Interim Music Department Head
Interim Music Department Head
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Job Description
Job Details
Description
The Chicago High School for the Arts seeks an InterimMusic Department Head forthe 2025-26 school year.
Title: Interim Music Department Head
Department:Music Conservatory
Classification:Full-Time - 12-month assignment
General Summary:
The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts ) develops the next generation of artistically gifted diverse scholar artists through intensive pre-professional training in the arts combined with a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum. The school approaches the development of students through a whole-student approach and through a continuous learning environment for all staff to continuously develop their understanding of our scholar-artists. We strive to build upon and improve our practices to make sure we are always serving all of our students to the best of our abilities.
Position Summary
ChiArts is seeking a visionary and collaborativeInterim Music Department Headto lead a dynamic team of teaching artists (instrumentalists and vocal educators). The ideal candidate is an experienced music educator and administrator with a strong background in a range of musical disciplines and a deep commitment to equity student voice and interdisciplinary collaboration.
This leadership role is central to shaping a vibrant inclusive and rigorous music conservatory experience for high school students from diverse backgrounds. The Head of the Music Department will also play a vital role in recruiting identifying and nurturing promising young scholar-artists from across Chicago ensuring equitable access to pre-professional arts training for historically underrepresented communities.
Qualifications
Key Responsibilities
Provide strategic leadership artistic vision and daily oversight of the Music Department
Supervise and support music faculty including performance reviews professional development and scheduling
Oversee curriculum development and ensure alignment with ChiArts artistic and academic standards
Facilitate ensemble placements juries auditions concerts and student showcases
Collaborate with Academic Department Heads and other Conservatory leaders to foster interdisciplinary connections
Partner with Admissions to support recruitment and audition processes for prospective music students with an emphasis on equity and access
Build relationships with community music programs feeder schools and citywide organizations to expand outreach and student pipelines
Manage department budget equipment inventory and instrument maintenance
Serve as an advocate and liaison for the department to school leadership families and external arts partners
Support student growth and wellness through inclusive practices and culturally responsive pedagogy
Stay current on educational best practices and developments in the field of music and arts education
Qualifications
Required:
Bachelors degree in Music Music Education or related field (Masters preferred)
Minimum 5 years of teaching or artistic leadership experience in music education or performance
Demonstrated success in curriculum development and arts administration
Deep understanding of various music genres (classical jazz contemporary and/or world traditions)
Experience working with diverse student populations and a commitment to inclusive anti-racist practices
Strong organizational communication and interpersonal skills
Preferred:
Masters degree in Music Education Conducting Arts Leadership or related discipline
Experience managing a team and leading professional development
Knowledge of Chicagos arts and cultural ecosystem
Familiarity with CPS policies and systems
Working Conditions:
Job Hazards: This position requires a fingerprint and background check conducted by Chicago Public Schools.
Travel Requirements:This position does not require travel as part of the job responsibilities however travel may be required to attend professional development/conferences.
Salary and Benefits:
Full-time position.
Pay will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Benefits package including health insurance retirement contributions and professional development opportunities.
Application Process
Qualified applicants should apply online atand upload the following documents:
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- Contact Information for 3-5 Professional References; do not include letters of recommendation.
- (Optional) Portfolio materials: video of performances teaching samples or concert programs
Applicants who do not follow the submission directions will not be considered. Please be aware that every item listed on a resume is subject to verification and that any offer of employment is contingent on a successful background check.
ChiArts has a commitment to diversity inclusion and cultural competency. Our aim is to maintain an inclusive respectful and equitable workplace in order to most effectively achieve our mission and secure the best possible outcomes for our students.
Please visitfor more information.
Employment Type
Unclear
