Lower School Music Teacher

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Instruction and Student Learning

• Plan and deliver developmentally appropriate music instruction for Lower School students.
• Teach foundational musical skills, including rhythm, melody, pitch, dynamics, and musical form.
• Integrate singing, movement, instrument exploration, and creative expression into daily instruction.
• Differentiate instruction to meet students’ diverse developmental, musical, and learning needs.
• Foster student confidence, collaboration, and joy in musical participation.

Lower School Choir Management

• Direct and rehearse Lower School choir ensembles as appropriate by grade level.
• Select age-appropriate and culturally diverse repertoire that reflects the school’s values and community.
• Teach healthy vocal technique, ensemble skills, and performance etiquette.
• Prepare students for school concerts, assemblies, and community events.

Parent Presentations and Community Engagement

• Plan and lead parent-facing performances, concerts, and musical presentations that showcase student learning.
• Communicate clearly with families regarding performance expectations, schedules, and student progress.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers and school leadership to integrate performances into the school calendar.
• Promote music education as a vital part of the Lower School experience.

Assessment and Feedback

• Use formative and summative assessments to monitor student progress in musical skills and participation.
• Provide constructive, age-appropriate feedback that supports student growth and confidence.
• Maintain accurate records of student learning and participation.

Collaboration and Professional Practice

• Collaborate with Lower School faculty, specialists, and student support staff to support interdisciplinary learning.
• Participate actively in grade-level meetings, professional development, and school-wide initiatives.
• Contribute to school events, celebrations, and community-building activities.
• Demonstrate professionalism in attendance, punctuality, communication, and conduct.

Certifications and Education

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Music Education or a related field.
• Valid teaching certification (licenciatura) in related fields (recognized in Brazil).

Desired

• Master’s degree in Music Education or related discipline.
• Training in early childhood or elementary music education methodologies (e.g., Orff, Kodály, Dalcroze).

Experience

Required

• Minimum of five years of teaching experience.
• Demonstrated experience teaching music to elementary-aged students.

Desired

• Experience in international or multicultural school settings.
• Experience directing children’s choirs and organizing school performances.
• Experience working collaboratively with families and community audiences.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Required

• Strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate music pedagogy.
• Ability to teach singing, rhythm, movement, and basic instrumental skills.
• Effective classroom management in active, performance-based learning environments.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with students, families, and colleagues.

Desired

• Familiarity with international curricula (e.g., IB PYP).
• Ability to integrate technology into music instruction and performances.
• Knowledge of vocal health and child-safe rehearsal practices.

Personal Attributes

Required

• Commitment to the school’s mission, vision, and values.
• Warmth, enthusiasm, and patience in working with young children.
• Professionalism, reliability, and strong organizational skills.
• Collaborative, reflective, and student-centered approach to teaching.

Desired

• Creativity and energy in lesson and performance design.
• Passion for building community through music and performance.
• Dedication to continuous professional growth and innovation.