What are the responsibilities and job description for the Visiting Choral Artist in Residence at the Assistant Professor level position at Shenandoah University?
Shenandoah Conservatory at Shenandoah University invites applications for a one-year Visiting Choral Artist in Residence at the Assistant Professor level for the 2026–2027 academic year. This full-time (9-month) benefited position, located on the University’s main campus in Winchester, Virginia, will begin in August 2026.
Beyond directing the Conservatory Choir, the chosen candidate will teach choral conducting across levels, work with choral colleagues to further elevate the choral culture at Shenandoah Conservatory and recruit to the Conservatory, and help to advance the Conservatory’s reputation as a premier and innovative place of study where artists from diverse backgrounds actively engage around innovative and collaborative work. Specifically, the desired candidate will.
- Administer the choral area, direct Conservatory Choir, teach undergraduate courses in conducting and guide masters and doctoral conducting study;
- Collaborate with the Coordinator of Vocal Performance to maintain a cohesive and collegial Vocal Choral Division;
- Actively participate in faculty meetings, auditions, and recruitment activities; and
- Teach specialized courses in areas of expertise.
Other Responsibilities include:
- Teach at least 12 credit hours per semester of undergraduate and/or graduate courses in Choral Arts, Conducting, and/or Music as needed
- Develop and update course curricula, including syllabi, lectures, and assignments
- Advise and mentor students on academic and career paths
- Engage in scholarly or creative activities, which may include research, publications, presentations, or artistic productions
- Participate in departmental, college, and university service, such as committee work, program development, and student recruitment
- Administer the choral area, direct Conservatory Choir, teach undergraduate courses in conducting and guide masters and doctoral conducting study
- Collaborate with the Coordinator of Vocal Performance to maintain a cohesive and collegial Vocal Choral Division
- Actively participate in faculty meetings, auditions, and recruitment activities
- Teach specialized courses in areas of expertise
Shenandoah Conservatory Choir, one of four choral ensembles within the Conservatory, has attained a singular profile during the past few decades. Accomplishments include performances under numerous international conductors such as Leonard Bernstein and Mstislav Rostropovich, a tradition of international performance tours to major European performance venues, the receipt of a Grammy award, and involvement in world premieres of major choral works (including Sir John Tavener’s final compositions). The Conservatory is planning to launch a nationwide search in 2026-27 for a permanent director to continue the tradition of excellence in choral arts - a position to which the 1-year visiting candidate will be welcomed to apply.
About Shenandoah Conservatory and University:
Shenandoah Conservatory was founded in 1875 and is located at the head of the historic Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, VA, 70 miles west of Washington DC. Over 650 students are enrolled in baccalaureate, masters and doctoral curricula in the areas of music, theater and dance, and are taught by a dynamic and diverse faculty of over 125, half of whom are full-time. https://www.su.edu/conservatory/
Shenandoah University is a diverse institution of approximately 4,000 students enrolled in baccalaureate, masters and doctoral curricula in business, arts and sciences, health professions and performing arts. Shenandoah University is an independent, coeducational institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. www.su.edu.
Required Skills
Required qualifications and skills:
- A terminal degree in choral conducting or professional equivalent.
- A record of successful teaching at the collegiate level.
- A passion for teaching and an orientation to innovation in pedagogy.
- A mindfulness for student well-being and ability to contribute to the
- Conservatory's commitment to Belonging.
- A thoughtful orientation toward collaborative work.
How to Apply:
The Complete application submissions will include a letter of intent, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is selected.
Shenandoah University is committed to enriching its educational experience and culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration, and staff. All candidates are strongly encouraged to include a statement in their cover letters addressing ways in which they may be able to contribute to that commitment.
**Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire.
**Authorized to work in the United States is a pre-condition of employment. At this time, Shenandoah University is not in a position to sponsor international visas.
Shenandoah University values individuals and communities' unique and diverse perspectives locally and globally. It seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic or national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.