"Assistant Professor of Practice, French Horn"

Company: Virginia Tech

Job Location: Blacksburg, 24061

Category: Music

Type: Full-Time

Job Description

The School of Performing Arts seeks an Assistant Professor of Practice in Music with primary responsibility for teaching and developing the applied French Horn studio. The initial contract, effective August 10, 2026, will be for a three-year term, renewable per university and school policies.

The successful candidate will teach applied horn lessons, build and sustain a vibrant studio, coach chamber ensembles, and contribute to performance-area activities including juries, auditions, and student recitals. In addition, the faculty member will lead a secondary area aligned with the candidate's expertise and departmental need; this may include teaching courses in Music Business and Music Industry, Music Technology, or Music Theory. The position supports recruitment and outreach, student mentorship, and collaboration across the School and College.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Teach applied French Horn at the undergraduate (and, as appropriate, graduate) level; organize studio classes; prepare students for juries, auditions, and degree recitals.
• Coach brass chamber ensembles and collaborate with music performance faculty and conductors on performance activities.
• Contribute substantively to one of the following areas:
  • Music Business and Music Industry
  • Music Technology
  • Music Theory
• Develop and deliver courses that connect performance training with industry-relevant skills.
• Advise and mentor students, support recruitment and audition processes, and engage in outreach that strengthens the brass area and the School's profile.
• Contribute to School, College, and University service; collaborate with colleagues across the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design and campus partners where appropriate.

About the School of Performing Arts and the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design

The Music program in the School of Performing Arts offers comprehensive degree pathways and performance opportunities that integrate traditional training with contemporary, career-centered experiences. Faculty collaborate across the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design to support student learning and creative work.

Required Qualifications

• Terminal degree in music or a closely related field (e.g., D.M.A. or equivalent) by the start date, or evidence of distinguished professional stature in horn performance and pedagogy.
• Demonstrated excellence in applied horn teaching and studio development.
• Ability to teach in at least one secondary area (Music Business and Music Industry, Music Technology, or Music Theory).

Preferred Qualifications

• Success in recruiting and retaining applied horn students and in coaching chamber ensembles.
• Experience designing curricula and courses in Music Business and Music Industry, Music Technology, or Music Theory; familiarity with contemporary industry practices and tools where relevant.
• Credential or degree in the candidate's secondary area.
• Record of collaborative engagement across arts and allied fields; experience contributing to audition and portfolio processes.
• Commitment to working effectively with learners from a variety of backgrounds.

Application Materials

For full consideration, interested applicants are required to submit the following:

• Cover letter describing qualifications for the applied horn studio and secondary teaching area.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Teaching statement (maximum of two pages) and optional supporting evidence (e.g., sample syllabi, list of student successes).
• Links to recent performances provided as unlisted YouTube links.
• A one-page personal statement of teaching philosophy including the candidate's ideas for supporting an educational environment consistent with the Virginia Tech Principles of Community.
• Names and contact information for three references.

Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type
Regular

Salary Information
Salary range is $58,000 - $63,000 per year

Hours per week
40+

Review Date
February 15, 2026

Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Julie Weaver at juliew19@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Apply Now