Instructional Assistant, Music

Job Description

Definition Monitors and maintains one or more instructional music laboratories and practice rooms, provides instructional assistance to students in the development of perceptive listening skills, and is responsible for the routine business transactions of the music department office.

Typical Duties Schedules and oversees the use of one or more instructional music laboratories and practice rooms by students, staff, and faculty. Assists students with listening assignments to develop perceptive listening techniques by identifying musical styles, reading musical scores, and analyzing the harmonic, melodic, and rhythmic structure of musical compositions. Explains to students established instructional laboratory and equipment policies. Assists students in the use of music computer software and equipment used as part of the instructional program. Assists instructional staff by providing observations of the problems encountered and progress being made by students using a laboratory as part of the educational program. Effectively utilizes the capabilities and functions of standard computer software applications and music software in the performance of duties. Issues and receives materials and equipment for student use in laboratory and classroom, keeps records, and effects the return of materials and equipment checked out to students. Maintains inventory records for supplies, services, and equipment and prepares periodic inventory reports and requisitions. Maintains laboratory attendance and progress records for instructional staff. Orders, receives, classifies, catalogs, and files scores, books, and audio recordings used in the instructional music laboratory. Gathers information and prepares programs and promotional materials by planning and maintaining production and mailing schedules. Answers inquiries from District staff, students, and community members regarding musical performances and music department business. Prepares letters, memorandums, and reports. Develops and maintains the record and filing system of the music department. May assist in posting updated information on department Web pages, as needed. May provide basic course information to students. May provide training and work direction to student employees. Performs related duties as assigned.

Distinguishing Characteristics An Instructional Assistant, Music, applies knowledge of music in assisting students in the development of perceptive listening skills; schedules and oversees the use of instructional music laboratories and practice rooms; and is responsible for the routine day-to-day business transactions of the music department office. A Piano Accompanist/Coach provides piano accompaniment for music, dance and choreography classes, choral groups, and soloists; coaches students outside of class to improve vocal and/or instrumental skills.

Supervision General supervision is received from an academic supervisor. Functional supervision is received from instructional staff. Work direction may be provided to student employees.

Class Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• Musical instruments
• Musical terminology
• Musical periods, styles, and classifications
• Basic principles of music theory
• Library practices and procedures applicable to a music collection
• Sources of supply for instrumental and choral music
• Office practices and procedures
• Capabilities of computer systems, software, and hardware common to music instructional laboratories
• Recordkeeping procedures

Ability to:

• Provide instructional assistance to students and instructional staff
• Read music
• Organize and maintain a large and diversified collection of music
• Operate a variety of audio-visual and office equipment properly
• Prepare attractive and effective publicity and informational materials
• Secure and safely store supplies
• Keep detailed and precise records
• Give clear and concise instructions
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Work effectively and cooperatively with a diverse pool of students and instructional staff
• Effectively utilize computer hardware and software applications
• Learn general and specialized software applications

Entrance Qualifications

Education and Experience:

A. An associate degree or its equivalent from a recognized college or university with a major in music or a related field.
OR
B. Graduation from high school or its equivalent AND two years of full-time, paid experience in providing instrumental or vocal instruction.

Benefits Medical and dental insurance and vision care plans are provided for employees and their dependents. A $50,000 life insurance policy is provided free of charge for each employee. New employees receive 12 full-pay days and 88 half-pay days of illness leave. 19 paid holidays per year. Vacation days accrue annually beginning at 10 days and increasing incrementally to 24 days depending on years of service with the District. Vacation days for management and confidential positions begin at 15, 20, or 24 days. Other paid time off includes: bereavement leave, personal necessity leave, court subpoena, and jury duty. Employees become members of the Public Employees Retirement System. Employees are also covered by Social Security. Employee Assistance Program.

Selection Process The examination process may consist of one or more parts which may include a training and experience evaluation, written test, performance test and/or oral interview.

Reasonable Accommodations Our class specification generally describes the duties, responsibilities, and requirements characteristic of the position(s) within this job class. The duties, responsibilities, and requirements of a particular position within this class may vary from the duties of other positions within the class. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Los Angeles Community College District provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with covered disabilities on a case-by-case basis throughout the application, examination, and hiring processes and throughout employment. If an individual is in doubt about their ability to perform the duties and responsibilities of a position or possession of any other requirement noted in a class specification or job announcement, they should always apply for a position and request reasonable accommodation at the appropriate time.