African Drum Specialist

ABOUT US

New York Edge is the largest provider of after-school and summer camp programs in New York City public schools. Each year, programs in academics, including STEM, the arts, sports and wellness, and college access, help 40,000 students develop leadership skills and succeed in school. Working parents count on our programs to provide safe and enriching environments for their children.

SUMMARY

New York Edge is seeking passionate and enthusiastic people to fill the role of African Drum Specialist. In this role, you will organize, lead, and promote interest in African Drumming while demonstrating creativity, interpersonal skills, and music theory knowledge. Similarly, classroom preparation for teaching and holding students to established standards and adapting the New York State Arts Learning Standards create an engaging and rewarding activity that encourages participation in New York Edge programs.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among the students for whom they are responsible. 

• Teach the art of playing the African  Drums, ensuring that each member is afforded an equal opportunity to learn to play.

• Have the ability to understand and carry out music theory with written instructions.

• Organize performance groups and direct their rehearsals. 

• Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects, and communicate those objectives to students. 

• Ascertain and interpret group interests, evaluate equipment and facilities, and adapt activities to meet the student’s needs. 

• Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities. 

• Explain principles, techniques, and safety procedures to participants in the activities and demonstrate the use of materials and equipment. 

• Evaluate activities to determine if they are producing desired results. 

• Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' needs and interests. 

• Progressive development of student skills leading to a final project 

REQUIRED SKILLS

• Knowledge of the principles and techniques of playing and instructing students in playing the African Drums

• Prior experience teaching and instructing youth preferred

• Must be able to follow a curriculum

• Must be responsible, reliable, and punctual!

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required.

• May be required to walk up and down stairs.

• May have to lift or move objects/materials as needed.

• Work is performed mostly within a New York City Public School but may be required to interact with the community at-large during trips or events.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or Equivalent required; some college preferred

• A minimum of one year of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required.

• A minimum of one year of teaching experience is required.

• Must have passion for New York Edge's mission and demonstrated interest in education and youth development.

• Candidates qualified to lead instruction in more than one activity are also preferred. 

WORK SCHEDULE

• 9-15 hours per week.

• Monday through Friday -- 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm

The African Drum Specialist will be required to report to the school building and interact with staff, students, parents, and school administration.

At the time of offer and acceptance, the job requires safety and security clearances through the Department of Education and Department of Health.

New York Edge is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer 

Disclaimer: The statements herein describe the general nature and level of work the employee performs in this position. These statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of a person in this position.