"Assistant/Associate Professor of Instrumental Music/Director of Bands"

Job Details

CLAFLIN UNIVERSITY,  founded in 1869, is becoming recognized as one of the leading institutions of higher education in the southeast. With rigorous student-focused academic programs and a faculty comprised of world-class scholars, these attributes have contributed to the U.S. News and World Report ranking Claflin thirteenth in its 2025 list of the nation's top historically black colleges/universities (HBCU's).

DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC: The Claflin University Department of Music is a institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). The department is also accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). As a degree-granting department, we offer two major programs of study: BA in Music Education and BA in Music and a jazz studies concentration.

RESPONSIBILITY: Develop and implement a long-term strategic plan for the growth and visibility of the band/instrumental program, conduct or supervise all instrumental ensembles but not Jazz ensembles, advise students, teaching instrumental methods classes, supervision of student teachers, and other undergraduate courses in music education. Additional teaching responsibilities may include include other courses within the candidate’s areas of expertise. Engage actively in fundraising, budgeting, procurement and development efforts. Membership and participation in local and state professional organizations. In addition, the Director of Bands is expected to participate fully in departmental and community performance obligations consistent with all ensemble conducting appointments. The candidate is expected to participate fully in departmental recruitment, advising/mentoring activities, promoting the Department within the state, nationally and internationally and must be effective in fulfilling committee service, grantsmanship, and expected to be significantly active in creative and/or research activities consistent with all faculty appointments. Pursue scholarly, creative, or professional activity consistent with the university expectations. Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATION: A graduate degree in instrumental music education/instrumental performance is required; ABD candidates with planned completion dates by August 15, 2026, will be considered a completed doctorate is required for tenure-track appointment and rank of Assistant Professor. Candidate should have a research agenda headed toward tenure and promotion. Additionally, a valid teaching certification in Music Education with a minimum of 3 years of successful teaching within K-12 schools as a certified teacher is required. Understanding of certification/licensure process. Candidate should have a strong background in the study, performance and teaching of instrumental music and proven ability in recruiting for, developing, and maintaining a high-quality Wind Ensemble/Instrumental music program. Candidate must have the ability to build and maintain professional relationships and to work collaboratively with public school band programs and the ability to teach, advise and mentor students from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds. Membership with South Carolina music education association and familiarity with the South Carolina educational standards and regional band programs. Experience with recruitment and retention of varied student populations, knowledge about using AI and or modern technologies in vocal music; Experience with innovative and engaging teaching strategies that will focus on the needs of 21 century students and a demonstrated capacity as an instrumental ensemble director at the university level. Full-time university teaching experience is preferred.

SALARY: Salary and rank commensurate with qualifications and experience.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: The School of Humanities and Social Sciences invites applicants to submit the following materials through the Claflin University Job Opportunities website.

• A completed Claflin University Application (available on the University’s website)
• A letter of application outlining qualifications, including a statement of creative practice
• A statement of teaching philosophy and a brief explanation of your interest in teaching at Claflin University
• A current curriculum vitae or résumé
• A sample of completed or in-progress creative work
• Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, including degrees earned, studies completed, or certificates awarded (official transcripts will be required upon hire)
• Three current letters of recommendation

* Addresses, telephone numbers, and email contact information for at least five professional references will be requested at a later stage in the process.

Individuals with disabilities who require accommodations during the application process should contact the Office of Human Resources prior to the closing date at 803-535-5635 or TDD 1-800-735-8583.

Equal Opportunity Employer