Responsibilities Deliver pedagogically sound instruction to beginning 3rd graders - intermediate middle and junior high school students. Integrate upper and lower string fundamentals to support academics. Teach music genres as developmentally appropriate. Collaborate with classroom teachers and music faculty to align instruction with academic goals. Participate in planning, curriculum coordination, and faculty collaboration within scheduled hours. Support student performances and demonstrations as appropriate. Program Participation and Evaluation Prepare students for and adjudicate, as applicable: Playing Assessments; Class Projects; Semester Final Playing Exam; Concerts and Recitals. Class Development & Communication Actively recruit and maintain a robust string program. Communicate regularly with students and families regarding process and goals. Assist students in preparing for playing assessments, exams, and performances. Manage attendance. Maintain timely and professional communication with students, family/guardians, and staff. Institutional Engagement Report to the GRIT Director and attend GRIT program events (meetings, concerts, fairs, and fundraising events). Participate in departmental and school-wide activities. Contribute to a collaborative and supportive faculty environment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Music, Music Education, Strings, or related field (advanced degree preferred). Minimum 3 years of experience teaching group piano and private lessons (beginner through advanced levels). Demonstrated string proficiency for classroom instruction. Experience teaching elementary-aged students in group settings. Strong communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills; ability to work independently. English proficiency required; additional languages (e.g., Spanish) a plus Commitment to equity, inclusion, and long-term program development Ability to perform essential job functions as outlined.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Advanced degree in music (MM, MMA, or DMA). Suzuki Training ECC - Violin Book 3 Active teaching career with a commitment to long-term engagement at the School. Excellent communication and organizational skills. Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in teaching practice. Strong understanding of comprehensive music education.

ONBOARDING REQUIREMENT

For instructors without an established track record in string pedagogy, classroom teaching, and student outcomes, the School requires 6 hours of lesson observation as part of onboarding: 4 hours observing a senior GRIT string instructor; 2 hours observing a senior Suzuki string instructor; If ECC training has not been completed, the candidate commits to completing their ECC within their first year at Peterson School of Music.

HIRING PROCESS

Qualified candidates are invited to submit application materials to careers@petersonschoolofmusic.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Application materials should include:

A resume or CV A cover letter, including a statement of interest in the position & professional strengths Teaching videos up to 30 minutes in length Selected candidates will be contacted for interviews and may be asked to provide references. Thank you for your interest in joining the Peterson School of Music The Peterson School of Music provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may contact careers@petersonschoolofmusic.org.

PROGRAM GROWTH EXPECTATION

This violin position is designed to grow in scope as additional campuses are added annually.

Pay:

$55.00 - $60.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person