About this role
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