Music Teacher Orchestra

Chelmsford Public Schools - Announcement of Teaching Vacancy for the 2026- 2027 School YearThe Chelmsford Public Schools is now accepting applications for the following anticipated vacancy. The district reserves the right to change this vacancy or not fill this vacancy based on further staffing changes enrollment or budget. Position: Music Teacher (Orchestra)Location: Parker Middle School Position Summary: Chelmsford Public Schools seeks a skilled student-centered orchestra educator whose primary instrument is a string instrument to teach grades 56 orchestra at Parker Middle School. This 1.0 FTE position is responsible for delivering sequential standards-aligned instruction in beginning and developing string orchestra preparing students for concerts and adjudicated events and contributing to the districts robust string recruitment and retention pipeline. The position requires strong organizational skills excellent communication and a demonstrated commitment to ensemble excellence and student growth. This position has substantial obligations outside the school day; evening concerts weekend festivals parent information nights instrument rental events and adjudicated performance days are recurring responsibilities throughout the school :* Bachelors degree in Music Education from an accredited college or university.* Valid Massachusetts DESE Teaching License in Music.* Primary instrument is a string instrument (violin viola cello or bass).* Demonstrated knowledge of playing mechanics technique and pedagogy across all orchestral string instruments.* Ability to diagnose and correct technique in string players at the beginning and developing levels.* Knowledge of age-appropriate orchestra repertoire and sequential string pedagogy methods.* Moderate piano skills sufficient for demonstration and classroom use.* Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with students families colleagues and administrators.* Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple concurrent responsibilities.* Commitment to fostering an inclusive equitable and student-centered learning Qualifications:* Masters degree in Music Education or String Performance/Pedagogy.* Experience teaching beginning strings at the elementary or middle school level.* Experience preparing students for MICCA or equivalent festivals/competitions.* Familiarity with music notation software (Finale Sibelius MuseScore) and digital tools for music instruction.* Knowledge of and commitment to current best practices in string pedagogy and culturally responsive music education.* Demonstrated success with student recruitment and retention in an instrumental music program.* Active membership in NAfME and the American String Teachers Association (ASTA).Instructional Responsibilities:* The orchestra teacher is responsible for planning delivering and assessing sequential string orchestra instruction at the grade 56 level in alignment with the district curriculum and the National and Massachusetts Music Education Standards.* Teach grade 5 Beginning Orchestra and grade 6 Orchestra following the districts established curriculum frameworks and pacing guides.* Develop and deliver instruction that builds foundational bow technique left-hand technique music literacy and ensemble skills appropriate to each level.* Demonstrate knowledge of all orchestral string instruments and provide accurate individualized technique correction across violin viola cello and bass sections.* Advise students on instrument quality and help guide families in obtaining appropriate instruments for beginning students and in upgrading instruments as students advance.* Select and order music that is appropriate to the ability level and musical development of students consistent with district curriculum goals.* Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of students across a range of ability levels learning styles and backgrounds.* Integrate culturally responsive and equity-centered perspectives into repertoire selection and classroom practice.* Adhere to National and MMEA Music Standards in all instructional planning and delivery.* Post student assessment updates at minimum every two weeks using the districts designated grading and Event Responsibilities:* The orchestra teacher prepares and conducts student ensembles for the following performances and events:* Winter Concert* Spring Concert* Memorial Day Assembly* WooSox Performance* MICCA competition * Various community events* Additional responsibilities include:* Prepare and facilitate distribution of programs for all performances.* Contact custodians and technical director in advance of all concerts.* Send the Fine and Performing Arts Coordinator copies of all concert programs in advance.* Organize and facilitate participation in MICCA competition Recruitment Transition and Community Responsibilities:* Participate in transition and recruitment activities supporting students moving from between grade levels and schools including the annual Instrument Test Drive for grade 4 students and the Grade 5-12 Stringfest event.* Collaborate with the grade 7-12 orchestra teachers to ensure a coherent sequential string curriculum from grades 5 through 12.* Communicate regularly with parents and families regarding student progress rehearsal expectations and upcoming Management and Professional Responsibilties:* Ensure that school-owned instruments are kept in working order and submitted for repair as needed; maintain an accurate instrument inventory.* Maintain and organize the string music library for assigned ensembles.* Manage program needs responsibly within district policies for purchasing inventory and budget.* Use the districts designated grading system (currently Aspen/X2) to record mid-term and semester grades for all students.* Communicate regularly with the Fine and Performing Arts Coordinator through email phone and department meetings keeping the Coordinator informed of classroom progress special events and any emerging issues.* Participate in department and building meetings and professional development activities.* Perform other duties as assigned by the building principal or Fine and Performing Arts Coordinator.

Required Experience:

IC