Visiting Assistant Professor of Music (Instrumental)

POSITION SUMMARY. The Music Studies program at Loras College invites applications for a two-year Visiting Assistant Professor of Music with specialization in instrumental music to begin in August 2026. As a member of the School of Humanities and Education, the ideal candidate will demonstrate excellence in teaching a range of courses for the undergraduate major, including Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble, and courses in the Music Studies curriculum such as Music in the Movies or World Music and Cultures. Candidates will be expected to teach in the general education curriculum and academically advise students. In addition to teaching, service to the College and engagement with scholarship in line with the Boyer Model is strongly desired.

The Music Studies program seeks a highly motivated, personable and innovative candidate to continue developing powerful musical experiences for Loras students and the broader Dubuque community. Familiarity with liturgical music and Catholic Social Teaching is preferred as it relates to programming and events, instruction and course content, as well as the Loras College mission.

This is a non-tenure track position, but a candidate that plays a key role in expanding the Music Studies program will be given strong consideration for an extended contract at the end of the 2-year term.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE. A doctorate degree in music (including candidates that are ABD) from an accredited institution is preferred. A master's degree in music with significant experience will be considered. Additional qualifications include:

• Commitment to the mission and support for the College's Catholic liberal arts tradition
• Experience directing instrumental ensembles at the college or high school level or within the music industry
• Comfortability programming music and events for instrumental ensembles, recruiting students for music ensembles and degrees, collaborating with colleagues and community members, organizing adjunct instruction for applied instrumental lessons and studio classes
• Performance skills and technical knowledge as an instrumentalist

COMPENSATION. Commensurate with qualifications, education, and experience. Additional benefits include medical, dental, life, and disability insurance, flexible spending plan, TIAA retirement plan, tuition remission program, family membership in Graber Sports Center, free admission to many college events and free parking.

SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES AND EDUCATION. The School of Humanities and Education consists of 31 full-time faculty members and offers a variety of pre-professional and liberal arts undergraduate and graduate programs.

THE COLLEGE. Founded in 1839, Loras College is a Catholic, primarily undergraduate, institution that includes pre-professional and liberal arts programs, as well as several graduate programs. The Loras College community embraces the core values of truth, respect, responsibility, excellence, and service that define the way we work, behave, and relate with others. These values align with our college mission: Loras, as a Catholic liberal arts college, creates a community of active learners, reflective thinkers, ethical decision-makers and responsible contributors in diverse professional, social and religious roles. The student body consists of approximately 1,100 students.

THE COMMUNITY. Loras College's 60-acre campus is located on one of Dubuque's highest bluffs that overlooks the Mississippi River at the junction of the states of Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin, about 3 hours west of Chicago. Dubuque's population is approximately 60,000 and its nineteenth-century architecture is woven into limestone bluffs and provides a picturesque backdrop to the river landscape. Many residential and commercial areas have been designated as historical districts to preserve Dubuque's unique heritage. Its strong education base supports numerous cultural activities, and in addition, there are sporting events, shopping facilities, schools, and houses of worship that are convenient to its residents. The climate has marked seasons with a comfortable summer, cool spring and fall, and a winter that encourages a variety of activities that have in recent years attracted a growing tourism industry.

APPLICATION DEADLINE. For best consideration, applications are due by November 21, 2025. Applications must be complete to be considered. For more information contact Dr. Kate McCarthy-Gilmore, Dean of Humanities and Education: kate.mccarthy-gilmore@loras.edu, 563-588-7808.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE. Applicants must go to: http://loras.applicantpool.com/jobs/ to apply. Please upload a cover letter addressing teaching and the mission of the college, a curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information of three references. References will not be contacted without prior approval from the candidate. The finalist will need to pass a background check before receiving a written employment offer.