Director of Bands Position

Southwestern College seeks a vibrant individual to direct and expand the College’s bands program. Envisioned as a curricular and co-curricular experience for students, instrumental music participation has been and remains an important way for students to express themselves, work together, tell important narratives about our society, and grow in skill and leadership. The director will be responsible for all aspects of the program. Bringing strategic leadership, the director will collaborate with a variety of college personnel and offices to ensure effective outreach, student recruitment, student development, and marketing. A dedicated passion for helping students reach their full potential in a supportive and inclusive environment is essential to this position.

Founded in 1885, Southwestern College is ranked as a Top Tier regional university in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report. Its online programs for undergraduates were recently ranked in the top thirty in the United States. The college serves students on-ground and online programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Students on the residential campus in Winfield enjoy direct interaction with members of the campus community that is enhanced by the use of college-issued laptops on a campus with ubiquitous wireless technology.

The successful candidate will bring energy, passion, and commitment to providing a first-class and deeply engaging experiential learning opportunity for students and build on accomplishments including the College’s pep band—the Band-Its! A strong background in all aspects of instrumental music and conducting is desired. This ten-month staff position includes a generous benefits package. Salary is reflective of training and experience.

Responsibilities include:

• Leading the planning, development, and implementation of a bands program
• Successfully recruiting students, based upon agreed-upon goals, for band ensembles
• Supervising student leaders to create and produce band concerts and performances
• Budgeting, management of all aspects of the instrumental ensembles and concerts, and providing leadership for the program
• Collaborating with colleagues in the creative arts, across campus and Southwestern College leadership to create a bands program that promotes excellence in a liberal arts environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in instrumental music or a closely related field.
• At least five years experience in managing, leading, and collaborating to produce bands performances.

To apply, submit a letter of application addressing interest and qualifications for the position, Curriculum Vitae or resume, and complete contact information for three (3) professional references who can address the candidate’s qualifications for the position to HumanResources@sckans.edu. Review of applications will begin on April 7, 2025, and the position will remain open until a candidate has been selected. In compliance with the Immigration Control Act of 1986, candidates for positions must provide proof of eligibility to work before an offer of employment can be made final. The successful candidate will be subject to a criminal background check. Southwestern College is an EEO/AA employer.