What are the responsibilities and job description for the Orchestra Conductor/Faculty position at Millikin University?
MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track, Assistant Professor of Music-Orchestra Conductor. Position begins August 2026. Completed doctorate required. Documented history of exceptional professional activity; evidence of successful teaching within the orchestra, classroom, and/or applied studio; and ability to recruit and retain students are essential. Responsibilities include leadership/management of the Millikin Decatur Symphony Orchestra (a hybrid orchestra comprised of Millikin faculty, students, and per-service musicians). Annual collaboration with Opera Theater and School of Theater & Dance productions comprises a portion of the MDSO season. The candidate will work closely with the Symphony Orchestra Guild of Decatur and local media to support and promote the orchestra and the Millikin School of Music. Other expectations include expertise in a secondary area (applied teaching preferred); university service in the form of faculty governance; and involvement in the campus community. Candidates demonstrating commitment to academic advising, entrepreneurship, and community outreach will receive strong consideration. Position begins August 2026.
Millikin University School of Music has been NASM accredited since 1934. It comprises a vibrant community of faculty and undergraduate students, offering Bachelor of Music degrees in Performance, Music Education, Commercial Music, and Music Business, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music. The School of Music's curriculum embraces the interdisciplinarity of diverse musical and academic experiences. The School of Music is designated as an "All Steinway School." A Millikin education is characterized by Performance Learning - a unique approach to learning that challenges students to engage with third party stakeholders in the performance of their academic discipline. Students apply their learning to professional experiences both in Decatur and around the world. Millikin University's mission is to deliver on the promise of education, preparing students for professional success, democratic citizenship in a global environment, and a personal life of meaning and value.
To receive full consideration, please submit: 1) letter of application; 2) curriculum vitae; 3) teaching philosophy; 3) vision statement for the symphony orchestra as artistic and educational enterprises; 4) names and contact information of at least three professional references; and 6) video recordings of recent performances demonstrating both conducting and applied instrument performance (as links). All materials must be submitted electronically at www.millikin.edu/employment. Candidates should be prepared to submit additional materials upon request.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. As part of the interview process, finalists will be invited to guest conduct a MDSO concert during the 2025-2026 academic year. Offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of background check. Millikin University is an equal opportunity employer. Beyond meeting fully its legal obligations for non-discrimination, Millikin University is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where members from all backgrounds can live, learn, and thrive.
Millikin University School of Music has been NASM accredited since 1934. It comprises a vibrant community of faculty and undergraduate students, offering Bachelor of Music degrees in Performance, Music Education, Commercial Music, and Music Business, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music. The School of Music's curriculum embraces the interdisciplinarity of diverse musical and academic experiences. The School of Music is designated as an "All Steinway School." A Millikin education is characterized by Performance Learning - a unique approach to learning that challenges students to engage with third party stakeholders in the performance of their academic discipline. Students apply their learning to professional experiences both in Decatur and around the world. Millikin University's mission is to deliver on the promise of education, preparing students for professional success, democratic citizenship in a global environment, and a personal life of meaning and value.
To receive full consideration, please submit: 1) letter of application; 2) curriculum vitae; 3) teaching philosophy; 3) vision statement for the symphony orchestra as artistic and educational enterprises; 4) names and contact information of at least three professional references; and 6) video recordings of recent performances demonstrating both conducting and applied instrument performance (as links). All materials must be submitted electronically at www.millikin.edu/employment. Candidates should be prepared to submit additional materials upon request.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. As part of the interview process, finalists will be invited to guest conduct a MDSO concert during the 2025-2026 academic year. Offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of background check. Millikin University is an equal opportunity employer. Beyond meeting fully its legal obligations for non-discrimination, Millikin University is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where members from all backgrounds can live, learn, and thrive.