Bandmaster

As a key member of the Fine Arts Department, the Bandmaster plays a central role in shaping our cadets' musical and character development. Reporting to the Department Chair, the Bandmaster teaches three to four classes spanning from middle school to advanced high school, with a focus on both marching and concert bands. This position includes leading the band at a variety of campus and civic events, such as military parades, ceremonies, concerts, and community functions.

The Bandmaster also oversees the band’s involvement in school-wide and off-campus activities, including the potential formation and direction of specialized groups like a pep band or jazz ensemble. Collaboration is essential in this role, as the Bandmaster works closely with the Senior Army Instructor, Commandant of Cadets, Band Company TAC, Dean, and other leadership staff to guide the development and discipline of cadets in the Band Company—supporting their growth in areas such as promotions, housing, and Cadet Life.
Additionally, the Bandmaster partners with the Athletic Director, Director of Campus Operations, and Director of Facilities to coordinate the use of campus spaces for rehearsals, performances, and other Academy events.

We are looking for an experienced and inspiring educator who embraces our mission: to educate young men through a structured, relational approach that honors how boys learn best. At our Academy, we emphasize character development and virtue-based education as key drivers of academic success and personal growth. Our goal is to prepare students not only for college but for life, instilling in them the resilience, ethics, and leadership needed to thrive in a complex world.

If you're passionate about music, mentorship, and helping young men grow into capable, confident, and compassionate leaders, we invite you to join our team.

More about the Academy …
OUR FUNDAMENTALS
Army and Navy Academy is a military school for boys that is centered on a unique and singular mission: to forge virtue in young men for life. We feel that cultivating academic excellence and training exceptional scholar-athletes is the bare minimum of what a military boarding school should do. Our focus on virtue and character development makes us a unique opportunity for any young man looking to thrive in an increasingly challenging world.

We prioritize virtue in all that we do, a fact that is reflected in the environment of dignity and respect that pervades our campus. Our core values of Honor, Integrity, Gratitude, Compassion, Respect, and Responsibility don’t just guide our cadets: they are guidelines that help us all strive to uplift, serve, and inspire others. We teach our boys to live these values every day and in every interaction.
To learn more about us, please visit our website at https://armyandnavyacademy.org .

More about the position …
ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES:
The bandmaster uses non-teaching time for many varied administrative duties, to include class preparation (all classes are unique and require separate planning, often to include creating specific teaching materials, handouts, worksheets, and more), correspondence, program development, music library administration (to include music library cataloguing and upkeep, music examination and purchases, issuing and maintaining band binders for concert band and music flip folders for marching band – if members do not memorize their music), specific music arranging/composing for the band for specific events, music inventory administration (acquisition, repair, issue and supervision), concert and event planning (to include planning, coordinating with Academy staff as needed, set up, printing programs, decorating venue if needed, and tear down). S/he works closely with the Dean of Academics, the Commandant of Cadets, and the President of the Army and Navy Academy to ensure interdepartmental synergy of effort.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESULTS:
1. Sets goals congruent with prescribed curriculum by selecting appropriate long-range goals; setting instructional objectives related to long-range goals; setting specific learning objectives for cadets.
2. Plans for use of time, materials and resources by selecting and developing materials to meet the needs of the individual cadets; choosing a variety of teaching methods relevant to course objectives; planning for activities which reflect the scope and structure of the curriculum; using available resources and media; stimulating cadets by using appropriate materials and strategies; planning questioning strategies; having teaching materials and equipment readily available; selecting appropriate homework assignments.
3. Uses motivational techniques by reviewing and previewing lesson content; stating the objectives of the lesson when appropriate; communicating challenging, yet attainable, scholastic expectations to cadets; provides an environment in which the cadets feel a part of the class; encouraging innovative thinking; making material meaningful; providing opportunities for successful learning experiences.
4. Articulates the lesson by demonstrating correct written and oral communication; speaking clearly and at a level that cadets can comprehend; eliciting and responding to cadets’ questions before proceeding; using a variety of verbal and non-verbal techniques; giving clear explicit corrections; summarizing the content and mechanics of the lesson; providing structuring comments which clarify tasks; using terminology appropriate for grade level.
5. Uses various questioning and responding techniques by providing “think time” between questioning and asking for cadet responses; using appropriate measures to handle incorrect responses; presenting questions at the literal, inferential, and evaluative levels of comprehension; reinforcing correct responses; using probing techniques to encourage complete and correct answers; valuing and encouraging cadet contributions; engaging all cadets in questioning and dialogue.
6. Ensures cadets are on task by beginning class work promptly; reinforcing cadets who are spending time on task; minimizing transition time; following procedures which minimize “waiting time”; promoting active participation by all cadets.
7. Monitors cadet progress by asking questions to determine cadets’ understanding; presenting new material in sequential segments; checks for understanding in a variety of ways; giving written and oral comments in addition to points; providing opportunities for one-on–one conferences; checking cadets’ homework regularly.
8. Evaluates cadets’ performance by making the method of evaluation clear and purposeful; preparing tests which reflect course content; using a variety of testing strategies; returning tests and assignments as quickly as possible; using summative evaluation techniques.
9. Displays knowledge of curriculum and subject matter by showing awareness of the purpose of each objective within the lesson; keeping current with development in his/her professional field; using accurate and current information; identifying the skills that are essential for accomplishing the instructional objectives of the lesson; using appropriate examples for the material; stressing essential concepts and facts; demonstrating knowledge of the subject beyond the textbook; appearing with the material and is able to project this confidence to the cadets; relating specific topics to previously used material; maintaining a blending of the various topics through the lesson; answering cadet questions regarding the material and the use of the material; answering unexpected cadet questions relating to the topic or facilitates the discovery of the answer.
10. Varies instructional techniques to accommodate a variety of learning styles by using visual, auditory and kinesthetic instructional methods; using inductive and deductive teaching strategies; using individual, small-group and large-group activities; using knowledge of the class and individual cadets through observation and test results to design classroom and non-classroom educational experiences; using methods that take individual needs into account; providing assignments that give options for preferred learning styles; providing extra help and enrichment activities; providing hands on, concrete experiences when appropriate; encouraging peer interaction.
11. Sets and maintains appropriate standards for cadet behavior by promoting self-discipline by the cadets; managing disruptive behavior constructively; demonstrating fairness and consistency in handling problems; recognizing and handling discipline problems diagnostically; establishing and communicating clear standards for cadet behavior.
12. Establishes a tone and atmosphere that is conducive to learning by exhibiting positive relationships with cadets individually and in groups; maintaining a physically safe environment; maintaining a psychologically non-threatening environment; adapting to unanticipated questions and events; showing courtesy and tact; demonstrating a willingness and ability to be flexible; using positive reinforcement; involving cadets in decision making.
13. Organizes the classroom for effective instruction by scheduling learning time according to policy for specific subjects; directing activities in an orderly fashion; setting classroom procedures; monitoring the rest of the class while working with small groups or individuals; varying the room arrangement so that it is appropriate for the lesson; creating guidelines for cadets to follow when working in small groups.
14. Demonstrates sensitivity in relating to cadets by being readily available to cadets; communicating emphatically, accurately, and with understanding; respecting cadets as individuals; listening to cadets; using discretion in handling confidential information and difficult situations; promoting personal goal setting by the cadets; providing orientation for new cadets; acknowledging the right of others to hold differing views and values; giving constructive criticism; giving praise and encouragement when appropriate; making an effort to know each cadet as an individual; helping cadets develop efficient learning skills and work habits; creating a climate in which cadets display initiative and assume personal responsibility.
15. Assists in enforcing school policies and regulations by managing discipline problems in accordance with administrative regulations; monitoring cadet activities and insisting on decorum throughout the entire campus.
16. Establishes and maintains cooperative professional relationships by sharing and coordinating ideas, materials, and methods with colleagues; making use of school support services as needed; bringing school-related concerns to the attention of appropriate personnel; demonstrating an ability to manage professional relationships.
17. Takes an active role in the life of the school by participating in curriculum review and revision; assuming committee responsibilities; assuming necessary non-instructional responsibilities; showing support for school events.
18. Fulfills extra-curricular responsibilities by organizing and conducting regular practices and meetings; encouraging involvement of all team or club members; taking responsibility for the use of equipment and facilities; ensuring supervision of club and team members before, during, and after practices, meetings, and games; setting and enforcing appropriate standards and school policies; showing sensitivity towards cadets with special needs; promoting development of appropriate skills needed to be effective in sport or activity; communicating appropriately with parents, cadets, and officials; making effective use of available time; taking advantage of opportunities to improve own skills and knowledge of activity.
19. Communicates with parents by showing tact and diplomacy when talking with parents; interpreting cadets’ academic and behavioral performance clearly and accurately in written reports and conferences; reacting to parents’ criticism in a positive way; responding promptly to parent concerns; maintaining a level of communication with parents; supporting and participating in parent-teacher activities; promoting parent interest in the school; using correct written expression in reports.
20. Participates in professional growth activities by attending conferences, participating in workshops, making visits to other classrooms in the school, and adapting newly acquired knowledge to classroom instruction and curriculum.

Qualifications: Proven experience as a conductor or senior musician in a professional or military band. Advanced knowledge of music theory, conducting, instrumentation, and ensemble coordination. Demonstrated leadership and personnel management skills. Excellent communication and organizational abilities. Familiarity with military customs, courtesies, and protocol (prior military experience preferred). Bachelor’s degree in Music or a related field preferred; formal military music training (e.g., School of Music) is an asset.

Desirable Attributes: Adaptability and composure under pressure. Passion for music education and mentorship. Creative mindset for arranging and program development.

EMPLOYMENT IS CONTINGENT UPON SUCCESSFULLY PASSING TB & DRUG SCREENING AND FINGERPRINT CLEARANCE.

The Army and Navy Academy is an equal opportunity employer. We aim to align our hiring process with our values and mission.

The Academy has a competitive benefits program that includes the following:
• Multiple medical, dental, and vision plans to choose from
• Competitive retirement plan with Principal Financial, including a six percent employer contribution.
• Short and long-term disability insurance paid by Army and Navy Academy.
• Basic Life & AD&D paid by Army and Navy Academy (supplemental insurance plans available)
• Other voluntary benefits
• Generous paid time-off policies, including 20 vacation days per year for staff
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition Remission (tuition for dependents enrolled at Army and Navy Academy)
• Use of school fitness facilities and swimming pool
• Free lunch and parking
• Housing near campus may be available for this position