Saxophone Performance Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Position: Teaching Artist - Saxophone (Jazz)
Department: Learning - YOLA
Status: Part-Time
Reports to: Associate Operations Director
Instrument Focus: Saxophone (Jazz)
Primary Work Location: Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA), Los Angeles, CA
FLSA Grade: Non-Exempt
About Learning at the LA Phil:
Leading the LA Phil's strategic engagement with youth and education across Los Angeles, the Learning programs at the LA Phil champion the organization's investment in the larger arts ecosystem while providing thought leadership and advocacy for youth engagement program models that uplift and inspire.
About the YOLA Program:
Mission Statement:
YOLA provides transformational and equitable access to music education for young people from underserved communities, to support their personal development, their communities, and beyond.
YOLA Vision for Impact:
By 2035, YOLA is serving well over 4,000 students across LA County. Thousands of alumni believe the transformative experience of playing music with the YOLA community contributed to their personal development, a path to excellence, and a deep and lasting love of music, motivating them to meaningfully contribute as adults to the creative industry ecosystem.
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 1,700 students annually access to instruments, high-quality music instruction, and holistic support at no cost.
The work of YOLA focuses on:
- Local programs serving communities across Los Angeles
- National programs supporting musicians, educators, and administrators
About Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) & HOLA Music Studios (HMS):
Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) provides underserved youth with exceptional programs in academics, arts, and athletics within a nurturing environment, empowering them to develop their potential, pursue their education, and strengthen their communities. HOLA's core values are Respect, Responsibility, Positive Communication, Inclusion, and Support.
HOLA Music Studios (HMS), supported through the partnership and support of the LA Phil, is a free music education program made possible through HOLA - Heart of Los Angeles Youth. HOLA has served the Rampart District of Los Angeles for over 30 years. HMS currently serves over 80 students living in and around the Rampart District by providing free instruments and music instruction to participating students who uphold program expectations around instrument care, practice, participation in music programming, and academic tutoring. HOLA Music embodies the core values of all HOLA programs.
Position Summary:
The Saxophone (Jazz) Teaching Artist is a core member of YOLA's faculty, delivering high-quality, culturally responsive instruction at the Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) site. This role includes private lessons, sectionals, and ensemble rehearsals while fostering a supportive and inclusive musical environment.
The Teaching Artist brings strong artistic and pedagogical expertise in saxophone instruction, working with students across multiple levels. Instruction is primarily during school hours, with some weekend commitments.
YOLA's educational outcomes are grounded in:
- Artistic Formation
- Community & Life Skills
- Opportunity & Access
Position Elements:
- Teach group classes, sectionals, private lessons, and ensemble coaching with focus on saxophone tone production, breath control, articulation, technique, and stylistic interpretation
- Deliver culturally responsive, sequential instruction aligned with YOLA curriculum and benchmarks
- Develop student skills across jazz and contemporary/ensemble contexts as applicable
- Coach students toward measurable growth through juries, rehearsals, and performances
- Support full ensemble rehearsals by modeling within the saxophone/wind section
- Collaborate with conductors, faculty, and curriculum leads on repertoire and strategies
- Create inclusive classrooms that foster belonging, confidence, and artistic identity
- Promote leadership, discipline, and community engagement among students
- Maintain consistent communication with families, staff, and leadership regarding student progress
- Prepare students for auditions, honor bands/orchestras, and external opportunities
- Identify and address barriers to participation and access
- Participate in professional development, peer observation, and training
- Uphold YOLA's Code of Conduct and professional standards
- Support performances, concerts, and HOLA site-based events
Evaluation & Professional Growth:
- Set and track professional goals aligned with program expectations
- Participate in coaching, evaluations, and feedback cycles
- Engage in cross-site collaboration and peer learning communities
- Incorporate feedback from observations, students, and families
Mandated Reporter & Code of Conduct:
As a Teaching Artist working with minors, this role is a mandated reporter under California law. Responsibilities include:
- Reporting suspected abuse or neglect
- Maintaining clear professional boundaries
- Supporting a safe and inclusive learning environment
- Seeking guidance when needed
Shared YOLA Values:
- Self-Respect and Respect for Community
- Safety (for Self and Community)
- Curiosity
- Inclusion
- Collaboration
- Creativity
Position Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in music performance, music education, or related field (or equivalent experience) with focus on saxophone
- Minimum 2 years of teaching experience (private, classroom, or ensemble settings)
- Strong background in saxophone pedagogy across beginner through advanced levels
- Experience working with diverse student populations
- Commitment to culturally responsive, student-centered teaching
- Strong classroom management and adaptability
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
- Bilingual Spanish/English preferred