Upper School Music Production and Technology Instructor (Part-Time, Leave Replacement)

Riverdale Country School, a Pre-K through Grade 12 independent all-gender school in New York City, is dedicated to inspiring students to live meaningful and purpose-driven lives. The school achieves this by fostering a culture of academic excellence, critical thinking, and curiosity, supported by a diverse and inclusive community. Riverdale emphasizes both high challenge and high support in its approach to education, encouraging students to engage deeply in interdisciplinary learning, research, and experiential education, both inside and outside the classroom and beyond our campuses. This holistic approach aims to develop well-rounded individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.
At Riverdale, we strive to reflect the diversity of the New York metropolitan area in our students, faculty, and staff. We believe that a diverse and inclusive community enriches the educational experience and is integral to our mission. With a student body of approximately 1,300 students from 117 different zip codes, Riverdale is a vibrant community where 48% of our students identify as students of color. 
We seek to employ educators and leaders who bring a student-centered approach, passion for their work, a commitment to DEIB, and a desire to contribute to the growth and development of our entire school community.

Position Overview:

Riverdale Country School seeks a part-time (2-3 classes) Music Production and Technology teacher to serve as a leave replacement from December 2026 through June 2027. The ideal candidate demonstrates passion and ability in fostering musical growth in young people, and an appreciation for the art of recording music. The instructor will offer exercises and clinics, assist in compositional choices, and collaborate closely with students to elevate our Upper School Music Production program. 

 

Our website offers an overview of our Upper School Music curriculum. All full-time teachers participate in the life of the school community through advising, leading activities, service learning, and/or other co-curriculars. Riverdale is an inclusive community dedicated to creating a sense of belonging for all students and staff. Our hiring practices reflect this commitment, and we seek candidates eager to expand this work in the classroom, in the curriculum, and in the pedagogical principles of the department. 

 

Please include a cover letter with your application, addressing your philosophy and priorities as a Music educator.

Primary Responsibilities

• Teach the foundational elements of music production, such as integrating pre-recorded loops, MIDI sounds, and live recordings with proper microphone placement. This includes familiarity with a range of DAWs, including GarageBand, Logic, Ableton Live and FL Studio.

• Establish and maintain class expectations for a respectful and positive learning environment. Engage with students with empathy and professionalism.

• Communicate effectively with students, parents, and faculty regarding student progress.

• Provide timely, constructive feedback and grades, including narrative reports

• Participate in department, faculty, and other school meetings.

• Collaborate with colleagues across departments on interdisciplinary projects, school events, curriculum development, and co-curricular opportunities as available.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Music; a Master’s degree is preferred.

• Experience working as a recording musician or producer in a professional recording studio.

• Classroom or mentoring experience with adolescents.

• Effective classroom management skills and commitment to cultivating a focused, respectful, and productive learning environment.

• Basic knowledge of different types of microphones, recording techniques, interfaces, DAWs, as well as signal processing effects. 

• Strong musicianship skills, and a thorough understanding of music theory and compositional practices. 

• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills. 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively engage with students, parents, and colleagues.

• Demonstrated commitment to equitable and inclusive teaching practices.

• Demonstrated collegiality, collaboration, teamwork, and organization.

• Growth-oriented mindset and commitment to ongoing professional learning.

To apply for this position, please click on the red “Apply for this Job” button. Please submit a resume and cover letter.  If there are pronouns we should use in potential future communications, we invite you