Violin Teaching Artist, YOLA

About Los Angeles Philharmonic Association

Founded in 1919, the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association presents, and promotes the performing arts in its varied forms at the highest level of excellence to a diverse and large audience, at Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, The Ford, and YOLA.

Position: Violin Teaching Artist
Department: Learning – YOLA

Salary: $45.00/hour
Status: Part-Time
Instrument Focus: Violin
FLSA Grade: Non-Exempt

Program

Summary:

YOLA (Youth Orchestra Los Angeles) is LA Phil’s signature education program, inspired by El Sistema and led by Gustavo Dudamel. YOLA provides over 1,500 students annually with access to instruments, high-quality music instruction, and holistic support, helping young people thrive artistically, socially, and academically at no cost.

YOLA provides transformational and equitable access to music education for young people from underserved communities, to support their personal development, their communities, and beyond. The work of YOLA is focused on two areas:

• Local programs which directly serve communities across Los Angeles
• National programs which provide opportunities for young musicians, teaching artists, program administrators, and other stakeholders to learn from and create community with one another.

Position Summary:

The Violin Teaching Artist is a core member of YOLA’s strings faculty, delivering exceptional, culturally responsive music instruction that aligns with YOLA’s mission for transformative and equitable music education. This role focuses on teaching private lessons, sectionals, and large ensemble rehearsals while contributing to a vibrant, inclusive musical community.

The Violin Teaching Artist combines high-level artistic excellence with strong pedagogical skills, teaching multiple skill levels through a culturally responsive lens. Instruction is provided primarily after school (3:00–7:00pm) during the academic year, with some weekend commitments.

YOLA’s educational outcomes are guided by three core pillars:

• Artistic Formation
• Community & Life Skills
• Opportunity & Access

Position Elements:

• Instruct students in group classes, sectionals, ensemble coaching, and private lessons with emphasis on tone development, technique, and musical expression specific to the violin.
• Deliver sequential, culturally responsive instruction in alignment with YOLA’s curriculum, benchmarks, and values.
• Coach students toward measurable growth through juries, ensemble preparation, and technical fluency.
• Assist in full orchestra rehearsals by playing, modeling, and coaching within the violin section while maintaining appropriate professional conduct.
• Collaborate regularly with YOLA faculty, conductors, and curriculum leads on lesson planning, repertoire, and rehearsal strategy.
• Create inclusive and respectful classroom environments that foster trust, leadership, and artistic identity.
• Promote student agency, community connection, and life skills through value-based teaching and mentorship.
• Maintain proactive communication with families, site staff, academic tutors, and LA Phil leadership to support holistic student development.
• Prepare students for external opportunities such as auditions, honor ensembles, scholarship programs, and summer music festivals.
• Identify and address barriers to learning, including equitable access to resources and instruments.
• Actively participate in professional development, peer feedback sessions, and pedagogical training
• Uphold professional behavior and the YOLA Code of Conduct in all settings, including rehearsals and large group environments.
• Support YOLA-wide programs and performances, including cultural celebrations and special events.

Evaluation & Professional Growth

• Set and track individualized goals in alignment with evaluations and professional growth plans.
• Participate in coaching, peer-to-peer feedback, cross-site learning communities, and professional development.
• Receive interventions and clear benchmarks if outcomes fall below expectations.
• Engage in structured review cycles, incorporating student and family feedback, classroom observations, and reflective practice.

YOLA Teaching Artists are caretakers of minors and are legally designated…