Careers
Work With Us
DCYOP is the region’s leading ensemble-based music education program. Each year, DCYOP offers group lessons, ensemble training, and performance opportunities for 700+ students ages 4.5 to 18. DCYOP is proud to be an inclusive organization and values the diversity of its student body and staff. DCYOP’s students represent 200 different schools, 100 unique ZIP codes, and a range of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.
We seek team members who have a passion for music education and performance, are committed to transforming lives of youth through music, and to making that a reality for every student who joins our program.
Who We Are
DCYOP’s artistic excellence has been recognized at local, national, and international levels. Achievements include: the first youth orchestra to perform at the Kennedy Center, tours of 14 countries, played for U.S. presidents and diplomats, and performed with esteemed musicians like Yo-Yo Ma and Gustavo Dudamel. Honors include the National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award (known as the Coming Up Taller awards) and the Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Arts Education.
What We Value
Passion for music education
We believe music transforms lives.
Commitment to access
We serve students of all backgrounds. Striving for equity is at our foundation.
Flexibility & humor
Working with 700 kids takes adaptability and the ability to laugh with your team.
Team orientation
From faculty to admin to leadership — we work best when we work together.
Teach music. Transform lives.
DCYOP is proud to be an inclusive organization. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our commitment to music and youth.
Ready to join the team?
Contact Us:
Open Positions
We post new opportunities here as they become available. Check back often, or send us an open application below.
Teaching Artist
Our Teaching Artists teach beginner group lessons and/or coach sectional rehearsals at varied levels in support of the DCYOP ensembles and curriculum. All lessons and rehearsals are on Saturdays. There are no openings for Teaching Artists currently, but we encourage you to submit a resume and cover letter to jobs@dcyop.org as we are always anticipating upcoming needs for teachers and substitutes.
Responsibilities
- Teach group instrumental lessons and/or sectional rehearsals
- Create lessons that communicate the musical goals and benchmarks of the DCYOP curriculum
- Coordinate and cooperate with Program Manager in keeping track of DCYOP students’ attendance and musical progress
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Bachelor and/or Master of Music (preferred)
- Passion for music education and performance
- Exemplary instrumental teaching ability (group lesson experience a plus)
- Experience leading sectional rehearsals
- Ability to inspire students and work as part of a team
- Ability to adapt, be flexible, and have a sense of humor
Pay starts at $60/hour for teaching 1-5 hours per week (Saturdays, 9am-3pm). Background check required.
Teaching artists are contracted positions. Contracts are renewed on an annual basis.
Don’t see the right fit? Send an open application.
We’re always growing. If you’re passionate about music education and want to be considered for future roles — staff, administrative, or artistic — we’d love to hear from you. Send your resume and a note about your interests to frontdesk@dcyop.org.