Full job description
Afro-Cuban Percussion Teaching Artist (Grades 7–8)
School: Ole A. Thorp Academy – 6024 W Warwick Ave, Chicago, IL 60634
Contract Period: September 15, 2026 – February 13, 2026 (19 weeks, 107 sessions)
Grade Levels: 7th–8th Grade
Schedule:
Mon & Tues: 7th Grade Group 1 – 1:40 PM–2:30 PM
Wed & Fri: 7th Grade Group 2 – 1:40 PM–2:30 PM
Thurs & Fri: 8th Grade – 11:50 AM–12:50 PM
Compensation: $30–$50/hour, based on experience (also paid for 1 hr of planning time per week)
Position Summary
PCCCArts is hiring an Afro-Cuban Percussion Teaching Artist to lead an in-school residency for 7th–8th grade students at Ole A. Thorp Academy. This 13-week program (61 sessions total) introduces students to the rhythms, history, and cultural significance of Afro-Cuban percussion while developing technical skill, collaboration, and performance confidence.
The program will build on student interests and cultural connections, giving students opportunities to share their learning through scheduled showcases and school-wide events.
Key Responsibilities
Plan & deliver engaging, culturally responsive percussion lessons aligned with PCCCArts’ curriculum and school goals.
Teach fundamentals of Afro-Cuban percussion, including rhythm, technique, ensemble playing, and improvisation.
Incorporate cultural context, highlighting the history and traditions behind Afro-Cuban music.
Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners, including students with IEPs and English Language Learners.
Prepare students for informal in-class sharings and scheduled school showcases (10/17/25 , 11/21/25 & Chicago International Salsa Congress in Feb 14-16).
Maintain instruments & classroom setup to ensure a safe and productive learning environment.
Collaborate with school staff and PCCCArts program team to ensure smooth program delivery.
Attend required meetings, orientations, and planning check-ins.
Qualifications
Experience teaching percussion in a school, after-school, or community setting.
Strong knowledge of Afro-Cuban percussion traditions, instruments, and cultural history.
Proficiency with congas, bongos, timbales, hand percussion (panderos, guiros, maracas, shakers, shekere, rattles, etc.).
Ability to inspire and connect with middle school students through culturally affirming teaching.
Strong classroom management and organizational skills.
Commitment to equity in arts education and the mission of PCCCArts.
Bachelor’s degree in Music, Ethnomusicology, or related field preferred, but not required.
Compensation
Hourly Rate: $30–$50/hour, based on experience
Schedule: 61 teaching sessions over 13 weeks (follows CPS calendar)
Paid Planning: 1 hr per week
How to Apply
Please email the following to
[email protected] with the subject line:
[Afro-Cuban Percussion Teaching Artist Application – Your Name]
Resume
Sample lesson plan(s) related to percussion/music education
Portfolio or student work samples (if available)
Completed contractor application (provided after initial review)
Job Type: Contract
Pay: $30.00 - $40.00 per hour
Benefits:
Employee discount
Professional development assistance
Referral program
Work Location: In person
If you require alternative methods of application or screening
