Located in Pasadena, California, Westridge is a forward-thinking independent school for girls in grades 4-12 that emphasizes adventurous thinking, courageous, compassionate leadership, and equity and inclusion. Our school community is vibrant and diverse and grounded in the commitment to goodness in all aspects of life and learning. We balance challenging academics and a focus on leadership development with a priority on social emotional wellness, development of one’s sense of self, values, and goals, and thoughtful consideration of individuals’ responsibilities to others and the world.

The Music Department is committed to providing a community-based learning experience where students practice musicianship, creativity, teamwork, and resilience. Music-making is deeply connected to the human experience and as such is a valued and integral part of a Westridge student’s education. The music curriculum is designed to provide holistic musical training with an emphasis and appreciation of music from all world cultures. The Music Department believes that students develop an appreciation of music by learning to make music themselves. Students will demonstrate their growth through a variety of modalities including, but not limited to, performance, improvisation, responsiveness, creativity, and connection.

Westridge is seeking an experienced and dynamic Middle and Upper School Orchestra Teacher to join our team of dedicated faculty members. This teacher will have the opportunity to build upon a strong foundation already in place to develop an innovative and creative program. Responsibilities will include teaching and conducting the Upper School Intermediate Orchestra (a non-auditioned ensemble), and teaching and directing the Middle School Orchestra (an ensemble of various skill levels). In addition, this teacher will maintain the school’s instrument library.

Specific Qualities Desired Include:  

• §  Dedication to teaching young women and to employing effective pedagogical processes
• §  Ability to build and grow students’ musical abilities in an empowering and uplifting manner
• §  Ability to teach and build the technical skills of strings players
• §  Familiarity with and enthusiasm for a wide range of musical genres
• §  Ability to select appropriately challenging pieces within a wide range of genres
• §  Ability to arrange music appropriate for each ensemble
• §  Ability to manage a classroom and direct effective rehearsals
• §  Enthusiastic about the subject and able to share that enthusiasm
• §  Willingness and ability to collaborate effectively with students, teachers, and parents

• Participate regularly in professional development opportunities to maintain and grow expertise in the subject matter
• Participate in ongoing skill development in diversity and equity to promote a culture of community and inclusion

• §  Participate in the greater life of the division and school

• Serve as an advisor
• Take on other duties as needed

Qualifications

• §  Bachelor’s Degree required (music preferred); advanced degree, e.g. MA in Music Education preferred
• §  String player (violin, viola, cello or bass) preferred
• §  3 years’ teaching experience preferred
• §  Proficiency with music notation technology (e.g., Finale, Sibelius, Noteflight, etc.)
• §  Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• §  Demonstrated experience and skill in the effective use of technology and integrating technological applications in the classroom
• §  Collaborative and collegial
• §  Diligent and well-organized
• §  Possess a strong commitment to the mission and vision of Westridge School

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

• §  Ability to work both indoors and outdoors as required (i.e. field trips, overnight trips).
• §  Move chairs, stands, instruments as needed

Schedule and Salary

This is a full-time exempt position and is eligible for Westridge’s comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off, medical, vision, dental, and generous retirement plan. Office hours are 7:50am-3:30pm; with flexibility to work evenings and weekends when necessary. Annual salary depends on qualifications and years of experience teaching with a range of $63,000 - $100,000+.

To Apply

Send cover letter, resume, and references to Jobs@Westridge.org. Include “Middle and Upper School Orchestra Teacher” in the subject line.

Westridge School is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are evaluated without consideration of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. For more information: www.Westridge.org.