• Jazz Composition Ensemble Instructor

    Macphail Center for Music (Minneapolis, MN)


    TITLE:                                Jazz Composers Ensemble Instructor

     

    REPORTS TO:                     Director of Instrumental & Voice Instruction

     

    DEPARTMENT:                     Instrumental & Voice Instruction

     

    STATUS:                              Exempt, Part Time

     

    COMPENSATION:                 $60.15/hour

     

    BENEFITS:                                 403b, Flexible Spending Account - Parking, Tuition Discounts, Professional                                                                 Development, MN Safe & Sick Time

    JOB SUMMARY

    The Jazz Composers Ensemble Instructor leads our Jazz Composers Ensemble , an innovative program designed for adult and teen musicians eager to deepen their understanding of jazz through both performance and composition. The Instructor takes a hands-on, collaborative approach, guiding participants through a 12-week journey that includes exploring and performing existing jazz repertoire, composing original works for the group, and rehearsing to refine these pieces for a culminating public performance.

     

    The Instructor also helps participants develop practical jazz ensemble skills, strengthen their ability to interpret and perform diverse repertoire with stylistic authenticity, and build confidence as improvisers and composers. Participants will gain experience in jazz harmony, melody writing, orchestration, and ensemble communication, all within a supportive, creative community. Under the Instructor’s leadership, the program will culminate in a performance showcasing new works created by the ensemble, reflecting each participant’s growth in musical expression and collaboration.

     

    RESPONSIBILITES and ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

    Instruction

    + Guide participants in developing original jazz compositions, incorporating elements such as form, harmony, melody, rhythm, and orchestration

    + Provide instruction on jazz compositional techniques, including arranging for small and medium ensembles, voicing, counterpoint, and stylistic considerations

    + Lead weekly rehearsals of the Jazz Composers Ensemble, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages experimentation and creativity

    + Conduct and coach an ensemble consisting of diverse instruments and varying skill levels

    + Introduce and analyze existing jazz repertoire and arrangements to illustrate compositional concepts and inspire new work

    + Prepare the ensemble for public performances, including programming and organizing original compositions and arrangements

    QUALIFICATIONS

    Education

    + Degree or Certification in Music, preferred

    Experience

    + Minimum of three years teaching experience in either a studio or ensemble setting, with a focus on jazz composition and/or performance, required

    Skills & Abilities

    + Strong leadership skills

    + Strong communication skills

    + Willingness to engage with external stakeholders to communicate about and promote the ensemble

     

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