Private Music Instructor (Oshkosh 20th Ave YMCA)

The Private Music Instructor provides individualized music instruction to students through one-on-one lessons in guitar, piano, and/or voice. This position is responsible for creating engaging and supportive learning experiences that help develop musical skills, build confidence, and foster an appreciation for music.

The ideal candidate has experience and proficiency in their area of instruction, enjoys working with students of varying ages and abilities, and can adapt lessons to meet individual learning styles, interests, and goals. Instructors are expected to create a positive learning environment that encourages musical growth, creativity, and a lifelong enjoyment of music.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

- Plan and provide individualized music lessons in guitar, piano, and/or voice.

- Assess students' current abilities and adapt instruction to meet their individual skill levels, interests, and learning goals.

- Develop lesson plans and select appropriate instructional materials, exercises, and repertoire.

- Teach fundamental musical concepts, including technique, rhythm, music reading, theory, and performance skills as appropriate to the student's instrument and experience level.

- Encourage consistent practice habits and provide students with guidance and resources to support their musical development outside of lessons.

- Create a positive, patient, and encouraging learning environment that promotes confidence and creativity.

- Provide constructive feedback and communicate student progress and areas for improvement.

- Maintain appropriate communication with students and parents/guardians regarding lesson expectations, progress, scheduling, and practice recommendations.

- Prepare and maintain instructional materials and ensure lesson spaces and equipment are ready for use.

- Maintain accurate lesson attendance and communicate cancellations, absences, and scheduling changes according to YMCA procedures.

- Provide a welcoming and professional experience for students and families.

- Follow all YMCA policies and procedures, including safety, supervision, and child-protection guidelines.

- Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and orientations.

- Perform other duties as assigned.

Schedule & Hours: This is a part-time, lesson-based position. Hours will vary depending on student registrations, lesson schedules, and instructor availability.

Instructors may teach one or more of the following: drums, guitar, piano, and voice. Scheduling will be coordinated with the Program Coordinator and based on student enrollment and mutually available lesson times.

The number of hours offered may increase or decrease depending on student enrollment and program demand. Availability during weekday afternoons, evenings, and/or weekends may be beneficial.

Qualifications

- Demonstrated proficiency in at least one area of instruction: drums, guitar, piano, or voice.

- Strong understanding of fundamental music concepts and instructional techniques within the area of expertise.

- Ability to communicate musical concepts effectively to students with varying levels of experience.

- Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

- Ability to work independently and manage individual lesson schedules.

- Dependable, patient, and enthusiastic about sharing music with others.

- Ability to create a supportive and encouraging learning environment.

Preferred:

- Formal music education, degree, or equivalent experience in the area of instruction.

- Experience working with children, youth, and/or adult learners.

- Familiarity with a variety of musical styles and teaching approaches.

- Previous experience teaching private music lessons or providing music instruction.

- CPR/AED and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification.