Director of Orchestras (Assoc Prof/Professor of Conducting)

About the Role

The Northwestern University Henry and Leigh Bienen School of Music invites applications for a tenured appointment as Director of Orchestras at the rank of Associate or Full Professor, beginning September 1, 2027. The Bienen School of Music educates exceptional students in an environment that values both musical and academic excellence. The school offers conservatory-level training within a top-ranked university and features a dedicated faculty, unparalleled facilities, and proximity to the vibrant music community of Chicago.

Responsibilities

• Provide forward-looking artistic and curricular leadership for Northwestern's comprehensive orchestra program
• Teach and recruit graduate conducting students
• Supervise doctoral committees
• Participate actively and collaboratively in the activities of a school of music in a research university
• Inspire outstanding musicianship through symphonic, operatic, and contemporary repertoire
• Foster an inviting culture of engagement across the school's conducting and applied studio faculty

Required Qualifications

• Established national and/or international reputation as an orchestral and/or opera conductor
• Commitment to artistry and professionalism
• Proven record of successful recruitment and teaching
• Master of Music degree or equivalent professional experience

Preferred Qualifications

• International reputation
• Record of successful teaching in a school or conservatory of music within a university
• Doctoral degree

Salary

The expected base pay based on rank is as follows: Associate Professor: $150,000-$170,000; Professor: $170,000-$195,000. Northwestern University has provided a pay range representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for the position. The pay offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors including (but not limited to) the experience and qualifications of the selected candidate; years since terminal degree, training, and field or discipline; departmental budget availability; internal equity; and external market pay for comparable jobs.

Application

Screening begins August 15, 2026, and continues until position is filled. Candidates must submit:

• A letter of application
• A curriculum vitae
• Links to video recordings of recent rehearsals and performances (approx. 15 minutes for each)
• A statement of teaching and artistic philosophies
• Names and contact information of three references

Applications will only be accepted via online submission. Please prepare all documents in advance as Adobe PDF files, and be sure all information is entered correctly and accurately (especially names and email addresses), as there will be no opportunity for online revision after your application has been submitted. Please also prepare a list of names and email addresses for your external academic references; your references will be contacted directly by the online system and invited to upload their letters on your behalf. All required fields in the application form are marked with an asterisk and must be filled before clicking the "Submit" button. Be aware that incomplete applications cannot be saved.

Apply online via the Bienen School's website at: https://music.northwestern.edu/careers

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• Paid medical/sick and parental leave
• Tuition benefits for the employee and dependents
• Pre-tax and flexible spending accounts for commuting and dependent care
• Generous retirement savings options
• Wellness programs

For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit Northwestern Benefits.

Questions should be directed to Professor Andrew Megill, Search Committee Chair, at andrew.megill@northwestern.edu. Visit www.music.northwestern.edu for information regarding the Bienen School of Music.