The Department of Music at Swarthmore College invites applications for a full-time, one-year appointment as Visiting Assistant Professor of Music Theory beginning in August 2024. The successful candidate will demonstrate creativity and excellence in music theory pedagogy, an interest in undergraduate teaching and mentorship in a liberal arts environment, and dedication to teaching within a diverse community. Candidates should have a PhD or ABD status in Music Theory or a related field.
The Department of Music at Swarthmore College is a vibrant community of performers, creators, and critical thinkers who share a passion for music. The core music faculty currently represent the disciplines of composition, ethnomusicology, historical musicology, music theory, and performance. We have seven faculty-led department ensembles (Chorus, Chinese Music Ensemble, Gamelan, Jazz, Orchestra, Taiko, and Wind Ensemble), in addition to robust programs for private lessons and chamber music. We are housed in the newly renovated Lang Music Building, which includes an acoustically stunning concert hall and the Underhill Music and Dance Library. Our students are often active in many other fields across campus and the wealth of interests and curiosity they bring to music fosters a fresh and exciting atmosphere. Additional information about the Department of Music can be found at https://www.swarthmore.edu/music.
Located in the suburbs of Philadelphia and near Wilmington DE, Swarthmore College is a highly selective liberal arts college whose mission combines academic rigor with social responsibility. Swarthmore has a strong institutional commitment to diversity, and actively seeks and welcomes applications from candidates with exceptional qualifications, particularly those with demonstrable commitments to a more inclusive society and world. Applicants from traditionally underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information on Faculty Diversity and Excellence at Swarthmore, see http://www.swarthmore.edu/faculty-diversity-excellence/information-candidates-new-faculty
The position will require the candidate to teach a total of four classes: two sections of our first semester music theory course (Fall 2024), one section of our second semester theory (Spring 2025), and one upper level undergraduate theory course (Spring 2025) in a topic that aligns with the candidate’s expertise and departmental needs. The courses should embrace an interdisciplinary liberal arts approach with attention to small classroom learning environments. This appointment is a full-time position with responsibilities that also include support for advanced students in Music who are completing their senior comprehensive projects.
PhD or ABD status in Music Theory or a related field.
Applications should include (1) a cover letter, (2) a 1-page statement addressing teaching philosophy and possible upper level course(s) that could be offered, (3) a current CV, and (4) email addresses for three references who are prepared to submit confidential letters of recommendation at a later stage in the search process. All documents should be submitted online at apply.interfolio.com/144998.
Review of applications will begin May 6, 2024 and continue until the position is filled. The search committee will hold online interviews in mid-May and invite select candidates to campus in late May/early June for teaching demonstrations.
Questions regarding this position may be directed to Lei Ouyang, Chair of the Department of Music, at louyang1@swarthmore.edu. Application questions may be directed to Colette Speakman, Administrative Coordinator of Music, at music@swarthmore.edu.