What are the responsibilities and job description for the Adjunct Instructor of Opera position at Baldwin Wallace University?
Adjunct Instructor of Opera
Baldwin Wallace University Conservatory of Performing Arts invites applications for an enthusiastic, collaborative, and creative Adjunct Instructor of Opera. The BW Conservatory offers an undergraduate-only performance environment designed to prepare exceptional student-musicians for professional careers in music. A National Opera Association award winner, BW is recognized for production excellence and high-level student training.
The ideal candidate will thrive in a stimulating musical environment, bringing an energized approach to teaching undergraduate singers and a deep commitment to advancing the evolution of the art form.
Job Duties & Responsibilities: The successful candidate will work in close partnership with vocal coaches, conductor/music directors, and the broader voice faculty to align musical and dramatic objectives. Additionally, depending on the candidate's specific expertise, duties may include directing and/or producing opera productions to ensure a high-quality, professional experience for undergraduate performers, and/or teaching undergraduate vocal performance workshop courses focused on essential performance skills, acting for singers, and scene study. The total instructional and production load for this position is approximately 15 load hours per academic year.
Reporting & Administrative Structure: The Adjunct Instructor of Opera reports directly to the Chair of Vocal Studies and operates under the administrative oversight of the Associate Dean and Dean of the Conservatory.
Minimum Qualifications: Master of Music (MM) in Opera Directing, Vocal Performance, or a related field (or commensurate professional experience). Demonstrated success in stage direction and a proven track record of working effectively with undergraduate-level singers or young artists.
Preferred Qualifications: Terminal degree in a related musical or theatrical field. Experience teaching acting for singers or performance workshops at the collegiate level. Demonstrated ability to collaborate across disciplines and a record of professional operatic direction. Experience working with individuals from varied backgrounds and a commitment to inclusive excellence.
Baldwin Wallace University is a private liberal arts and sciences institution located 20 miles southwest of Cleveland. Established in 1898, the Conservatory offers 500 undergraduate music, theatre, dance, and arts entrepreneurship majors a professional training program enhanced by a comprehensive and entrepreneurial liberal arts curriculum. Our artistically charged atmosphere inspires students in all majors to strive for creative excellence. Student programs are small enough for individual attention, yet large enough to provide outstanding production and performing opportunities. Our proximity to Cleveland provides countless cultural, educational, and performing opportunities for students and faculty alike. Learn more at www.bw.edu.
In a continuing effort to enrich its academic environment and provide equal educational and employment opportunities, the University and the Conservatory actively encourage applications from individuals who desire an environment that celebrates diversity. Please send a cover letter, CV, teaching philosophy (describing your pedagogical approach to directing and teaching vocal performance skills). Please include links to videos of directing projects (portions of full productions and/or scenes welcome), and a list of three professional references in one (1) PDF and submit using the To Apply link on BW’s Employment and Careers’ web page at https://www.bw.edu/employment.
Review of materials will begin June 26, 2026, and continue until the position is filled.
Baldwin Wallace University is an EEO employer and educator. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. At BW, we support and encourage diversity in a variety of forms. We value and appreciate inclusive excellence in the classroom, within extracurricular activities and as we engage our community partners.