Long Term Substitute Teacher-Orchestra

Addison Trail High School

Long Term Substitute Teacher- Music Director Orchestra

Available: November 02, 2026- December 18, 2026

Key Responsibilities:

Orchestra Instruction:

Teach and support two orchestra classes, providing instruction in string technique, ensemble skills, music literacy, intonation, rhythm, tone production, bowing, and musical expression.

Guitar Instruction:

Teach and support two guitar classes, focusing on beginning/intermediate guitar technique, chord reading, note reading, rhythm, fingerpicking/PIMA technique, ensemble playing, and individual skill development.

Rehearsals and Class Instruction:

Lead daily class rehearsals and lessons that continue established curriculum, repertoire preparation, playing assessments, and ensemble goals.

Music Literacy:

Support students in reading standard notation, rhythms, chord symbols, tablature when appropriate, key signatures, time signatures, and other foundational music theory concepts.

Technique Development:

Provide instruction on proper posture, hand position, bow hold, left-hand technique, tone production, strumming, fingerpicking, and other instrument-specific fundamentals.

Ensemble Preparation:

Help students prepare assigned repertoire for upcoming performances, assessments, or classroom playing evaluations.

Classroom Management:

Maintain a positive, structured, and productive classroom environment that supports student learning, musicianship, and respectful participation.

Assessment and Feedback:

Monitor student progress, provide constructive feedback, and continue established playing tests, written reflections, practice assignments, and other classroom assessments as needed.

Collaboration:

Work with the Music Department Chair, the Fine Arts Department, accompanists, student leaders, and the school administration to ensure continuity of instruction and adherence to program expectations.

Equipment and Materials:

Assist students with proper use and care of school instruments, guitars, bows, cases, sheet music, classroom technology, and rehearsal materials.

Communication:

Communicate professionally with students, families, and staff as needed regarding assignments, rehearsals, performances, and classroom expectations.

Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of orchestra rehearsal techniques and string pedagogy
• Ability to teach violin, viola, cello, and bass fundamentals
• Ability to teach beginning/intermediate guitar technique
• Proficiency in music theory, rhythm, notation, and sight-reading
• Strong classroom management and communication skills
• Ability to work with students of varying musical experience levels
• Collaborative mindset within a high school music department
• Ability to continue established curriculum, repertoire, and assessment plans
• Piano skills are helpful but not required

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Music Education, Music Performance, or a related field
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License preferred
• Experience teaching orchestra, strings, guitar, or secondary music preferred
• Experience working with high school students preferred
• Ability to lead ensemble-based instruction and support individual student growth
• Strong organizational skills and willingness to follow existing lesson plans, routines, and department expectations