Musical Theatre Assistant Professor – Music Direction

Western Carolina University; Cullowhee (NC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition waivers

Free group exercise classes

Discounted recreation center

Free vaccines on campus

Pre-tax flexible spending accounts

12 paid holidays

Paid community service leave

Training & development programs

Job summary

Western Carolina University’s School of Stage & Screen invites applications for a nine-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre. The candidate should excel in music direction, collaborate with directors and designers, and inspire students toward professional readiness.

The position emphasizes teaching, production, and scholarship, with an expected workload of 60% teaching/production, 20% service, and 20% creative activity. Start date: August 2027.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to teach undergraduate musical theatre courses (musicianship, song study, acting the song, audition prep, vocal coaching, ensembles).
• Ability to sight read and accompany performers on piano in class, auditions and performances.
• Broad knowledge of repertoire, styles, and practices including contemporary commercial music.
• Demonstrated skill in music directing theatrical productions and preparing students for professional rehearsal and performance.

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate musical theatre courses; course releases may be provided for production duties like music direction.
• Engage in production activity, service, and scholarly/creative work.
• Contribute to curriculum development, assessment, recruitment, and program growth.

Skills

Teaching undergraduate musical theatre

Sight-reading & piano accompaniment

Musical theatre repertoire knowledge

Music directing experience

Musicianship development

Collaboration with production teams

Mentoring students

Curriculum development

Diversity and inclusion focus

Education

Terminal degree in Musical Theatre or related field

Master's degree with substantial teaching/industry experience

Job description

Western Carolina University’s School of Stage & Screen invites applications for a nine-month, tenure-track Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre. The candidate should excel in music direction, collaborate with directors and designers, and inspire students toward professional readiness.

The position emphasizes teaching, production, and scholarship, with an expected workload of 60% teaching/production, 20% service, and 20% creative activity. Start date: August 2027.