Professor of Practice-MUSIC, Jazz and Commercial Music

PROFESSOR OF PRACTICE (Non-Tenure-Track) SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY, Setnor School of Music: Voice, Jazz and Commercial Music

The Setnor School of Music within the College of Visual and Performing Arts at Syracuse University invites applications for a Professor of Practice - Voice, Jazz and Commercial Music to begin Fall 2027. This is a full-time, 9-month, non-tenure track appointment, with an initial three-year term and the possibility of renewal.

The successful candidate will be an accomplished, active performing artist with a proven record of teaching applied voice in commercial styles, including popular music and jazz, and related courses. We seek an individual whose artistic and pedagogical work reflects both breadth of style and creative engagement in commercial music, with the potential and desire to contribute both in leadership and supporting roles throughout the School of Music. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students; experience recruiting and teaching outstanding undergraduate students; and an established national profile as a performer and pedagogue. Responsibilities include teaching applied voice lessons in commercial music and leading vocal jazz/commercial music ensembles as assigned. The position may include the teaching of improvisation, mixed combos, and jazz history, as well as related duties as assigned by the Director of the School.

A bachelor's degree in jazz or commercial performance is required. The chosen candidate will be expected to be an active member of the Setnor community, serving on various university, college, and school committees, participating in student recruitment, attending student performances, as well as other related duties as assigned by the Director of the School of Music. The chosen candidate will also develop and nurture artistic outlets and opportunities here in Syracuse for our students and faculty, both on our campus and in the community.

About The College of Visual and Performing Arts

The College of Visual and Performing Arts at Syracuse University is committed to the education of cultural leaders who will engage and inspire audiences through performance, visual art, design, scholarship, and commentary. We provide the tools for self-discovery and risk-taking in an environment that thrives on critical thought and action. To learn more about the college, our distinguished faculty, and our program, please visit our websites at www.syracuse.edu, www.vpa.syracuse.edu.

This position is part of a bargaining unit and is represented by a union, SEIU Local 200 United.

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor's degree in jazz or commercial music
• Outstanding professional performance experience in commercial music or jazz, including but not limited to recording, touring, session work, or music directing.
• Significant experience in teaching applied voice in a variety of styles, improvisation skills, and leading vocal jazz ensembles. Experience with musical theater is welcome.
• Performance experience as an ensemble member.
• Excellent piano skills.

Job Specific Qualifications

• Current knowledge of vocal pedagogy and repertoire.
• Accomplished performing artist with an established national professional profile.
• Strong ensemble rehearsal techniques.
• Strong communicative and interpersonal skills that contribute to a respectful and collaborative work environment.
• Ability to develop strategies in defining and supporting the future direction of the Jazz and Commercial Music Area and the School of Music.
• A record of successful recruiting.
• Organizational and leadership abilities.

The school is particularly interested in candidates who have communication abilities and cross-cultural competencies to maximize their effectiveness with many different groups of students, colleagues, and community members.

Responsibilities

• Teach applied voice lessons in commercial music to undergraduate and graduate students.
• Accompany in applied lessons and ensemble coaching.
• Direct vocal jazz ensembles.
• Other teaching within candidate's area of expertise as assigned by the Director.
• Maintain active expertise in the field of performance and pedagogy.
• Serve on committees in the School, College, and University.
• Recruitment, program development, community outreach.

Physical Requirements

Not Applicable

Tools/Equipment

Not Applicable

Application Instructions

In addition to completing an online application, please attach the following:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter
• Teaching Philosophy
• Portfolio Website URL (applicants can upload their link to video recordings of conducted performance and rehearsal, as well as recordings of playing their instrument, here)
• Name and contact information for a minimum of four (4) references.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but priority consideration given to candidates who apply by November 2, 2026.