Ravinia, North America's oldest music festival, nestled in the Chicago suburbs, presents over 140 different events throughout the summer. These concerts run the gamut from Yo-Yo Ma to John Legend to the annual summer residency of the nation's finest orchestra, The Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Through its REACH*TEACH*PLAY education programs, Ravinia brings music to over 85,000 people in Chicago area schools and communities. Our portfolio of programs is designed to foster diverse audience involvement and provide access to the highest quality music education and live music experiences to those with the fewest resources.

A signature program of REACH*TEACH*PLAY, Sistema Ravinia offers intensive afterschool music education to students in under-resourced schools in Chicago and Lake County. Sistema Ravinia fosters youth empowerment and social development through exceptional ensemble training. Participating students meet daily throughout the year at their nucleo (program site) and are taught in sectionals and in full orchestra. Shaped by the philosophy of the noted El Sistema model, Ravinia has embraced the notion of transforming groups of children into communities of musicians who in turn transform their communities. Students receive mentorship from teachers and administrators that make them feel loved and valued as an asset to their nucleo community.

The Program Assistant is responsible for the daily set-up and takedown of rehearsal spaces and will assist with general administrative duties (data entry, copying, filing, organizing), parent phone calls, and special events.  This is a part-time, hourly position that reports to Sistema Ravinia’s Program Coordinator.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Set-up and take down of orchestra rehearsal and performance spaces (chairs, music stands)
• Assist with program communication (parent phone calls)
• Assist with student snacks, breaks, and dismissal
• Assist with data entry and filing (online database/attendance and student files)
• Ensure that instruments are properly stored and spaces are clean
• Oversee student pick-up at end of program day
• Assist with inventory of instruments, books, and supplies
• Assist with student registration, parent meetings, field trips and special events

Knowledge and Skills Required

• Physical labor required; Ability to move chairs, stands and instruments between multiple floors
• Detail oriented with strong organizational abilities.
• Interest and ability to be a positive role model for students, parents, and community
• Superior interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with educators, administrators and persons from diverse backgrounds

Education and Experience

• Related work experience preferred
• Experience and desire to work with children and families from diverse ethnic and economic backgrounds

Work Environment

• Working daily (Monday - Friday) after school at Catalyst Circle Rock School with some evenings and weekends, throughout the school year and summer
• Interaction with young students, parents and administrators where the safety of the students is paramount

Ravinia is an equal opportunity employer.

Interested applicants should attach a cover letter and resume to apply