New York, New York, Friends Seminary educates students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, adhering to the values of the Religious Society of Friends. We strive to build a diverse school where students exercise their curiosity and imagination as they develop as scholars, artists and athletes. In a community that cultivates the practices of keen observation, unhurried reflection, critical thinking, and coherent expression, we listen for the single voice as we seek unity. The disciplines of silence, study, and service provide the matrix for growth: silence opens us to change; study helps us to know the world; service challenges us to put our values into practice. At Friends Seminary, education is rooted in the Quaker belief in the Inner Light – that of God in every person. Guided by the testimonies of integrity, peace, equality, and simplicity, we prepare students to engage in the world that is and to help bring about a world that ought to be.

Founded in 1786, Friends Seminary, the oldest continually operating coeducational, independent Quaker school in New York City, seeks applications for a part-time Middle School Strings Music Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year, beginning in December 2026. The individual in this role will be responsible for collaborating with faculty and staff to teach in support of the School’s mission, curricular goals, and students. The ideal candidate possesses creative problem-solving skills, a sense of humor, enthusiasm for innovative curriculum, a positive attitude toward growth, a gentle curiosity, an ability to observe and express without judgment, and strong interpersonal skills that allow one to cooperate and collaborate effectively with others.

Duties & Responsibilities

Conducting and co-teaching the MS Chamber Orchestra (grades 7 and 8) and teaching beginning violin classes in grades 5 and 6.

Collaborate with departmental colleagues on designing and implementing an evolving instrumental music program.

Plan and implement motivating lessons for students that reflect knowledge of the curriculum, students’ interests and abilities, and students’ social and emotional needs.

Incorporate music teaching technology into the student learning experience.

Demonstrate a passion for lifelong learning on a daily basis.

Collaborate with colleagues across and within disciplines and divisions with respect to further developing curriculum and designing interdisciplinary projects/units of study, content, pedagogy, use of appropriate technology resources, and the social and emotional needs of middle school students.

Prepare student reports that include narrative descriptions of students' achievements and needs.

Actively engage in anti-bias and equity work, understanding both culturally responsive pedagogy and the social justice dimensions of education.

Communicate respectfully with families and demonstrate sensitivity to cultures, values, configurations, and beliefs.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

Knowledge of child development, best practices, and current trends in education specifically related to middle school-aged children and the instrumental music discipline.

Passion for and expertise in string instruments across a variety of genres.

Competency and expertise in violin, viola, and possibly cello.

Demonstrated classroom management skills, including allocating time, space, and materials for the most effective learning.

A proven commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all learners.

An appreciation for multiple learning styles and the ability to meet students where they are.

Creativity and innovation in both curriculum and instruction.

Versatility and flexibility both within and outside of the classroom, encouraging students to think creatively, work collaboratively, embrace failure, and communicate effectively with others.

Outstanding interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.

Skill in creating a learning environment that is challenging, motivating, and developmentally appropriate.

Required Experience

3+ years of experience preferred.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required; a master's degree is preferred.

Compensation

This is a part-time position with an annual salary range of $20,000-$25,000 depending on experience. The teacher will provide nine lessons over a 10-day cycle, in addition to an annual concert and dress rehearsal. Payments are issued on the 15th of every month.

To apply, please submit the following:

Completed Friends Seminary employment application

Cover letter

Resume

Contact information for three professional references

A statement of educational philosophy

When submitting your materials, kindly be sure to reference your first and last name, the position for which you are applying, and where you heard about the position in the subject line. i.e. [last name], [first name] - MS Music Teacher (Strings) (PT) - Friends Seminary website . You will receive a confirmation email when you submit your application. No phone calls, please.

Submit all materials to: [email protected]

Friends Seminary actively promotes diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism in all its programs and operations, including admissions, financial aid, hiring, and all facets of the educational experience. To form a community which strives to reflect the world’s diversity, we do not discriminate on the basis of race or color, religion, nationality, ethnicity, economic background, physical ability, sex, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation. Friends Seminary is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of color and members of other underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. We urge all applicants to identify and express their individuality and the ways in which they might enrich and diversify the School community.

Moreover, all successful applicants, whether for a faculty or administrative staff post, must demonstrate an ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism in their professional lives. Applicants for a faculty position should highlight ways their curriculum, pedagogy, and classroom culture may advance these goals. Applicants for an administrative staff position should highlight ways they seek to promote these goals in their office work, programming, or operational endeavors.