Assistant Professor - Music (Director of Bands) Job at Inside Higher Ed in Valdo

Assistant Professor - Music (Director of Bands) We are seeking an Assistant Professor in Music (Director of Bands) to begin July 1, 2026. The appointed faculty member will serve as the Director of Bands at Valdosta State University and will contribute to our mission of teaching, research, and service in the Department of Music. About VSU Valdosta State University is a comprehensive institution of the University System of Georgia. We are dedicated to teaching excellence, innovative research, and community engagement. Our values include civility, integrity, and citizenship. The Department of Music has approximately 25 faculty and artists, 150 music majors and minors, and offers over 150 performances each year. Job Summary As Director of Bands, you will lead instrumental ensembles, teach undergraduate and graduate courses in conducting and music education, and develop a long‑term vision for the Bands program. You will be responsible for community outreach, recruitment, fundraising, and collaboration with local music educators. Application Materials Should Include A cover letter addressing qualifications and vision for the VSU Bands. Curriculum vitae. Short teaching philosophy with actions for community engagement and recruitment strategies. Contact information for three professional references, one of which must be from your current institution. Links to performances and rehearsal videos no longer than 30 minutes. Responsibilities Typical Allocation of Duties: Teaching and scholarship (80%) – Teach classes and conduct or present research in conducting or music education. Service (20%) – Participate in service at the department, college, and university levels. Supervisor Expectations Conduct the VSU Wind Ensemble and other instrumental ensembles as assigned. Teach undergraduate and/or graduate courses in conducting and music education, up to 9 credit hours per semester with a course release for Director duties. Lead strategic recruitment initiatives to grow and diversify the VSU Bands program. Work directly with the Assistant Director of Bands on Marching Band initiatives, recruitment, and program growth. Develop and implement a long‑term vision for the growth and visibility of the bands. Engage actively in fundraising, budgeting, procurement, and development efforts. Maintain strong ties with local and regional music educators and community organizations. Mentor and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in all degree programs. Participate in departmental, college, and university service, including forward‑facing community engagement. Pursue scholarly, creative, or professional activity consistent with university expectations. Other duties as assigned. Required Qualifications DMA or PhD in Music Education or Conducting. Demonstrated success in conducting collegiate‑level ensembles. Evidence of effective teaching and recruiting in university or equivalent music settings. Strong record of community involvement, recruitment, and engagement. Preferred Qualifications At least one degree in Music Education. Experience with practicum and student teacher placements and field observations. Experience working with first‑generation and non‑traditional students. Familiarity with Georgia music education standards and regional band programs. Proven ability to collaborate across disciplines and departments, including establishing strong and lasting connections with local stakeholders in music programs. Record of creative activity, scholarship, or professional engagement. Experience with budgeting, fundraising, and procurement processes. Proposed Salary Commensurate with experience. USG Core Values The University System of Georgia’s core values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. For more information on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct, visit USG Board Policy . Conditions of Employment Professional references with current contact information. Documentation of academic credentials. Employment history. Employment Is Contingent Upon Completion of a background check investigation, including a criminal background check. Reference checks. Employment may also be contingent upon Satisfactory credit check. Successful completion of a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR). Pre‑employment drug testing. Confirmation of credentials. Training Requirements New employee orientation. USG Ethics Policy, Conflict of Interest/Outside Activities Policy, Drug‑Free Workplace, Sexual Misconduct and Title IX, FERPA, Motor Vehicle Policy, Workers Compensation (new hires), Georgia Open Records Act (new hires). USG Cybersecurity Training (twice yearly). Job‑specific training such as FMLA, Workers Compensation, Budget Manager training, Purchasing Training (ePro & PCard), Defensive Driving. Equal Employment Opportunity Valdosta State University is an equal opportunity educational institution and will not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, religion, color, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation. Accommodations If you are a qualified individual with a disability, you may request a reasonable accommodation. Contact Catherine Wills in the Office of Human Resources at croark@valdosta.edu. Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Education and Training Industries Online Audio and Video Media #J-18808-Ljbffr