Job Description:

The School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) at Pacific Lutheran University invites applications for a tenure track position, Assistant Professor of Music – Director of Music Education, beginning September 1, 2025. The ideal candidate is an exceptional musician who demonstrates musical artistry and leadership, contributing to the cultural richness of the greater Seattle-Tacoma area, while fostering an inclusive learning environment that attracts and sustains a diverse population of students. A commitment to excellence while working collaboratively with faculty colleagues and students is expected. The PLU SMTD is a nationally recognized center for musical performance, education, and community. The Mary Baker Russell Music Center, with its exquisite Lagerquist Concert Hall and outstanding rehearsal and learning facilities, is an architectural and aesthetic jewel carefully set amid majestic trees in the Pacific Northwest. The Karen Hille Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, a state of the art facility that opened in 2013, provides a venue for most Opera, Theatre, and Dance productions, and a secondary space for some music performances. 

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction for the undergraduate Music Education program at PLU. The number of declared BME students averages 65 students annually, with Band, Choral, and Orchestral concentrations. Elementary and Secondary level focus areas are available within each concentration.
• Teach coursework, assigned in accordance with the qualification of the applicant and the instructional needs of the SMTD. Load assignments may include: (1) courses in elementary music education; (2) courses in instrumental (string) music education; (3) supervision of practicum students and student teachers; (4) studio instruction; (5) other courses for the music major in areas such as theory, history, or aural skills; (4) pan-university courses.
• Assume a position of leadership and high visibility in music education in the state and region.
• Actively recruit top high school students and participate in SMTD recruiting activities (e.g., department scholarship auditions).
• Participate in College of Professional Studies and SMTD faculty activities, as well as relevant service to the university.
• Other duties as assigned based upon the appointee’s strengths and department needs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with, teach, and mentor diverse groups and/or diverse students.
• Knowledge of and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Knowledge of a diverse, broad repertoire, and current research and techniques in music education, classroom pedagogy, and related areas.

Required Qualifications

• Terminal degree (DMA or PhD) in Music Education or related area. ABD will be considered, but the degree must be completed by September 1, 2025. Master’s degree plus relevant and justifiable professional experience and recognition may substitute for a terminal degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior teaching experience at the college level.
• Terminal degree (DMA or PhD) in Music Education or related area.
• Piano proficiency.

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