Position Summary
The Audio Production Teaching Artist will provide youth with hands-on instruction in music and sound production, covering technical skills such as recording, editing, mixing, and sound design. In addition to teaching the craft of sound production, the role will also explore the entrepreneurial side of the industry, guiding apprentices on how to market their music, set up recording studios, and run sound-based businesses.
The ideal candidate will have expertise in both sound production and entrepreneurship, with a passion for mentoring young people in using sound technology to create their own compositions and projects.

Key Responsibilities
Lead workshops on sound production, including topics such as recording, editing, mixing, audio effects, mastering, and sound design.
Teach apprentices how to use audio equipment (e.g., microphones, audio
interfaces MIDI controllers) and software (e.g., Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live).
Guide apprentices through the process of composing, recording, and editing
original music or sound projects for various mediums like film, video games, or
podcasts, helping them refine their technical and creative skills.
Provide mentorship on sound design, audio effects, and mastering, while fostering creativity and teamwork.
Teach the entrepreneurial aspects of sound production, including studio
management, pricing, and marketing services.
Support apprentices in producing and showcasing their projects through live
performances, digital platforms, or community events.
Create a supportive learning environment for apprentices to explore sound as an art form and storytelling tool.
Encourage collaboration on music and sound projects, fostering teamwork and
creativity.
Oversee and support apprentices in completing client-based projects, ensuring
high-quality results and professional delivery.
Create an inclusive and supportive environment that fosters creativity, confidence, and entrepreneurial skill development.

Qualifications
Professional expertise in sound production, music production, and/or sound
design.
Proficiency in audio recording software (e.g., Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live).
Experience working with youth in an instructional or mentoring capacity.
Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
Ability to foster creativity and collaboration in apprentices and guide them in
technical skill development.
Passion for music, sound design, and empowering young people to express
themselves and develop entrepreneurial skills in the sound industry.
Experience running a sound production business or working in the music industry.
Must pass a background check.

Time Commitment
The SPARK! meets Tuesdays & Thursdays from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM, with the Kickoff & Orientation on October 1st and Celebration Event on December 19th Apprentices will engage in weekly sessions, building skills and working on creative projects.
Teaching artists are expected to attend the kickoff & orientation and celebration and commit to every Tuesday from October 8th December 17th.

Discipline Focused Workshops Entrepreneurship & Business Workshops
(Tuesdays) (Thursdays)
October 8th
October 15th
October 22nd
October 29th
November 5th
November 12th
November 19th
November 26th
December 3rd
December 10th
December 17th
October 10th
October 17th
October 24th
October 31st
November 7th
November 14th
November 21st
November 28th (No programming)
December 5th
December 12th
December 19th

Additional Notes
This is an independent contractor position. While the primary responsibilities and needs for this role have been outlined, they may not be all-encompassing. Flexibility is expected as the program evolves, and additional tasks may arise to support the success of participants and the overall program. Direction and guidance will be provided by the Executive Director and Program Coordinator, ensuring that all activities align with the program's goals and objectives. The selected candidate should be open to collaboration and adaptable to the program's dynamic nature.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Pledge
The Y of the North is committed to the work and everyday practices of eliminating
disparities and eradicating of unjust systems to become a multicultural, anti-racist and anti-oppressive organization. YMCA of the North team members and volunteers must exemplify the associations mission, vision and values of caring, equity, honesty, respect and responsibility.

The YMCA of the North continues to develop plans and strategies to ensure team members and volunteers reflect the demographics of the communities we serve. We will continually conduct institutional racism and oppression review of our policies, procedures and practices in recruitment and selection; compensation and benefits; professionaldevelopment and training; promotions; transfers; layoffs; terminations; and the ongoing development of a multicultural, anti-racist and anti-oppressive work environment and culture that promotes equity and respect for the human dignity of all. We value and respect this diversity and choose to be inclusive through our acceptance of all.