Job Title: Musical Artist-in-Residence

Department: Children + Families and Center for Jewish Living

FLSA Status: Exempt

Start date: Summer or Fall 2024

Overview:

We seek a passionate and dedicated Musical Artist-in-Residence to join our team and inspire people of all ages in Jewish music's rich and diverse traditions. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of Jewish musical heritage, a strong background in music education, and the ability to create an engaging and inclusive experience for community participants of all ages. The Musical Artist-in-Residence will lead groups of all sizes in music and ritual to utilize Jewish music as a through-line and point of connection throughout all areas of the JCC.

Responsibilities:

Song Leader + Performer:

• Lead groups of all sizes in music and ritual, with the goal of utilizing Jewish music as a through-line and point of connection throughout all areas of the JCC.
• Provide musical direction and music education for the Saul and Carole Zabar Nursery School. Introduce groups of children, ages 2-5, to the world of Jewish music using songs, simple instruments, and a variety of musical pedagogies, resources, and experiences.
• Organize and facilitate opportunities for diverse groups to gather around Jewish music, including performances and community events.
• Collaborate with other educators and community organizations to create meaningful experiences for the diverse constituency of the JCC.
• Act as an integral member of our camp staff and work to infuse music and Jewish culture into the MMJCCM Camp Programs. Under the direction of the Director of Camp, the Song Leader will help create camp community, pride, and spirit through song and performance. This includes leading a weekly community Shabbat gathering.

Curriculum Development:

• Design and develop a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of Jewish music, including traditional melodies, liturgical music, folk songs, Israeli classics, and contemporary expressions.
• Utilize Jewish Music as a through-line and point of connection throughout all areas of the JCC. Design a curriculum that crosses ages and stages of life while using the same tunes for familiarity.
• Harness Israeli music as an on-ramp to a lifelong relationship with Israel.
• Create a JCC songbook and Spotify playlist, giving our community access to our JCC repertoire at home.
• Co-create musical pieces in partnership with the community and staff

Teaching + Performing:

• Conduct engaging and dynamic musical experiences for students of all ages, fostering and encouraging a love for Jewish music.
• Utilize a variety of teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and abilities.
• Incorporate theoretical and practical elements into lessons, including music theory, vocal training, and instrumental instruction.
• Teach and inspire across many departments - camp, nursery school, children + families classes, Modern Agers, Center for Special Needs, Shabbat and holiday celebrations, etc.
• Partner with JCC content directors to create a program that blends performance, education, and community engagement.
• Organize both intimate and large-scale events that celebrate the diversity of Jewish culture through innovative musical experiences.

Inclusive Environment:

• Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment where students of all backgrounds feel valued and respected.
• Weave together existing, disparate music programs alongside new initiatives elevating Jewish song and music at every age and stage within the JCC.
• Emphasize the universal and unifying aspects of Jewish music while celebrating the diversity within the Jewish musical heritage.

Professional Development:

• Stay current with developments in music education, Jewish music scholarship, and relevant pedagogical approaches.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance teaching skills and expand knowledge of Jewish music.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Music Education or a related field.
• Proficiency in Jewish music traditions and a strong understanding of their cultural context.
• Understanding of Hebrew and ability to lead/teach rituals for meals, Shabbat, holidays, and communal singing. Experience and skill in leading Jewish worship services are a plus
• At least 5 years experience in music education, focusing on teaching diverse musical styles.
• Ability to play and teach one or more musical instruments and/or vocal proficiency.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive and culturally sensitive learning environment.
• Full-time position, which will include weekends and some evenings

If you are passionate about preserving and passing on the rich traditions of Jewish music while inspiring the next generation of musicians, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Salary range: Minimum $80,000- Maximum $90,000