We are Hiring for the 26-27 School Year!
Join Our Teaching Team
PIANO LAB TEACHER, BEGINNER STUDENTS (AGES 6-12).
In Person | Logan Square, Chicago
About Red Cloud
Red Cloud Studio is building a better way for children to learn piano, and we are looking for thoughtful, skilled teachers to help us shape what comes next.
Our research-informed Red Cloud Piano Lab program blends individualized instruction, small-group learning, creativity, independent practice, and community. The goal is not simply to help children play songs. We help students become confident, capable, and independent musicians who know how to learn, create, and keep going when something feels challenging.
Based in Chicago, Red Cloud serves beginning students in first through 8th grade through a modern approach designed around how children actually learn. We believe exceptional beginning instruction can shape a child's relationship with music (and life) for years to come, and that excellent teachers are the heart of that work.
The Role
Red Cloud Studio is looking for a teacher who takes the craft of teaching seriously and wants to become exceptional at helping children learn.
This is not a performer-first role or a traditional private-lesson position. It is a structured, highly interactive teaching role for someone who understands how children ages 6–12 learn, focus, behave, and build confidence.
Our teachers lead students through the Red Cloud Piano Lab Method, a small-group model in which students may be working at different levels and on different activities within the same class. Teachers must be able to circulate, observe closely, give concise individual instruction, manage group dynamics, and keep the room calm, joyful, and productive.
Strong teaching skill is the foundation of this role. Candidates must also have the piano proficiency needed to demonstrate healthy technique and teach beginning musicianship accurately.
What You Will Do
Lead small-group piano classes for students ages 6–12.
Establish clear routines, warm boundaries, and a focused classroom culture.
Learn and consistently apply the Red Cloud Piano Lab Method and Curriculum.
Adjust instruction based on each student's age, readiness, and learning needs.
Teach foundational piano technique, reading, rhythm, musicianship, creativity, and independent practice skills.
Prepare students for recitals and other learning milestones.
Pilot new materials in the classroom and provide feedback to help refine and improve the Red Cloud Piano Lab Method curriculum over time.
Communicate student progress and practice guidance clearly to parents.
Maintain accurate attendance, progress notes, and student records.
Participate in training, observation, coaching, and ongoing teacher development.
What We Are Looking For
Meaningful experience teaching or leading groups of children ages 6–12.
Strong classroom leadership, including the ability to maintain attention, manage transitions, and redirect behavior calmly.
A genuine understanding of how children learn and the ability to explain skills in clear, manageable steps.
Solid piano proficiency and the ability to model beginner technique and repertoire accurately.
Reliability, punctuality, preparation, and consistent follow-through.
Warm, professional communication with children, parents, and colleagues.
Openness to feedback, observation, and a shared instructional method.
Availability to teach in person at least three days per week and commit to a consistent school-year schedule.
Availability for required recitals, trainings, and occasional studio events.
Preferred Experience
Degree, license, or coursework in elementary education, early childhood education, music education, child development, or a related field.
Experience teaching elementary general music, group piano, children's choir, ensemble classes, or after-school enrichment.
Training in Orff, Kodály, Suzuki, Dalcroze, Gordon Music Learning Theory, or another recognized music pedagogy.
Experience with early childhood music programs such as Kindermusik or Music Together.
Experience supporting children with different learning styles, behavioral needs, or developmental profiles.
Prior experience teaching beginning piano or foundational musicianship.
This Role Is a Strong Fit If You
You believe teaching is a professional craft, enjoy working with true beginners, can be warm and playful without losing leadership of the room, welcome feedback, and want a stable teaching community rather than temporary work between performances, tours, or auditions.
Compensation & Schedule
This is a part-time, W2 position starting at $38 per hour. Compensation also includes required recitals, trainings, and studio events as outlined above.
To Apply
Please submit your résumé and a brief note describing your experience teaching children in group settings to molly@redcloudchicago.com