Assistant Professor of Piano and African American Studies (Univ. of Georgia)

Hugh Hodgson School of Music Institute for African American Studies Assistant Professor of Piano and African American Studies Full time, Tenure Track

The University of Georgia (UGA), in conjunction with the Hugh Hodgson School of Music (HHSOM) and the Institute for African-American Studies, seeks an artist/teacher of piano to develop and teach courses and experiences in non-classical music and African-American music. Teaching will be based on the candidate’s expertise and could include existing or new coursework in one or more of the following areas as appropriate: applied piano instruction in non-classical styles (such as, but not limited to jazz, musical theater, gospel, blues, and other contemporary or popular styles); courses in African-American music and performative traditions; coursework in improvisation, non-classical keyboard harmony, performance practice, arranging, commercial music, worship music, or other areas aligned with the candidate’s experience. The candidate’s work will help develop and expand the curriculum in the HHSOM, diversify repertoire in the school, and support the school’s growing jazz and/or commercial music programs. This is an interdepartmental faculty position in Music and African American Studies at the rank of assistant professor, with the tenure home in the School of Music. The position starts Aug. 1, 2021.

Responsibilities

• Teach applied piano lessons in non-classical styles appropriate to candidate’s musical expertise.

• Teach music and/or lecture courses related to the candidate’s area of expertise to support undergraduate and graduate course work in both Music and the Institute for African American Studies.

• Lead and assist with initiatives, such as coaching and developing musical ensembles and chamber music in non-classical styles, to help grow and develop the performance and study of non- classical musics at UGA.

• Maintain a productive career as a research/creative scholar and performer.

• Assist in student recruitment.

• Other duties as assigned.
  

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree in music, with at least one earned degree with a major or concentration in piano performance. Candidates without a terminal degree must be able to document exceptional accomplishments in the fields of piano performance and/or teaching and research in African American music and must be approved for a terminal degree exception before hire.

• Demonstrated knowledge of African American musical performative traditions.

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism.

• Demonstrated desire to contribute to dynamic, holistic music/arts programs located in a city known for its music and arts culture.

• Demonstrated willingness to collaborate with recognized faculty and artists in advancing a national and international profile.

• Minimum one year teaching experience, with the ability to develop course work in the area of African American music based on individual expertise.
  

To Apply Applicants should include a curriculum vitae and cover letter describing their academic qualifications and professional experience, showing how they will add value to the program. Included in the cover letter should be information related to their teaching philosophy and how their teaching, service, and research/creative activity have supported the success of students from racial, ethnic, and gender backgrounds that are underrepresented in the field. Applicants who may not yet have had these experiences should explain how their work will further the College’s commitment to diversity. (Maximum 3 pages).

Application materials should also include links to an online portfolio/website highlighting artistic work, unofficial transcripts for highest degree earned, and the names and contact information for a minimum of three references. References can be solicited via the online application system or can be sent from a third-party credentialing service like Interfolio.

Application documents must be uploaded to the UGAJobs link (https://www.ugajobsearch.com/postings/182528 ) with search committee reviews beginning March 1, 2021. To ensure full consideration, please apply by March 1. Additional materials may be requested at the semi- finalist stage. Questions about the application process can be directed at Edith Hollander (somadmin@uga.edu or 706-542-3737); questions about the position can be directed at Dr. Martha Thomas (mlthomas@uga.edu). Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu). Please do not contact the department or search committee with such requests.

The Hugh Hodgson School of Music (www.music.uga.edu) is among the leading schools of music in the region and nationally. It includes comprehensive programs, with degrees at the undergraduate level through the masters and doctorate. A celebrated faculty, outstanding facilities, and talented students build a supportive and rich environment for artistic and scholarly growth. Graduates from our programs have been internationally successful in their chosen fields.

The Institute for African American Studies (https://afam.uga.edu/) offers students a degree that focuses on the history of the African American people, their impact on American culture, as well as their modern experience in today’s world. It explores African American literature that dates back to the late 1700’s, as well as their influence in theater and art. It explores race and ethnicity in America, as well as cultural diversity and how it varies across groups. The Institute provides students with the opportunity to participate in exciting lectures and discussions led by faculty members that are engaged in promoting the study of people of African descent and their experiences throughout history.

The University of Georgia (www.uga.edu), a land-grant and sea-grant university with statewide commitments and responsibilities, is the state's oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (http://www.uga.edu/). UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University 's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA was founded in 1785 by the Georgia General Assembly as the first state-chartered University in the country. UGA employs approximately 1,800 full-time instructional faculty and more than 7,600 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 36,000 students including over 27,500 undergraduates and over 8,500 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 17 schools and colleges, as well as a medical partnership with Augusta University housed on the UGA Health Sciences Campus in Athens.

The Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, its many units, and the University of Georgia are committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty and students, and sustaining a work and learning environment that is inclusive. Women, minorities and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, genetic information, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or protected veteran status.