Music- Artist-Teacher of Percussion - Fall 2026

Job Details

Appointment Type: Temporary/Contractual

Bargaining Unit: AFT

Employment Type: Part-time

Expected Term: August 25, 2026 - December 12, 2026

Compensation: $2,545.00 per Faculty Weighted Hours (FWH)

About TCNJ

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) is a highly selective institution that is consistently recognized as one of the top comprehensive colleges in the nation. Founded in 1855 as the New Jersey State Normal School, TCNJ maintains the eighth highest four-year graduation rate among all public colleges and universities. It is ranked by Money as one of the top 15 public colleges “most likely to pay off financially,” and U.S. News & World Report rates it the No. 1 public institution among regional universities in the northeast.

Position Overview:

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) Department of Music invites applications for adjunct (part-time) artist-teachers of percussion. The successful candidate will teach weekly private lessons beginning in the Fall 2026 semester, which starts on August 25, 2026. The per-semester contract may be renewable. Candidates with expertise/experience in classical and/or jazz and/or non-Western traditions are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities:

• Give weekly in-person private lessons (for both music majors, minors, and non-music majors) on TCNJ's campus (Ewing, NJ) at mutually agreed dates between the instructor and the students, following the College's academic calendar, i.e., leading 14 weekly in-person lessons per semester.
• Provide course syllabi, and submit course audits, mid-term, and final grades in a timely manner.
• Facilitate and attend percussion jury exams each semester during the final exam week.
• Attend degree recitals of students in the percussion studio.
• Participate in entrance auditions of prospective students.
• Additional teaching opportunities, including percussion ensemble and percussion methods, may be available depending on the departmental needs and candidate's expertise and availability.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Earned MM degree in percussion performance or advanced degree in music with relevant professional and artistic experience.
• Private studio teaching experience with various levels and abilities, including collegiate-level instruction (including as a TA).
• Proven record of high-level artistry and performance experience in solo, chamber, and/or ensemble settings.
• Experience with planning, programming, and coaching undergraduate degree recitals.
• The availability to teach weekly in-person (Ewing, NJ) during the semester.
• Outstanding organizational and interpersonal skills, including timely communication via email.

Preferred:

• Earned Doctorate or ABD in percussion performance or related field.
• Familiarity with K-12 teaching and/or instrumental pedagogy.
• High visibility in and beyond the mid-Atlantic region.
• Demonstrable commitment to student recruitment and growth and stability of the percussion studio.
• Experience and interest in directing a percussion ensemble and/or teaching a percussion methods course.
• Expertise/experience in classical and/or jazz and/or non-Western traditions.

Persons with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations in order to perform the essential functions of the position. If the requested accommodation(s) cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, the applicant may not be eligible for the position.

Employer Qualifications

Employment at TCNJ is contingent upon the successful completion of an applicable background check, reference checks, and verification of identity and authorization to work in the United States (Form I-9).

Accommodation: Applicants who require a reasonable accommodation to apply or interview should contact hr@tcnj.edu.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should apply online and submit in PDF format: 1) a letter of application, 2) a current curriculum vitae, 3) contact information for a minimum of 3 current references who are familiar with the candidate's work in educational contexts. Only electronic submissions via TCNJ's website will be reviewed. Please do not email any documents or additional materials (recordings, teaching demos, etc.) unless requested. An initial review of applications will begin April 20. A final offer of employment is contingent upon completion of background and reference checks. Please note that there will be no working visa support attached to this position; the successful applicant must present proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

Questions

Further questions about the position may be directed to Dr. Tomoko Kanamaru. Department of Music Search Committee Chairperson at kanamaru@tcnj.edu. For any questions or issues with the Taleo online application system, including uploading materials, please contact TCNJ Office of Human Resources at hr@tcnj.edu.

The College is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus community that respects and uplifts individuals from all backgrounds. We value the varied perspectives, experiences, and talents of all members of our community and strive to create an environment where everyone has equitable access to opportunities for success. As an equal opportunity employer, we comply with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. We encourage applications from individuals whose lived experiences and professional interests align with our institutional mission of academic excellence, access, and integrity.