Director of Vocal Ensemble

The Conservatory of Music at Oberlin College invites applications for a two-year, full-time visiting faculty position as Director of Vocal Ensembles for the 2021-22 and 2022-23 academic years.

Oberlin’s Vocal Studies Division embraces a team approach to educating gifted undergraduate singers, and the Director of Vocal Ensembles works collaboratively with voice faculty, pianists, conductors and members of the Division.

The Oberlin College Conservatory of Music, founded in 1865, is the nation’s oldest continuously operating conservatory, and the only major music school in the country linked with a preeminent liberal arts college. Students are enrolled in undergraduate programs leading to the Bachelor of Music in performance, composition, electronic and computer music, jazz, music history, and historical performance. The Conservatory also offers Performance and Artist Diplomas in performance areas, an Artist Diploma in Piano Technology, and a postgraduate program in Recording and Audio Production.

The Vocal Studies Division, which includes members of the Voice and Opera departments, Conducting and Ensembles Division, and Keyboard Studies Division, specializes in training undergraduate singers through private voice instruction, opera productions, choral ensembles, and vocal coaching. Previous graduates enjoy distinguished careers, winning major competitions and appearing regularly in the world’s most important venues. Interested students also have the opportunity to engage in Oberlin’s legacy of excellence in music education and social justice by taking classes in the Division of Pedagogy, Advocacy, and Community Engagement (PACE).

Responsibilities:

●Lead a dynamic program of vocal ensembles for voice majors, Conservatory students, College students, and the broader Oberlin community;
●Conduct the Oberlin College Choir, Musical Union, and Chamber Singers;
●Actively recruit for ensembles within Oberlin’s student population and beyond as appropriate.
●Teach courses in advanced choral conducting and mentor students pursuing advanced study in choral conducting;
●Participate as an active member of the Vocal Studies Division through departmental service and attendance at Division events and performances.

Qualifications:

●DMA in choral conducting or comparable professional experience;
●Background in vocal performance and a demonstrated understanding of vocal health issues;
●Experience teaching at the college/university level;
●Excellent communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with fellow conductors and members of the Vocal Studies Division;
●Experience conducting instrumental ensembles;
●Understanding of and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, and the mission of Oberlin College.

Submit a letter of interest, curriculum vitae and contact information for three references online.

Additionally, please provide links to rehearsal and performance conducting videos, a link to a brief video of yourself answering the question, “What is the value of vocal ensemble experience in an undergraduate, conservatory voice degree?” and provide a brief statement of diversity, equity and inclusion as related to developing and teaching choral ensembles.

Review of applications will begin on May 21, 2021 and continue until position is filled. Those received after that date may be considered until the position is filled.

All applicants should apply through the Oberlin College jobs portal.