Assistant Professor of Composition

Stanford University; Palo Alto (CA); On-site; USD 115,133 - 135,388; Full time

Job summary

Stanford University is seeking a tenure-track composer at the rank of Assistant Professor to start on September 1, 2027. The ideal candidate will be a creative individual with expertise in composition and a commitment to quality instruction for diverse students.

The role includes teaching courses mainly in composition and analysis and supervising research. Applicants must hold a DMA or PhD in Composition or a closely related field. The expected pay range for this position is $115,133 – $135,388.

Qualifications

• Commitment to high-quality undergraduate and graduate instruction.
• Ability to teach courses in composition, analysis, and other areas of expertise.

Responsibilities

• Teach primarily in composition and analysis at undergraduate and graduate levels.
• Supervise individual composition research.
• Collaborate with colleagues in various music disciplines.

Skills

Creative composition

Teaching and mentoring

Collaborative interaction

Music theory expertise

Education

DMA or PhD in Composition or related field

Job description

The Department of Music at Stanford University invites applications for a tenure‑track composer at the rank of Assistant Professor. The envisaged starting date is September 1, 2027.

We are searching for a creative and innovative composer who will show every promise of attaining professional distinction. The successful candidate must have a commitment to high‑quality undergraduate and graduate instruction, and ability or potential in teaching and mentoring a diverse student body.

Candidates should have an interest and expertise in one or more additional areas of performance and/or research, including, but not limited to, theory within or beyond the traditions of Western art music, music performance, and computer music. The successful applicant will also have demonstrated interests that afford effective interactions with a broad range of colleagues. Teaching responsibilities will involve courses primarily in composition and analysis, at both undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as the supervision of individual composition research. Courses may also be taught in the candidate's additional areas of expertise.

To be considered, applicants must hold a DMA or PhD in Composition or a closely related field, or demonstrate equivalent professional distinction.

Letters of application should be received on or before October 1, 2026, and must include the following:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae
• List of works and performances
• Three to five letters of reference

Additional supporting materials will be requested at a later date. Please do NOT send scores or recordings at this stage of the search.

The expected base pay range for this position is $115,133 – $135,388.

Stanford University has provided a pay range representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for the position upon hire. The pay offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors including (but not limited to) the qualifications of the selected candidate, budget availability, and internal equity.

The application process will close on October 1, 2026.

Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Stanford welcomes applications from all who would bring additional dimensions to the University’s research, teaching and clinical missions.

Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact [e-mail].