Children’s Band Instructors - Woodwind
/ORGANIZATION:
Vancouver Extracurricular Music Society
DEADLINE:
January 9, 2026
ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION:
VEMS is a non-profit Society with the mission to bring more music to more children. Please see vems.ca/about
WEBSITE:
http://vems.ca
JOB DESCRIPTION:
VEMS is seeking woodwind-playing Band Instructors for the remainder of the 2026 school year. Band sessions are held once per week on Sunday nights from 6 to 8 PM. Each band has one brass and one wind instrument specialist. There are 19 Sunday sessions from January 18 to June 14, 2026.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Punctual
Run weekly rehearsals with another instructor
Take attendance and follow up with parents on absences
Plan and program concerts/demonstrations for parents
Liaise with the Parent Coordinator/Volunteer and VEMS management
Communicate via email to parents regarding performances
Follow all public health and safety guidelines
Ensure children are safe, particularly at the end of rehearsal
QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in music or in the process of acquiring one
Must be able to read music
Must be able to demonstrate/play the instruments in their area (see https://www.vems.ca/2025/06/30/beginner-band-faqs/)
Criminal background check (VEMS staff will provide information on how to obtain)
Enjoys working with elementary-aged children
Instrument proficiency in some or all of flute, clarinet, tenor saxophone
Familiar with age- and skill-appropriate books and repertoire (e.g., Band Essentials)
Able to teach rhythm, pitch, scales, and notation to young students
Ensemble skills: teaching students how to play together, including listening, blending, and following a conductor
Tone production: helping students develop a clear and pleasing tone through proper breath support, embouchure, and technique
Technique: teaching proper hand and finger positioning, articulation, and other instrumental techniques
Instrument maintenance: teaching basic care and maintenance of instruments
Performance preparation
Bonus: ability to write and/or arrange music for a group’s abilities
HOW TO APPLY:
Please direct all inquiries to Robert Ford at president@vems.ca. Include your musical resume and contact information.
REMUNERATION:
$160 per 2-hour rehearsal
