Assistant Professor of Singer/Songwriter - Clinical Teaching Track in Music and Entertainment Industry Studies

Join the University of Colorado Denver's College of Arts & Media as an Assistant Professor of Singer/Songwriter

Are you a passionate and experienced singer/songwriter looking to inspire the next generation of musicians? Do you have a strong background in music education, performance, and industry expertise? The University of Colorado Denver's College of Arts & Media is seeking a talented Assistant Professor of Singer/Songwriter to join our Department of Music & Entertainment Industry Studies. As a Clinical Teaching Track faculty member, you will have the opportunity to teach undergraduate courses, engage in research and creative work, and contribute to the growth of our Singer/Songwriter program.

About the University of Colorado Denver and the College of Arts & Media

The University of Colorado Denver is a public research university located in the heart of Denver, Colorado. Our College of Arts & Media is a vibrant community of artists, designers, musicians, and scholars who share a passion for creative expression and innovation. Our Department of Music & Entertainment Industry Studies is dedicated to providing students with a comprehensive education in music and entertainment, preparing them for successful careers in the industry.

Job Summary

We are seeking a full-time Assistant Professor of Singer/Songwriter (Clinical Teaching Track) to join our Department of Music & Entertainment Industry Studies. The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching courses related to songwriting, performance, advanced songwriting and production, applied lessons, ensembles, and other music courses as required. The incumbent will also be expected to engage in research, creative work, and service, and contribute to the growth of our Singer/Songwriter program.

Key Responsibilities

• Teach a 3/3 course load (18 total credits per AY) in the following areas:
  • Introduction to songwriting
  • Applied upper division singer/songwriter lessons
  • Popular music arranging & performance
  • Advanced songwriting & production
  • Media placement
  • Performance ensembles
  • Additional music courses as required by the MEIS Department
• Prepare course content, syllabi, lectures, presentations, and student assignments
• Evaluate student work and track student attendance and engagement
• Provide student advisement and manage courses in the online platform Canvas
• Engage in research, creative work, and service, including:
  • Publications
  • Recordings
  • Performances
  • Multimedia
  • Professional development
• Contribute to the function and operations of the department, as defined by the department chair
• Work with the broader community in representing the university, department, and students

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's degree in Music or related advanced degree
• Or substitution of tested experience for the Master's:
  • Recording with a reputable national/international label (corresponding review from a national media outlet)
  • Extensive experience as a performer/composer/arranger with a national or international reputation (corresponding review from a national/international media outlet)
  • Representation with a reputable national/international artist management company
  • Evidence of a national/international tour/festival (corresponding review from a national media outlet)
  • Evidence of song published/performed by a major artist/publishing/media outlet (i.e. film or TV show) or company
  • Five years successful experience teaching at a major university or college in same or similar program
• Industry credits with demonstrated national presence, excellence, and accomplishment as a Songwriter, plus Performer (Singer/Instrumentalist) and/or Producer
• Experience that shows diversity, equity, and inclusivity practices, and inclusive pedagogy in teaching and/or creative work

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in licensing, music publishing, and/or media placement
• Three years teaching experience at the college or professionally comparable level
• Experience supporting the ability to use and teach music technology (e.g. DAW recording, software, notation)
• Experience collaborating on cross-disciplinary initiatives

Skills and Competencies

• Proven experience in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with a diverse population at all levels throughout the institution and into the community
• Ability to communicate in a positive and effective manner, across various modalities
• Ability to balance multiple projects and tasks in parallel to maintaining attention to detail
• Ability to create an equitable and positive experiences for all
• Outwardly contribute to a respectful, positive, and professional workspace
• Demonstrated allegiance and influential ability to embrace and advance equity and inclusion
• Ability to establish work priorities, follow through, and meet established deadlines
• Strong judgment and critical thinking skills
• Ability to deliberately listen and communicate relevant information, anticipate problems, and offer suggestions for resolution
• Demonstrated dedication to developing professional relationships with students and alumni
• Demonstrated dedication to mentoring students to realize their potential as artist-citizens
• Commitment to the growth of the Singer/Songwriter emphasis with regard to recruitment, programming, marketing, visibility, and recognition
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusivity practices, and inclusive pedagogy
• Demonstrated excellence and experience in organizational teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills

What We Offer

• Competitive salary range: $60,000 to $65,000 per year
• Comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Disability and life insurance
  • Retirement 401(a) plan with employer contribution
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • ECO Pass: RTD Bus and light rail service
• Tuition benefit for system employees
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment

How to Apply

To apply, please visit our online application portal and attach:

• A letter of application which specifically addresses the job requirements and outlines qualifications
• A current CV/resume
• List of three to five professional references
• Detailed answers to all pre-screening questions within the application

Review of applications will begin after the priority deadline with preference given to complete applications received by January 10, 2024.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Colorado Denver is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty, and administrative staff. We encourage applications from women, ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community, and all veterans.

ADA Statement

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator.

Background Check Statement

The University of Colorado Denver is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students, and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement

The University of Colorado has a requirement for COVID-19 vaccinations and full completion thereof by September 1, 2021, or upon start date. Information regarding this requirement, and exemptions can be found at:

We look forward to receiving your application!