The Department of Music is made up of ~25 faculty/artist teachers and over 150 music majors and minors. The department presents over 150 musical performances for the public each year. In addition, several of the major performing ensembles within the department travel throughout Georgia, the Southeast and abroad, perform for schools, civic groups, and as part of community concert series. The Department of Music recently expanded into Powell Hall, a newly renovated, historically preserved, state-of-the-art music facility; featuring new administrative offices, a stunning 200-seat recital hall, faculty studios, rehearsal studios, and practice rooms. VSU is a fully accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music. For more information: https://www.valdosta.edu/music
Review of completed applications will begin July 10, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. For more information contact Dr. Laurel Yu, Interim Department Head, via email lsyu@valdosta.edu or phone 229-333-5804.
Applicants must submit the following:
- CV
- Cover Letter
- Transcripts (unofficial)
- 10-15 minutes of recent rehearsal conducting footage with the camera facing the front side of conductor.
- List of references (3-5)
Applicants are encouraged to include the following optional materials:
- Links to video of recent drill design examples
- Score and audio of pep band or marching band arrangements
- 10-15 minutes of recent instructional teaching in a marching band setting
Responsibilities
The position will serve as the Interim Assistant Director of Bands and Interim Director of Athletic Bands and be responsible for directing the VSU Blazin' Brigade Marching Band, VSU Hot Shots Pep Band, and the conductor of the VSU Concert Band as well as other courses according to requisite skills. Faculty may also be responsible for managing budget related to marching band, drill design and arranging, and student teacher observations. The Director of Athletic Bands works closely with organizations across our campus including Athletics, Student Life, as well as other spirit organizations. The successful candidate should be student-centered, energetic, and collaborative with experience teaching band at both the collegiate and secondary level; with demonstrated success in recruiting and ensemble retention; and experience organizing and planning events and performances for a wide range of campus stakeholders.
Other duties include but are not limited to:
- Teaching undergraduate and graduate Concert Band and Marching Band courses;
- Teach graduate courses in the MAT Education program such as Instrumental Music Curriculum;
- Maintaining an active regional, national, and international presence in the field;
- Additional teaching duties may be expected based on qualifications and departmental needs;
- Faculty members are expected to make contributions to the Department including department, university, and community service.
- Other duties as assigned.
Typical Allocation of Duties:
Teaching and Service - 100%
Teaches classes and meets assigned service obligations.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of MM or equivalent in music completed by appointment date
- Evidence of accomplishment as a marching band director and Wind Band conductor
- P-12 school teaching experience
- Knowledge of online/hybrid teaching and Learning Management Systems
- Demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching and learning
Preferred Qualifications
- DMA or equivalent in music or music education
- Proven record of success as a music instructor and a record demonstrating a desire and ability to recruit
- College teaching experience
- Commitment to fostering a collaborative environment and actively participating in departmental affairs
- Ability to teach in additional areas of Music
- A record of mentoring students
Proposed Salary
Commensurate with experience.