What are the responsibilities and job description for the Tenure position at Slippery Rock University?
The Music Department at Slippery Rock University invites applications for an inspiring and collaborative Director of Bands to lead a vibrant and growing instrumental program. Primary duties include conducting the Wind Ensemble (Fall and Spring), Marching Band (Fall), and Concert Band (Spring). As a teaching institution, faculty teach twelve credits per semester; the remaining workload will consist of teaching instrumental methods courses, observing preservice music educators in the field, and other departmental courses based on the candidate’s expertise and the department’s needs.
We seek a dynamic musician and student-centered educator who combines artistry, leadership, and innovation in music education. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellence in rehearsal techniques, ensemble performance, and student mentorship; foster a culture of musical excellence, inclusion, and community; and bring creative approaches to developing 21st-century band programs that reflect diverse musical traditions and practices. We seek a colleague who values collaboration across all areas of the department and is dedicated to mentoring students (both majors and non-majors who participate in ensembles) as reflective, skilled, and compassionate musicians and/or educators/aspiring professionals.
Slippery Rock University has an impressive record of success with stable enrollments, strong programs, as well as a unionized and collaborative faculty: we enroll some 8600 students, and the Department of Music is one of the largest of those within the College of Liberal Arts. Located in a rural small town just an hour north of Pittsburgh, our campus is safe, inviting, and blessed with up-to-date facilities that enrich our programs and help sustain our high student retention and graduation rates. Our four nationally-accredited programs in the fine and performing arts collectively have one of the highest enrollments in the entire institution, and within the past five years, we opened newly-renovated facilities for the performing arts that help boost opportunities for students as well as our record of robust success.
Minimum Qualifications
Doctoral degree in Conducting (ABD considered but the degree MUST be completed by August 3, 2026).
Successful experience directing a marching band program.
Demonstrated success in recruiting students
Demonstrated success in retaining and mentoring students
Demonstrated success in community engagement through band/music activities
Successful experience in ensemble leadership at the collegiate and/or secondary level
Successful experience directing a marching band program.
Demonstrated success in recruiting students
Demonstrated success in retaining and mentoring students
Demonstrated success in community engagement through band/music activities
Successful experience in ensemble leadership at the collegiate and/or secondary level
Demonstrated collaboration with music faculty, colleagues, and community partners
Demonstrated success in recruitment, retention, and community engagement through band activities.
Successful experience directing a marching band program.
Valid US driver’s license.
Successful performance in an interview.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with diverse repertoire and inclusive programming reflective of multiple musical cultures and traditions.
Demonstrated success in engaging and inspiring students within and beyond the classroom
Commitment to equity, diversity, and access in music performance and education.
K–12 Music Educator Certification and documented public school teaching experience.
Evidence of expertise in music education and experience guiding future music teachers.
Demonstrated success in engaging and inspiring students within and beyond the classroom
Commitment to equity, diversity, and access in music performance and education.
K–12 Music Educator Certification and documented public school teaching experience.
Evidence of expertise in music education and experience guiding future music teachers.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Date
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
No
Respect for Individuals in the Community
Slippery Rock University provides an environment that respects, encourages, and promotes the talents and contributions of all. Slippery Rock University values a community with a shared sense of purpose, where people demonstrate mutual respect and appreciation. Slippery Rock University values diversity that honors and includes all persons regardless of age, creed, disability, ethnic heritage, gender, gender identity, race, religion, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status in academic and extracurricular endeavor, in the working environment, and in the daily life of the university community.
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Slippery Rock University is committed to a policy of affirmative action. Slippery Rock University assures an equal opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, creed, disability, ancestry, national origin, age, gender or veteran’s status in accordance with state and federal laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Graduate and undergraduate transcripts are required for this position: unofficial transcripts or copies of transcripts are acceptable for the application process. Applicants may either upload copies using the “Transcripts” tab under Optional Applicant Documents or mail them the search chair at the address below.
Also required is a video link or similar evidence of directing a marching band program successfully; links to such documentation may be uploaded using the “Other” tab under Optional Applicant documents.
Official transcripts will be required prior to appointment. Recommended candidates will be required to complete criminal background check, including Act 34 Background Check and Act 151 (Child Abuse) Background Check and Federal Criminal (FBI) clearance prior to appointment. The successful candidate will also be required to submit a completed Act 24 form (PDE-6004) prior to employment. Full consideration will be given to applications received by January 31, 2026.
Also required is a video link or similar evidence of directing a marching band program successfully; links to such documentation may be uploaded using the “Other” tab under Optional Applicant documents.
Official transcripts will be required prior to appointment. Recommended candidates will be required to complete criminal background check, including Act 34 Background Check and Act 151 (Child Abuse) Background Check and Federal Criminal (FBI) clearance prior to appointment. The successful candidate will also be required to submit a completed Act 24 form (PDE-6004) prior to employment. Full consideration will be given to applications received by January 31, 2026.