Position: Music Teacher

Reports to: Grades Director

Evaluated: Annually 

FLSA Qualification:  Non-exempt

Position Purpose: 

The Music Teacher is responsible for fostering an appreciation for music and supporting the musical development of students in alignment with Waldorf education principles. The teacher will create a dynamic, creative, and nurturing environment where students are encouraged to explore music through singing, movement, instrumental play, and listening. This position plays a vital role in cultivating both a love for music and an understanding of its connection to other areas of learning, while also supporting students' social-emotional growth and overall development. The Music Teacher’s approach will be holistic, focusing on the integration of mind, body, and spirit in every musical experience.

The Music Teacher's responsibilities:

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate music lessons for all grade levels, from early childhood through the grades, in alignment with Waldorf education principles.
• Integrate singing, music theory, rhythm, movement, and instrumental play into the curriculum, encouraging both individual and group expression.
• Teach a range of musical activities, including but not limited to vocal exercises, music appreciation, rhythm games, basic instrumental skills, and improvisation.
• Foster an environment of creativity, self-expression, and emotional exploration through music, encouraging students to use music as a way to connect with themselves and others.
• Support the emotional, intellectual, and physical development of students through music, focusing on building confidence, teamwork, and self-discipline.
• Promote collaborative skills by facilitating group performances and ensemble work, helping students learn to cooperate and appreciate the contributions of others.
• Encourage students to express their emotions and experiences through music, helping them connect deeply with the content and with each other.
• Support students in developing their listening skills, attention, and concentration through active musical engagement.
• Organize and direct school performances, concerts, or festivals that involve student participation, including seasonal or community events.
• Coordinate with other faculty members to incorporate music into school-wide events, seasonal celebrations, and festivals.
• Provide guidance and leadership in preparing students for public performances, ensuring they are confident, well-rehearsed, and excited to share their music.
• Observe and assess student progress in musical development, offering individualized support as needed for students who may require additional guidance or encouragement.
• Tailor instruction to meet the developmental stages and unique needs of students, ensuring that each child feels seen, valued, and capable in their musical growth.
• Provide constructive feedback to students and their parents regarding progress, challenges, and opportunities for further development in music.
• Create a safe, nurturing, and organized classroom environment that supports creative and focused learning.
• Foster a classroom culture that values respect, cooperation, and shared responsibility, allowing students to thrive both as individuals and as part of the group.
• Maintain musical instruments and other classroom materials, ensuring they are in good working order and accessible for students.
• Collaborate with other faculty, administrators, and staff to integrate music into the broader curriculum and school culture.
• Participate in school-wide initiatives, events, and festivals, contributing to the school community's overall sense of culture and spirit.
• Stay up-to-date with best practices in music education and Waldorf music pedagogy, attending workshops, conferences, and other opportunities for professional growth.
• Reflect on and improve teaching practices through self-evaluation, peer feedback, and collaboration with colleagues.
• Engage in an ongoing study of music, Waldorf education, and the developmental stages of children to continually enrich the music program.
• Complete report writing, grading, and letters of recommendation.
• Inform the Grades Director of any concerns regarding individual students.
• Share responsibility for ordering, inventorying, and storing pedagogical materials related to the program.
• Offer music activities and parent evenings.
• Report any health or safety concerns regarding classrooms or equipment to the school’s Facilities Manager.
• Attend Department and Faculty meetings.
• Participates in assigned recess supervision. 

• A Bachelor's degree or certification in music education, music performance, or a related field.
• Previous experience teaching music, preferably in a Waldorf or holistic educational setting.
• Proficiency in a variety of musical instruments (e.g., piano, strings, percussion, or others), and the ability to teach basic instrumental skills.
• Strong knowledge of music theory, vocal techniques, and music history.
• Ability to work with students across a wide range of developmental stages, from early childhood to adolescence.
• An understanding of Waldorf education and its principles, with the ability to integrate those principles into music instruction.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with students, parents, and colleagues.
• A passion for music and a commitment to nurturing a love of music in students.
• Classroom management and motivational strategies. 
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work with neuro-diverse students.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• High level of personal initiative.
• A commitment to ongoing professional growth, particularly in Waldorf education.
• Basic computer literacy and organizational skills.
• First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).

About Austin Waldorf School

AWS is an established school community with a projected enrollment of around 390 students in pre-kindergarten-12 (85+ students in the high school) for the 2024/2025 school year. AWS is fully accredited by the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA) and the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS). Community events, such as festivals, concerts, plays, athletics, and adult education classes, create an atmosphere of cultural enrichment. Our picturesque 30-acre campus consists of four kindergartens, eight-grade school classrooms, library, handwork room, nine-classroom high school including a state-of-the-art science lab, performing arts center, gymnasium, eurythmy hall, art studio, school store, gardens, and playgrounds. Austin is a vibrant city set in the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country. It’s a beautiful place to live with many offerings of a much larger city while providing quick access to lovely greenspace. The Austin Waldorf School is a non-profit organization that welcomes applicants of any religion, race, color, sexual orientation, gender, national or ethnic origin

Connections working at Austin Waldorf School