General Job Description
The Director of Bands teaches undergraduate instrumental ensembles, focusing primarily on directing and developing the ACU Marching Band. This is a full-time position that includes teaching 12 credits per semester (24 credits per academic year) in the Music Department. The Band Director's service as recruiter will be credited as a portion of the overall faculty responsibility at 6 credits per semester (12 credits per academic year). They may also teach other music courses based on qualifications. Successful candidates will have a proven record of success in instrumental ensemble leadership and recruitment. In addition, the candidate will have an active career, demonstrating potential for continued success and contribution to the field. Primary duty is to instruct undergraduate band students and build the instrumental music program.
Faculty are responsible for the preparation and delivery of all course materials--including the syllabus, lecture, and other course delivery preparation, while keeping attendance records. This role also requires a comprehensive understanding of and commitment to the unique Christian mission and vision of ACU to Transform Culture with Truth, and the ability to advance that mission and vision through the performance of its duties, including person-to-person mentorship and discipleship. This role demands a dynamic leader with musical expertise, educational insight, and a commitment to the university's Christian mission.
Typical Duties
- Instructing students in classroom and/or lab settings
- Developing written syllabi and required course materials
- Administering student assessments, records, and recording grades
- Scheduling, preparing, and supervising course-appropriate performances, i.e. Athletic Events, Recitals, Studio Classes, Concerts, Chapel services, etc.
- Participation in departmental and university-wide meetings and committees
- Maintaining office hours to advise and assist students
- Provide spiritual support and prayer to students and staff
Other Duties and Responsibilities
- Collaboration, organization, and efficiency are critical to success in this role.
- Achieving other duties and tasks, not necessarily mentioned in this description, with utmost collegiality, integrity, and professionalism, as directed.
- Commitment to the University's faith statement, mission, and purposes, with an active Christian faith.
- Comfort and familiarity with the practice of praying with and for others, including students, faculty, and fellow University staff.
- The ability to meaningfully support and encourage students, faculty, and staff from a biblical worldview perspective, using relevant and applicable references from the Old and New Testaments and orthodox Christian writings.
- Demonstrated alignment with and enthusiastic support for the Christian Mission and Core Commitments of the University, including signing the University's Statement of Faith and Core Commitments annually.
Education and Experience
- Master's degree in Music is required, a Doctorate is desirable; instrumental conducting or a related field is preferred.
- Minimum of three years of higher education teaching experience in the field of Music and/or specified Music discipline is highly desirable.
Working Conditions
- Requires the ability to read, write, see, hear, and speak clearly
- Requires the ability to stand, walk, bend, reach or sit for long periods of time
- Requires working on a computer, PC or laptop; ability to work these and office related equipment
- Requires travel, including recruitment visits
- May be required to lift objects weighing up to 20 pounds
Musical Leadership, Ability and Skills
- Conduct and recruit for university instrumental programs: plan repertoire, lead rehearsals, and conduct performances.
- Recruit new students for instrumental ensembles: engage in campus outreach events to attract participants.
- Build relationships with area high school band directors: recruit incoming students through established connections and high school visits.
- Support ACU events: ensure ensemble participation in university events as requested.
- Plan, coordinate, and organize instrumental activities: manage performances, events, clinics, workshops, and tours both on and off-campus. Oversee all related logistics.
- Oversee instrumental program resources: manage the budget, inventory, and maintain the music library and equipment.
- Select diverse and engaging repertoire: selecting music that supports athletics, events, and concerts from an array of eras, styles, and genres.
- Handle administrative duties: support the growth and success of the band program through effective administration.
- Evaluate student progress: use data analysis and current pedagogical practices to assess and provide feedback on student and ensemble performance.
- Collaborate with music faculty/ensembles: develop ensemble performance collaborations.
- Evaluate musical content: demonstrate musicianship skill in reading, analyzing, and interpreting music scores.
- Handle student and job-related challenges: proficient in responding effectively to sensitive inquiries and feedback.
- Remain professionally active: participate in conferences, workshops, and published work, while engaging with professional organizations in their discipline.
Time Required: Regular schedule of office hours, varying week to week to accommodate instrumental activities.
Fair Labor Standards Act: This position is considered to be full-time, exempt from overtime pay provisions as provided by the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and any applicable state laws.