Piano Instructor
Merit School of Music seeks a qualified piano instructor to teach group classes within our Instrumental and Vocal Music Program beginning in late February. Programming takes place at Merit’s Near North branch in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood between the hours of 4 pm and 7 pm, weekdays and on Saturdays between 8 am and 1 pm. The position may also expand to include private lessons on-site at Merit or at one of Merit’s off-site partners.
Organizational Overview
Merit School of Music is a community music school located in Chicago’s West Loop. Our primary goals are to help young people transform their lives and experience personal growth through music by providing access to sustained participation. For more than 40 years, we have been home to a diverse community of talented young musicians and have served as a springboard for them to achieve their full musical and personal potential. Our 125 passionate and experienced teaching artists provide access to high-quality music education, engaging over 3,000 students annually at our downtown location and in area schools and community centers.
Our students, who reflect the socioeconomic and ethnic diversity of Chicago, have the rare opportunity to learn together, dream together, teach each other, and broaden their horizons as they build inspiring lives through music. Merit develops musicians and equips young people with the tools they need to excel in life; virtually 100 percent of our graduates go on to conservatories or colleges.
Merit School of Music is committed to building a world where historically underrepresented groups have access to quality music education. Simultaneously, Merit is working to become an organization that truly reflects the city's demographics and the students we serve. Merit is dedicated to being an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and anti-racist organization and continually examining our efforts in this area.
Reporting Relationship
The Piano Teacher reports to the Piano, Voice, and Guitar Program Director.
Essential Duties
Responsibilities of the Piano Teacher include, but are not limited to:
• Provide high-quality piano instruction aligned with Merit’s curriculum, teaching philosophy, mission, and values
• Support individual student growth by assessing needs, setting goals, and adapting instruction accordingly
• Collaborate with piano faculty and Program staff to support student placement, progress, and pathways
• Share recommendations with Merit staff regarding additional programs or learning opportunities for students
• Participate in faculty, department, and professional development meetings as scheduled
• Accurately record student attendance for each lesson, class, or rehearsal
• Arrange approved substitutes for planned absences and communicate changes in a timely manner
• Maintain timely, professional communication with students, families, and Merit staff
• Contribute to recruitment and retention efforts by representing Merit positively within the studio and community
• Perform other related duties as assigned
Personal Skills, Attributes, & Qualifications
• Demonstrated experience teaching piano to elementary through high school–aged students across a range of skill levels
• Strong musicianship and technical proficiency on the instrument
• Effective classroom and studio management skills
• Commitment to professional standards, including punctuality, preparedness, responsiveness, and collaboration
• Ability to engage respectfully and constructively with students, families, and colleagues
• Alignment with Merit’s values, including a belief in dignity-centered, student-focused teaching practices
• Bachelor’s degree in Music or equivalent professional experience
Schedule
Thursdays
February 26 – May 7, 2026
5:00-5:55 pm; 6:00-6:55 pm
Saturdays
February 28 – May 9, 2026
10:00-10:55 am; 11:00-11:55 am
*Merit takes breaks for major holidays throughout the year, and generally follows the CPS calendar. A full calendar will be provided.
Classes for the summer and upcoming semesters will be assigned after the initial teaching assignments are made.
Compensation and Application
• Hourly base rates are calculated using a proprietary method that considers years of experience, recruitment/retention skills, studio size, education, and established success as a teacher
o Base rates range from $40 to $80 per hour for private lessons, with an additional $2.00 per hour added to the base rate for group classes
o Large ensembles pay 1.5x the group class rate
o Full-time faculty (780 annual teaching hours) qualify for insurance benefits. 401K eligibility begins at 500 annual teaching hours.
To apply, please upload your resume detailing your relevant experience and qualifications for this role using this link. Applications will be accepted through January 16, 2026. Materials should be compatible with Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat PDF. Applicants will not receive confirmation of receipt of their materials. Further guidance and updates on the hiring process will be sent via email, and interviews will be scheduled for finalists.
ALAANA/BIPOC people, trans, and gender-nonconforming people, and women are encouraged to apply.
For more information about Merit School of Music, please visit www.meritmusic.org.
Merit School of Music is committed to enhancing the diversity of our musical community, recognizing that by providing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive learning environment for our students, we are preparing them for personal and professional success in an increasingly multicultural and global society. The Merit community recognizes its responsibility to create and sustain a learning and working environment where difference is valued and equity and inclusion are practiced.
