Instructor of Woodwind

The Role

Key Outputs & Responsibilities:
The High School Music Department plays a major role in the life of the school and has an excellent reputation for the high quality of its performing. The Woodwind Instructor should continue to strengthen this reputation by thorough and effective rehearsal and tuition. They will need to instruct all woodwind instruments and run woodwind ensembles as required (including sourcing and/or arranging music), conduct the Symphonic Band (or equivalent group(s)), and assist at or direct Jazz Band, Concert Band and Symphony Orchestra rehearsals. There is a regular programme of concerts in which these groups participate, as well as concerts and competitions for individual performers.

At present, recorder is offered to pupils in L3 and above; pupils may then progress to flute and clarinet from L4, alto saxophone, oboe and tenoroon in L5, and the remaining woodwind instruments from L7. Pupils may be presented for National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher Music examinations, both as course awards and as free-standing units, in addition to ABRSM exams (in school) and Trinity exams (externally). The school owns a reasonable number of woodwind instruments, including a piccolo, flutes, oboes, clarinets in B flat and A, a bass clarinet, a tenoroon and two bassoons, but pupils are strongly encouraged to buy their own instruments as soon as possible.

The successful applicant should have an extensive knowledge of woodwind repertoire (both solo and ensemble) and should be an expert practitioner on at least one of the instruments taught. They should be able to produce suitable varied programmes for SQA examinations and will also be required to instruct theory of music as well as the other aspects of musicianship required for pupils to have a full understanding of their instrument, its practice and repertoire. The ability to work as part of a large and enthusiastic team is essential.

The Woodwind Instructor must promote and deliver appropriate taster session and courses of lessons to ensure the maintenance of a suitable number of woodwind players across the school to maintain a full programme of ensembles, bands, and orchestras as part of the Department’s Co-curricular work.

Main Responsibilities

To provide pupils with a rounded musical education through the medium of the pupils’ instrument and the range of string repertoire.
- To instruct 30-, 45- or 60-minute music lessons to pupils as requested by the Director of Music.
- To set an example of high standards to pupils by demonstrating woodwind playing in lessons and ensembles as appropriate.
- To provide a considered programme of study through weekly lessons tailored to each individual pupil that allows for continuity from lesson to lesson.
- To ensure that each pupil is aware of their practice requirements for the next lesson and is following those requirements.
- To prepare pupils to perform in concerts and in other public events.
- To prepare pupils for ABRSM, SQA and other exams as appropriate.
- To write reports to parents and guardians at least once a year on each pupil’s progress.
- To speak with the parents and guardians of all pupils at the annual Music Parents’ Evenings.

Please refer to the Job Description for further information.

**About the High School of Dundee**

At the High School of Dundee, our unique location in the heart of the city is a major strength, helping our pupils feel connected to the real world, creating fully rounded and grounded young people. The school currently has over 900 pupils, from age 3-18, who divide their time between our main city centre campus and our extensive sports facility, Mayfield.

Our approach is built on a profound belief that if young people are valued, supported known, and engaged in their learning, they can achieve amazing things. We have a long track record of outstanding exam results, which we owe to our rigorous approach, expertise built up over many years and a genuine desire to see our pupils realise their potential.

The timetabling of exciting new interdisciplinary STEM Innovation and Business Enterprise courses, in addition to computer science for all, has embedded Future Skills into our curriculum. In tandem, the development of partnerships with local businesses is allowing us to provide real world learning opportunities which further enriches our pupils’ learning.

A focus on the essential importance of Pastoral Care and on encouraging all pupils to make the most of the opportunities presented by our vibrant and extensive co-curriculum, helps create an environment in which the School’s Core Values are ever-present and where the desire to learn, support one another and grow is embraced by all.