Careers

Position Details

General Summary

McDonogh School is posting an anticipated opening in the Upper School Science Department for the 2026-2027 school year.

McDonogh School seeks a dynamic and versatile music educator for the Upper School Concert Band, Jazz Band, and Digital Music Technology courses. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in instrumental music education, ensemble direction, and contemporary music production, inspiring students across traditional and digital music disciplines. This teacher will work with students in grades 9-12, fostering musical excellence, creativity, and collaboration through performance-based learning and innovative technology integration.

Compensation for this position will generally be offered in the range of $55,000 - $70,000. Individual offers will be specific, and based on education, experience, and benchmarking parameters.

Essential Functions

• Teaching and Curriculum Development
• Direct and conduct Upper School Concert Band and Jazz Band, preparing students for performances, concerts, and potential competitions or festivals
• Inspire, challenge, and encourage students in the study of instrumental music across diverse genres, styles, and historical periods
• Teach Digital Music Technology courses, including music production, recording, composition, arranging, and sound design using industry-standard software (such as Soundtrap) and equipment
• Value, promote, and cultivate the importance of effort and grit in students' musical achievement; celebrate incremental growth alongside achievement
• Foster students' development of musicianship skills, including technique, music theory, improvisation, and ensemble performance
• Guide students in developing AI literacy, including understanding ethical use of AI tools in writing and research, and cultivating critical thinking about AI-generated content
• Build and maintain a comprehensive rehearsal schedule that balances sectional work, full ensemble rehearsals, and performance preparation
• Integrate music technology into traditional ensemble settings when appropriate
• Performance and Program Management
• Plan and execute multiple concerts and performances throughout the academic year including logistics like venue preparation, program design, and event promotion
• Organize and manage the band room, instrument inventory, music library, and digital music technology equipment
• Communicate performance schedules, expectations, and repertoire information to students and families
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Community Engagement
• Work collaboratively with other music faculty and arts colleagues to create integrated arts experiences
• Participate actively in the broader McDonogh community through school activities, events, and initiatives both within and outside the Arts department
• Demonstrate willingness to explore and implement extracurricular ensemble opportunities such as pep band, marching band, or performances at school events
• Support school-wide initiatives and policies, including the "Fully Here" digital device policy
• Student Support and Mentorship
• Serve as an advisor to a small group of students, providing academic guidance, social-emotional support, and mentorship through the Upper School advisory program
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress, performance expectations, and musical growth
• Professional Growth and School Contributions
• Participate in professional development opportunities to continually grow as an educator, including conferences, workshops, masterclasses, and departmental collaboration
• Maintain an active connection to the professional music community and current trends in music education and technology
• Respond flexibly to the evolving needs of the School, which may include service learning coordination, athletics coaching, club advising, assigned supervision duties, and other responsibilities as determined by the Head of the Upper School

Recommended Employment Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Music Education, Music Performance, Music Technology, or related field (required). Master's degree in Music Education, Conducting, Music Performance, or related field (preferred).

Additional Experience

• Demonstrated expertise in both concert band and jazz band direction
• Experience teaching music production, recording, or music technology courses (required)
• Prior experience directing instrumental ensembles (required) at the secondary level (preferred)
• Proficiency with digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Ableton and FL Studio or similar platforms
• Strong instrumental performance background with expertise on multiple instruments (required)

Additional Requirements

• A valid driver's license may be required for transporting instruments or equipment
• Ability to differentiate instruction to meet diverse learning needs and musical abilities
• Comfort with audio/visual technology, sound systems, and recording equipment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Knowledge of instrument maintenance and repair basics
• Must be able to comply with background checks, including fingerprints, as required by the agency and / or state regulations
• Must possess personal qualifications such as flexibility, patience, good personal hygiene, and physical and mental health that do not interfere with responsibilities
• Proficiency with music notation software
• Strong organizational and administrative skills for managing multiple ensembles and programs
• Willingness to attend evening and weekend performances and events, and participate in co-curricular activities (athletics, clubs, or other programs)

Working Conditions

Evening and weekend hours are required for performances, concerts, and special events. Physical demands include sitting, standing, walking, extended periods of standing while conducting, and regular lifting or carrying of instruments, music stands, equipment, and sound reinforcement gear. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. This position requires the ability to move around campus, including the band room, practice spaces, performance venues, and digital music labs throughout the day.