Addison Trail High School
Long Term Substitute Teacher- Music Director Orchestra
Daily Salary Rate: B.A. $ 350.20/ M.A. $376.47
Title: SUBSTITUTE TEACHER
Reports To: Department Chair/Assistant Principal
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