"Visiting Instructor and Jazz Ensembles Director - Full Time"

Position Overview

• Teach 6 course equivalents over the academic year. Typically, 3 in the Fall and 3 in the Spring. Two of the sections in Fall and/or Spring may be the same course. Primary teaching responsibilities will include: Gustavus Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Lab Collective, and America's Music (a core music major course).
• Help cultivate a welcoming community where everyone feels a sense of belonging. We strive to foster an environment where people can be themselves, build community, learn, and grow.

Why Teach at Gustavus?

• Elevate your teaching. Take advantage of opportunities to join a teaching circle, participate in workshops, apply for an internal teaching development grant, and engage in conversations about teaching with colleagues across campus.
• Develop professional skills by participating in faculty meetings and committees, attending faculty development days, and taking advantage of the College's membership to the National Center for Faculty Development and Diversity (NCFDD).
• Be a part of our community. We offer free parking, exercise classes, and use of library and athletic facilities.

Prerequisites

What We're Looking For

• MA or MM in Music (or a related field) (DMA or PhD preferred)
• Demonstrated knowledge of jazz ensemble rehearsal techniques and jazz repertoire
• Demonstrated knowledge of American music history

What's Preferred

• Evidence of effectiveness in teaching
• Demonstrated commitment to undergraduate students
• Demonstrated commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds and identities
• Prior experience directing jazz big bands and working with developing improvisors
• Prior experience teaching American music history

How to Apply

To apply, visit https://gustavus.edu/jobs/ and complete the online application. The documents that must be uploaded include the following:

• Letter of application that addresses the position qualifications
• Curriculum vitae
• A brief (one page) statement of teaching philosophy
• Transcripts (scanned copies acceptable)
• The names and contact information for three professional references (at least one must be able to address teaching experience and teaching effectiveness; please indicate the teaching reference in your letter of application). Please do not ask references to submit letters of recommendation; the committee will conduct reference checks by phone.

For full consideration, applications must be received by March 9, 2026. While applications may be accepted after this date, it is not guaranteed that they will be considered. At this time, please only upload the required documents listed above; finalists will be asked to submit rehearsal and performance video as requested. Incomplete applications will not be considered by the search committee.

What We Offer

Based on data from AAUP (American Association of University Professors) and CUPA (College and University Professional Association), we offer a competitive starting salary range of $46,325 to $51,000 for a 9-month academic year. Actual pay will be adjusted based on job-related factors permitted by law, such as experience, training, certifications/licensure, market factors, departmental budgets, and responsibility. In addition, Gustavus provides comprehensive benefits designed to support your personal and financial well-being, including:

• Medical insurance (which includes access to Nice Healthcare) as well as dental, vision, and life insurance
• Workplace accommodations for physical or mental health concerns
• Access to mental health apps
• Onsite health services
• Paid parental leave (after one year of employment)
• Employer contribution to retirement savings plan (after one year of employment)
• Tuition scholarships for dependents
• Tuition benefit plan for employees and spouse

Institution Information

Gustavus Adolphus College is one of the nation's leading private liberal arts colleges serving 1,800 students, where faculty help equip students to lead purposeful lives and to act on the great challenges of our time. The College aspires to be a community of persons from diverse backgrounds who respect and affirm the dignity of all people. Gustavus is located on a scenic 340-acre hill in St. Peter, Minnesota, and within a short drive to the Minneapolis/Saint Paul and Mankato metro areas. Learn more at https://gustavus.edu/about/administrative-offices/provost/prospective-faculty-provost.

Department Information

The Department of Music at Gustavus Adolphus College offers students the opportunity to study music within a liberal arts framework. With a Bachelor of Arts in Music or Music Education, students engage in coursework across performance, pedagogy, and music analysis. The department features numerous ensembles, including the Gustavus Choir, Wind Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, and Jazz Ensemble, which tour nationally and internationally. Annual highlights include Christmas in Christ Chapel, involving over 350 student musicians, and the Gustavus Artist Series, which brings renowned performers to campus. With over 240 concerts and recitals each year, the department fosters a vibrant musical community. Learn more at https://gustavus.edu/music/.