Ensemble Instructor, Director of Exeter Symphonia

Position Summary:

Starting in September of 2025 the Music Department seeks a dedicated and passionate string pedagogue to direct the PEA Symphonia, a foundation ensemble of approximately 25 string players at the intermediate level. We seek colleagues interested in being part of a collaborative faculty of more than 40 instructors who work with highly motivated high school students in a diverse, mostly residential community.

Schedule: Part-time exempt adjunct faculty, Academic Year. Rehearsals held Monday and Thursday evenings 6:45-8:15pm and concerts. Some other hours, including weekends upon arrangement.

Position Requirements

• In consultation with the Director of Orchestras, program pedagogically and developmentally appropriate repertoire for the ensemble. This repertoire should reflect the values expressed in the music department’s statement of purpose, acknowledging “the educational, artistic, and cultural importance of broadly representational, intentionally diverse choices in repertoire for both pedagogy and public performance.” Develop a rehearsal approach and goals based on the technical and musical levels of the students in the Symphonia. As needed, research, order, print and mark parts with bowings and fingerings.
• Participate in September placement auditions for incoming students for orchestras, chamber music and bands
• Direct rehearsals on Monday and Thursday evenings from 6:45pm – 8:15 pm.
• Conduct the Symphonia in orchestra concerts throughout the year as well as in any agreed-to additional performances planned by the department.
• Communicate regularly with students about rehearsal schedule, preparation and expectations.
• Communicate with music department staff and faculty about rehearsal space scheduling and set-ups.
• Use campus systems to report attendance, give student feedback through term-end written comments,
• Understand the Academy’s calendar and daily schedule and effectively use Academy systems for communication and course management.
• Communicate student issues or concerns with Department Chair and Student’s Advisor when necessary.
• Coach chamber music groups as interested/available.
• Willingness to enforce all school policies and rules governing student behavior.
• Collaborate with colleagues on faculty performances as interested/available
• Participate in occasional department meetings, PEA faculty meetings, and other forms of shared governance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional Requirements

Education:

• A BA or BM degree or equivalent experience is required, Master’s degree in music preferred.

Experience:

• 3+ years of successful private studio teaching experience.
• 3+ years of professional performing experience.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Excellent studio teaching ability. Ability to teach technique, repertoire, and musicianship to students
• Ability to create a positive and productive learning environment for high school age students.
• Respect for diversity of identities and experiences, an orientation toward equity and inclusion, and cultural competency in all aspects of Academy life.
• Demonstrated experience teaching from a musically diverse body of work, including artists from historically marginalized identities.
• Enthusiasm for working with adolescents.
• Commitment to working in and serving the needs of a diverse and inclusive community.

Background Requirements:

Criminal and driving background check.

Materials:

You are required to include a resume and cover letter with your application.

We encourage all interested applicants to review the course catalogue, which is available here:

https://exeter.edu/academics/