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Chaminade College Preparatory seeks a dynamic, innovative, and engaging DIRECTOR OF CHORAL PROGRAMS with great organization, management, and interpersonal skills to direct the choirs at our high school campus (grades 9-12) in West Hills, California. This is a part-time position (0.6 FTE).
The Successful Candidate
- Has extensive experience of leading a range of choral ensembles and working with singers to develop both musicianship and technique, and deepen their understanding of music theory and history related to the music being performed.
- Is a creative problem solver with the skills and experience to shape and develop the existing program to ensure it remains distinctive, engaging, and highly successful.
- Has proven experience of integrating contemporary skills into music education to enable students to flourish in a diverse range of academic, professional, and cultural contexts.
- Knows how to apply the principles of backward design and implement learning that enables all students to succeed and reach their full potential.
Key Responsibilities
- Directs the large ensemble, Concert Choir, and the smaller ensembles (A cappella, liturgical, and jazz choirs). At present, the direction and instruction of choir classes takes place before, during, and after the traditional school day (Jazz Choir is an early morning class, Chorus traditionally takes place within the school day, and Concert Choir is an after-school class – extracurricular choirs and the liturgical choir rehearse after school).
- Presents a variety of music, including but not limited to: cultural, Broadway, classical, folk songs, spirituals, jazz, pop, etc.
- Prepares the ensembles for two main concerts (Winter / Spring) with optional showcases for seniors or smaller ensembles, collaborating with the directors of other performing arts programs to ensure the effective use of facilities and resources.
- Supports the development of strong student leadership teams that consist of music leadership (section leaders, student directors) and administrative leadership (president/vp, librarian, wellness, etc).
- Coordinates accompanist schedule for rehearsal.
- Oversee the planning of choral festivals and competitions (past choral trips have included Seattle, Disney, San Diego, Universal, and Italy).
- Implements and continues to develop curriculum for the Chorus class(es) which develop and strengthen the basics of singing both independently and in groups (Although the membership of some ensembles is based on musical ability, classes are open to all students and the intent is to meet each singer where they are. This often results in one-on-one and small group ensembles).
- Under the supervision of the vice principals, teaches a standards-based curriculum. In a timely manner, plans lessons; provides feedback and grades on assignments; maintains grades, attendance, and other school records; and communicates with students, their families, and counselors when students need support.
- Collaborates with department members to evaluate, monitor, and update curriculum, assessment, and pacing guides under the guidance of the Department Chair.
- Ensures that instructional strategies respect students’ diverse social identities while corresponding to Catholic Marianist values and the mission of the school.
- Integrates technology by using Blackboard Learning Management System (LMS) (can provide training), EdTech Apps, such as Nearpod, Formative, AP Classroom, and other collaborative and productivity tools (*Note: All students use a school-issued Lenovo Thinkpad tablet daily)
- Is knowledgeable about new trends and developments in educational and music theory, instructional strategies, and assessment.
- Participates in and attends campus life events, including supervision, lunch activities, liturgies, assemblies, etc.
Qualifications
- Has a passion for teaching music and voice at the secondary level and has extensive knowledge and experience working with choral ensembles, preferably at High School level or higher (prior experience in youth liturgical music or music ministry would be beneficial).
- A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in the subject discipline is required. A teaching credential and/or a Master’s degree in the subject discipline is preferred. Please note: applicants must be able to demonstrate their ability to read music in a professional capacity and (at minimum) play vocal parts on piano with accuracy and expertise, and play piano-led vocal warm-ups.
- Prior teaching experience, especially in a Catholic educational setting, is preferred; however, relevant experience in the field is also strongly considered.
- Experience planning choir tours is preferred (either having worked with WorldStrides, Heritage, Forum, or independently planning); experience which demonstrates relevant skills is also strongly considered.
- Is comfortable delivering instruction on campus, via remote learning, and/or in a hybrid model.
- Wants to work in a setting committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion of all school stakeholders.
- Wants to work in a setting committed to balancing teaching/learning, health, and well-being of all stakeholders.
Deadline for Submission of Applications
Applications are being accepted immediately. This position is open until filled.
Salary and Benefits
This is a salaried/exempt from overtime position. Chaminade faculty are paid on a salary schedule based on degrees and years of prior teaching experience. A full-time salary at hire is expected to be $ 59,000 – $ 89,000 annually. Part-time positions are prorated accordingly.
Application Process
Interested applicants may apply online through our employment webpage at: www.chaminade.org/employment.
In addition, candidates invited to interview are encouraged to bring or share a curated portfolio that reflects their knowledge of Choral Music (Singing)/Choral Singing instruction, a written sample lesson they have taught or would teach, and if available, samples of lessons, assignments, student work, assessment criteria. Portfolios may be shared digitally or via hard copy.
About Chaminade
Chaminade is an independent co-educational Catholic school in the Marianist tradition serving a diverse student body in grades 6-12 across two beautiful campuses in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles. We are a mission-centered community with an unwavering commitment to growing one’s faith, serving others, and ensuring the success and well-being of every student and employee. Chaminade sets the standard for Catholic college preparatory excellence with a rigorous, relevant, and innovative academic curriculum and extensive extracurricular offerings.
Our Mission:
We inspire young people to love, learn, and lead through our Catholic and Marianist traditions of a living faith, academic excellence, and moral responsibility.
Our Vision:
Chaminade College Preparatory graduates are prepared, inspired, and equipped to:
- Share God’s love by caring for others and seeking justice and peace.
- Learn, adapt, and grow with the world around them.
- Become servant leaders and positive contributors to society.
The Characteristics of Marianist Education
Chaminade’s mission and culture are deeply rooted in the five Characteristics of Marianist Education which are:
- Educating for Formation in Faith
- Providing an Integral Quality Education
- Educating in Family Spirit
- Educating for Service, Justice, and Peace and the Integrity of Creation
- Educating for Adaptation and Change
Chaminade’s Commitment to Diversity
Chaminade College Preparatory is committed to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion and the value that a rich and diverse community brings to our school. Our employee culture is deeply rooted in our Catholic faith and the five Characteristics of Marianist Education. Our Catholic Marianist tradition is lived on our campuses every day, and is evident in our Chaminade Family Spirit where each of our faculty and staff is valued for their unique and varied gifts and talents. Chaminade’s faculty, staff, and administration come from all faiths, ethnicities, races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds and we are stronger for it.
For more information about Chaminade, visit our website at: www.chaminade.org
Equal Employment Opportunity
Chaminade College Preparatory is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for employment are considered without regard to race, color, national origin or ancestry, gender, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, or genetic information, or other basis protected by law for employment in a Catholic school. Applicants who need an accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment and hiring process should contact the human resources department in order to discuss reasonable accommodation.
Requirements
See above for requirements.
Wage Range
The rate of pay offered to the selected candidate is based on internal pay policy and budget. New hires are commonly paid at the minimum of the wage range or within the lower part of the range. We consider a number of factors when making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience, training and other department needs.