Music Theory II Instructor

The Chicago High School for the Arts seeks a Music Theory II Instructor for the Spring Semester 2026.

Title: Music Theory II

Department: Music

Classification: Part-time instructor

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 Overview:

This class is designed for sophomore music students to further explore the intricacies of music theory. Throughout this course students will take their music literacy to the next level by engaging in topics such as part writing chord progressions harmonic function voice leading form phrase structure and analysis. Students will deepen their understanding of music theory and develop their ear by analyzing compositions creating their own compositions and continuing to sight-read more advanced excerpts.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in music theory aural skills and pedagogy and can inspire students to think critically and musically.

By the end of the course students will have the ability to:

• Perform intermediate sight reading and dictation exercises with accuracy.
• Understand and identify formal structures and forms in compositions.
• Display understanding of chord structures chord progressions and melodic harmonization through part writing.
• Realize orchestral part writing by applying knowledge of figured bass listening and analysis.
• Apply part writing rules by creating their own compositions.
• Identify and use seventh chords

Classroom and professional duties include but are not limited to the following:

• Embrace and promote the ChiArts vision mission educational approach goals and core values
• Prepare structured lessons that encourage and foster skill development critical thinking applications and ethics.
• Instruct conservatory-level courses serving students with various learning styles abilities and needs.
• Submit course documentation including syllabus unit plans lesson plans assignments assessments and all materials used in classroom instruction on a timely basis.
• Employ outstanding classroom management skills and implement the school code of conduct.
• Regularly assess student achievement skill mastery and career development skills.
• Manage classroom administration and record keeping including: grades attendance records student progress and documentation of student work.
• Regularly communicate with students parents and other ChiArts staff to share artistic progress encourage positive behavior and resolve behavioral and artistic issues.
• Attend and participate in faculty and administrative meetings parent conferences open house other school functions and in-service professional development sessions.
• Collaborate with the staff to develop best practices tailored to the unique philosophy and instructional approach of ChiArts and to the needs of its student population.
• Collaborate with other ChiArts artistic and academic faculty and the larger arts community.
• Perform other duties as the needs of the school and the needs of the students may demand (e.g. competitions exhibits.)
• Work with academic staff to ensure students overall success at ChiArts.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Attributes:

• Bachelors degree in Music Music Education or a related field.
• Preferred (7) years of professional experience in the music field.
• Preferred (4) years of previous teaching experience at a pre-professional or professional level experience working with high school students is preferred but not required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Excellent classroom management skills.
• Experience in lesson planning.
• Comfort working in a high-accountability school culture.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven organizational skills.
• Proven ability to work with a diverse population.
• High regard for student potential and an ability to provide opportunities for students to develop and succeed.
• Willingness to be bold and creative in pursuit of what is best for students.
• Able to adapt and improve in changing situations.

Working Conditions:

Job Hazards: This position requires a fingerprint and background check conducted by Chicago Public Schools.

Job Tasks:Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs.

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:

Part-time position.

Pay will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Pay rate:$45 to $55 per hour.

Non-Instructional Rate: $30/hour

Application Process

Qualified applicants should apply online atand upload the following documents:

1. Cover Letter
2. Resume
3. Contact Information for 3-5 Professional References; do not include letters of recommendation.

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.