Job Announcement: Assistant Professor, Tenure-Track Director of Choral Activities

Missouri Southern State University (MSSU)

Position: Assistant Professor of Choral Activities

Location: Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, Missouri

Employment Period Starts: August 2025

Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) is seeking a dynamic and experienced choir director to join our Performing Arts faculty as Director of Choral Activities starting August 2025. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead our choral program, provide artistic direction, mentorship, and musical inspiration to our talented, hard-working students. We are committed to building a strong and diverse faculty, and we welcome candidates who are interested in pursuing long-term academic careers in choral music education and performance.

This position requires a demonstrated commitment to teaching excellence and advising at the undergraduate level, a doctorate in music (choral conducting, preferred); however, ABD candidates will be considered.

Application Procedure:

Interested candidates should submit the following materials by visiting www.mssu.edu/jobs:

• Cover letter addressing qualifications and interest in the position.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) detailing relevant experience and accomplishments.
• Video Recordings of both a choral rehearsal and two voice lessons.
• Contact information for three professional references.

Official transcripts are required 45 days after contract is issued. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Employment is contingent upon a background check.

About MSSU:

MSSU’s vibrant campus creates an engaging learning environment for students and provides its faculty and staff rewarding career and benefit opportunities. We offer a collaborative and diverse workplace with an emphasis on fostering a global perspective with opportunities for advancement. Joining the MSSU Pride provides a variety of opportunities for you to attain your career goals, a place where your contributions are valued, and—perhaps most importantly—the ability to make a difference in the lives of our students. MSSU is an EOE/AA employer with a strong institutional commitment to achievement of excellence and diversity among faculty and staff. MSSU is an E-verify participating employer.

At MSSU, we believe in the transformative power of immersive education and the arts. Join us in inspiring the next generation of musicians and artists!

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Responsibilities:

• Directing and conducting our ensembles:
  • MSSU Chorale (MWF, 12-1p),
  • Chamber Singers (MWF, 1-2p) and
  • Symphonic Chorus (Thursday evenings in the Spring semester, 7-9p).
• Selecting appropriate repertoire and organizing performances in alignment with the department’s and the university's academic calendar.
• Planning and leading rehearsals, performances, and other choir-related events.
• Teaching related courses such as Choral Conducting and/or Applied Voice.
• Collaborating with faculty, staff, and students to enhance the overall musical experience.
• Providing mentorship and guidance to students, fostering their musical growth and development.
• Engaging with the local community, patrons, and donors through outreach initiatives and performances.

Qualifications:

• Doctorate in Music, Choral Conducting (preferred).
• Significant experience directing choirs at the collegiate or professional level.
• Strong conducting skills and a deep understanding of choral repertoire and vocal techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for students of all backgrounds.