What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Professor; Athletic Band Director position at The University of Louisiana at Monroe?
Job Summary
The Director of Athletic Bands serves as a key faculty member within the School of Visual and Performing Arts and provides artistic, administrative, and educational leadership for all athletic band activities at the University of Louisiana Monroe. This position is responsible for directing the “Sound of Today” Marching Band, overseeing the Basketball Pep Band, conducting the ULM Symphonic Band (2nd concert band), and contributing to the broader mission of the music program through teaching, recruitment, and student mentorship.
The Director of Athletic Bands works in close collaboration with the Director of Bands, Percussion coordinator, athletic department, and university leadership to ensure a high-quality, visible, and student-centered band program that supports both the artistic and institutional goals of the university.
Duties and Responsibilities
This is a full-time, nine-month, tenure-track position with possible additional compensation for summer duties and graduate teaching responsibilities.
Marching Band Leadership
- Serve as Director of the Sound of Today Marching Band, including all aspects of planning, instruction, and performance.
- Design and implement marching band shows, including music selection, drill design coordination, and visual presentation.
- Lead rehearsals, game day performances, and appearances at university and community events.
- Maintain a culture of excellence, discipline, and student engagement within the ensemble.
Basketball Pep Band Oversight
- Organize and supervise the Basketball Pep Band for all assigned men’s and women’s games and postseason appearances.
- Coordinate student participation, music preparation, and logistical planning.
- Ensure a strong and consistent presence that supports university athletics and enhances the game-day environment.
Graduate Assistant Supervision
- Recruit, train, and supervise graduate assistants assigned to athletic bands.
- Delegate responsibilities effectively while providing mentorship and professional development.
- Ensure alignment between graduate assistant duties and program goals.
Teaching and Academic Responsibilities
- Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in Music Education based on departmental needs.
- Contribute to curriculum development, particularly in areas related to band pedagogy, marching techniques, and rehearsal methods.
- Advise and mentor students based on the needs of the department.
Recruitment and Retention
- Actively recruit prospective students for the band program and the School of Visual and Performing Arts.
- Maintain strong relationships with regional high school band directors and music programs.
- Support retention efforts by fostering a positive and engaging student experience.
Administrative and Operational Duties
- Manage budgets related to athletic bands, including travel, equipment, and operations.
- Coordinate logistics for travel, uniforms, instruments, and equipment.
- Work collaboratively with the athletic department to ensure alignment on scheduling, expectations, and performance standards.
Collaboration and Service
- Collaborate with faculty, staff, and administration within the School of Visual and Performing Arts.
- Support broader band outreach initiatives with the Director of Bands
- Participate in faculty meetings, committees, and university service as assigned.
- Represent the university and the band program in community and professional settings.
Minimum Qualifications
.Master’s degree in Music, Music Education, or a closely related field (Doctorate necessary for tenure-track position)
- Demonstrated success directing a collegiate or high-level secondary marching band program.
- Experience teaching in music education or band settings.
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Doctoral degree in Music, Music Education, or conducting.
- Experience working in a university setting with athletic bands.
- Record of successful student recruitment and program growth.
- Evidence of effective collaboration with athletics and university stakeholders.
Supplemental Information
Documents
Please send the following with applications:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter
- List of 3 references
- Links to Rehearsals/Performances/Drill Designs/Arrangements