Suzuki Violin, Viola and Cello Instructors

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Location:

Salt Lake City, Utah United States

Posting Date:

2026-06-18

Description:

About the Peterson School of Music

The Diana & Joel Peterson School of Music is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization based in Salt Lake City, Utah, dedicated to making exceptional music education accessible to all. In addition to being a top-tier training institution whose graduates regularly attend premier collegiate programs, the School remains deeply committed to equity and access.

Founded in 2009 by Eugene and Vera Watanabe (under the name Gifted Music School), the Peterson School of Music has grown into a leading institution through world-class faculty, comprehensive programming, and strong community support. Students consistently earn top honors in local and national competitions, and graduates matriculate to distinguished institutions such as The Juilliard School, Curtis Institute of Music, Stanford University, and universities across Utah.

Through its three core programs—Academy, Conservatory, and GRIT—the School nurtures not only musical excellence but also character, discipline, and leadership. We believe music education extends far beyond performance, equipping students with the skills and confidence to thrive in all areas of life.

Join Our Team – Position Summary

The Peterson School of Music seeks experienced Suzuki instructors to join its Violin, Viola, and Cello Area Faculty. The instructor will provide high-quality private instruction to students from beginner through intermediate levels, fostering technical proficiency, musical expression, and a lifelong appreciation for music.

This role includes teaching weekly lessons aligned with the academic calendar, developing individualized learning plans, and preparing students for performances, recitals, and assessments. The successful candidate will create a positive and supportive learning environment that promotes strong foundational technique, musicianship, artistic growth, and confidence in performance.

This is a part-time faculty position; compensation is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

 

Duties:

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Instruction & Student Development

  • Provide high-quality Suzuki instruction (we are seeking violin, viola and cello instructors) to students from beginner to advanced levels
  • Teach weekly lessons according to the academic calendar:
    • 15 instructional weeks during the fall semester
    • 17 instructional weeks during the spring semester
    • Approximately 6 lessons during the summer term

Program Participation & Evaluation

  • Present and lead studio recitals during the fall and spring semesters.
  • Prepare students for performances and events, including Pathway Concerts, Holiday Performances, Suzuki Concerts (if applicable), and other school-sponsored activities.
  • Prepare students for and, as assigned, adjudicate fall and spring jury examinations.
  • Participate in admissions auditions, placement evaluations, and other student assessment activities as requested.
  • Participate in Conservatory admissions and audition evaluations as requested.

Schedule & Availability Expectations

  • Availability to teach weekly private lessons during the academic year (Fall, Spring, and Summer Semesters)
  • Availability for evening and occasional weekend performances, juries, and special events
  • Participation in faculty meetings, professional development activities, and school events as assigned

Studio Development & Communication

  • Contribute to student recruitment efforts and maintain a healthy private studio through excellent teaching, retention, and community engagement.
  • Communicate regularly with students and families regarding progress and goals
  • Assist students in preparing and recording audition and competition materials
  • Manage lesson scheduling, attendance records, and related administrative tasks
  • Maintain timely and professional communication with families, faculty, and staff

Institutional Engagement

  • Hold membership in the Suzuki Association of Utah, as well as the Suzuki Association of the Americas.
  • Continued commitment to ongoing Suzuki teacher-training and other relevant professional development (PSM awards 50% annual scholarship towards such professional development)
  • Participate in departmental and school-wide activities
  • Contribute to a collaborative and supportive faculty environment
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisors

Qualifications:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in cello or Music Education degree with instrument emphasis (i.e., violin, viola, cello)
  • Has completed Every Child Can! and Suzuki Book 1-3 training
  • Has intention and desire to complete more, or all, levels
  • Demonstrated evidence of effective teaching for beginning through intermediate levels – minimum of 3 years of experience
  • Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Demonstrated English proficiency; Spanish or other language would be a strong asset.
  • Applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Advanced degrees in music (MM, MMA, or DMA) with significant experience in teaching their instrument (violin, viola, or cello)
  • Demonstrated success preparing students for auditions, competitions, juries, and public performances
  • Commitment to long-term faculty engagement and studio development
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
  • Commitment to inclusive and student-centered teaching practices
  • Experience working within a pre-college conservatory, community music school, or similar educational setting

Salary:

HIRING PROCESS Qualified candidates are invited to submit application materials to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Application materials should include: ● A resume or CV ● A cover letter, including a statement of interest in the position & professional strengths ● As part of the application process, candidates must submit teaching video samples totaling no more than 30 minutes. Applicants who are unable to provide video recordings may be asked to complete a live teaching demonstration arranged by PSM. ○ Teaching video guideline: teacher and student both fully visible in videos, with students’ entire body and both hands visible ● Three professional references, including name, title, organization, relationship to the candidate, phone number, and email addressThis is a part-time faculty position; compensation is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Contact:

Katherine Baird [email protected] 415-706-1922

https://petersonschoolofmusic.org/

(385) 222-7787

[email protected]