Visiting Assistant Professor of Music in Theory and Composition

Whitman College; Walla Walla (WA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Whitman College in Walla Walla, WA, is hiring a Visiting Assistant Professor of Music with a focus on Theory and Composition starting August 2026. Candidates should hold a terminal degree in a relevant field and demonstrate a commitment to a student-centered teaching philosophy. The role involves teaching music theory and composition courses while fostering a diverse, collaborative environment for students. This one-year position offers the opportunity to engage in an innovative music curriculum.

Qualifications

• Must have expertise in Music Theory and Composition.
• Experience in guiding students in music majors.
• Strong collaborative skills required.

Responsibilities

• Offer courses in music theory and composition.
• Guide theory and composition majors.
• Maintain a student-centered teaching environment.

Skills

Student-centered teaching

Collaboration

Engagement with music theory

Interdisciplinary approaches

Guidance for music majors and non-majors

Education

Terminal degree in music theory, composition, or related field

Job description

Visiting Assistant Professor of Music – Theory and Composition

Location: Walla Walla, WA

Open Date: April 3, 2026

Job Description: Located in the vibrant community of Walla Walla, WA, Whitman College offers a diverse and supportive environment for its approximately 1,500 students. The Department of Music is seeking a candidate for a one-year position in Music, with expertise in Theory and Composition, at the rank of Visiting Assistant Professor, beginning August 2026. A completed terminal degree in music theory, composition, or a related field is required for this rank; candidates without a completed terminal degree will be considered for the rank of Visiting Instructor. The person will offer courses in music theory (with an aural skills component) and composition. Responsibilities include guiding theory and composition majors, including participation in senior assessments, and maintaining a student‑centered teaching environment.

Ideal Candidate

• Prioritize a student-centered teaching environment for majors and non-majors.
• Work with openness and generosity in a highly collaborative departmental environment.
• Engage with music theory in its broadest sense, incorporating recent trends and interdisciplinary approaches.
• Engage with composition through a variety of modes and lenses (e.g., intersectional, electronic, computer, acoustic, film, installation).
• Guide students to connect their own interests and backgrounds with creating music, working across style, genre, cultural tradition, and multiple modes of inquiry.
• Contribute to the faculty's collective efforts to diversify the curriculum.