Lower and Middle School Strings and Music Teacher

Westtown School is seeking a part-time Lower and Middle School Strings and Music Teacher beginning August 2025. The successful candidate will join a team of experienced arts educators committed to developing each student's individual artistic voice. An artist-teacher with an interest in pedagogy, an understanding of art as a tool for learning and social change, and a commitment to creating art that asks and solicits big questions will thrive in our dynamic program.

Westtown School is an independent, Quaker co-educational, pre-K to 12 college preparatory day and boarding school located in suburban West Chester, PA, approximately 30 miles from Philadelphia. On a beautiful 600-acre campus, Westtown offers a program where our committed faculty and staff inspire and prepare our students to be stewards and leaders of a better world.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide progressive once-weekly small group music instruction and lead a once-weekly ensemble for Lower School students;
• Provide instruction for Middle School strings students in developing their musical skills through ensemble classes;
• Direct strings ensembles in concerts and performances during the school year;
• Teach one 7th-grade Music Elements course for non-performers;

• Work in close collaboration with the Lower, Middle, and Upper School music faculty to ensure coherence in the music program across the three divisions; 
• Support students in selecting and learning to play string instruments;
• Help students develop the essential skills of critical thinking, communication, and empathy;
• Support students’ social-emotional and identity development;
• Contribute to building and sustaining an inclusive community and a program that reflects diverse cultures and perspectives;
• Communicate effectively with all constituents – students, colleagues, administrators, and parents;
• Contribute to students’ development of Quaker values;
• Engage in decision-making aligned with the Quaker process in service to the school community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree; music education degree preferred;  
• 2+ years of relevant classroom teaching and conducting experience; 
• Advanced proficiency on either violin, viola, or cello preferred;
• Expertise and experience in introductory teaching of string instruments;
• Experience with and commitment to working with Lower and Middle School students, including understanding their developmental, social, and academic needs;
• Expertise and experience in preparing students for performance, including selection of appropriate music and building skills in playing as an ensemble; 
• Excellent speaking, writing, and listening skills;
• A demonstrated commitment to inclusive Quaker pedagogy based on cultural competence, commitment to social justice, and respect for all voices;
• A strong affinity for the mission of Westtown School and an appreciation for Quaker values and how these inform community processes (meeting structures, decision-making, student discipline, etc.) and interactions.

For additional information about Westtown School and to explore current career opportunities, please visit our website westtown.edu/careers. Interested applicants can apply online by submitting their resume, cover letter, and three professional references directly to the specific job posting on the faculty employment portal.