The Chicago High School for the Arts

2025-2026 Music Theory I Instructor

CHICAGO, ILPosted 25 days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from The Chicago High School for the Arts

  • Job overview

    The 2025-2026 Music Theory I Instructor role at The Chicago High School for the Arts involves teaching freshmen foundational music theory to develop their music literacy and musicianship skills.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The instructor will prepare and deliver structured lessons on music theory, manage classroom behavior, assess student progress, maintain records, communicate with students and parents, participate in school events, collaborate with faculty, and support student success.

  • Compensation and benefits

    This part-time position pays $55/hour for teaching and $30/hour for non-instructional duties; specific benefits are not detailed.

  • Experience and skills

    Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Music or related field, preferably 7 years of professional music experience and 4 years of teaching experience, strong communication, classroom management, lesson planning skills, and ability to work with diverse students.

  • Work environment and culture

    The school promotes a high-accountability, student-centered culture focused on diversity, continuous learning, and collaboration among staff to support scholar-artists.

  • Company information

    The Chicago High School for the Arts is a diverse, pre-professional arts high school focused on intensive arts training combined with college preparatory education, emphasizing whole-student development.

  • Job location and travel

    The position is based in Chicago with no travel required except for optional professional development; it involves working in a school environment.

  • Application process

    Applicants must apply online at www.chiarts.org with a cover letter, resume, and professional references; background checks are required.

  • Unique job features

    The role involves teaching conservatory-level music theory to high school freshmen with a focus on foundational skills and engagement in a diverse, arts-focused educational setting.

Company overview

The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) is a public arts high school in Chicago, Illinois, dedicated to providing a rigorous pre-professional arts training program combined with a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum. Established in 2009, ChiArts offers majors in dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and creative writing, allowing students to develop their artistic talents while ensuring academic excellence. The school is funded through a combination of public funding and private donations, making it accessible to talented students from diverse backgrounds. ChiArts has a history of producing graduates who go on to prestigious colleges and successful careers in the arts.

How to land this job

  • Tailor your resume to emphasize your strong musicianship skills, classroom experience, and ability to engage freshmen in foundational music theory concepts such as intervals, notation, scales, and harmony.

  • Highlight your experience in lesson planning, classroom management, and working with diverse student populations, as these are key components of the role at ChiArts.

  • Apply through multiple channels including the official ChiArts website at www.chiarts.org and LinkedIn to maximize your visibility for this part-time instructor position.

  • Connect with current music faculty or staff in the Music Department at The Chicago High School for the Arts on LinkedIn; start conversations by complimenting their work with students or asking about the school's approach to music education and student engagement.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'music theory,' 'lesson planning,' 'classroom management,' 'student assessment,' and 'diverse learner support' to improve your chances of passing initial screenings.

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