1,185 Music Theory jobs in the United States
Music Theory/Composition Instructors - Open Pool 2025
Posted 2 days ago
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Job Description
Working TitleMusic Theory/Composition Instructors - Open Pool 2025
Position LocationFort Collins, CO
Work LocationPosition is fully in-office/in-person
Posting Number F
Proposed Annual Salary Range$46,000-$48,000 9-month base salary (prorated for part-time work)
Employee Benefits
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
+ Review our detailed benefits information here. ( Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
+ For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator ( .
+ Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in ( !
Position TypeFaculty
Work Hours/Week
Description of Work Unit
The School of Music, Theatre, and Dance ( SMTD ) at Colorado State Universityempowers students to create, collaborate, innovate, and inspire. Through teaching, creative artistry, research, advocacy, and service,we elevate arts education. SMTD has 46 tenured and tenure-track faculty as well as 55 contract, continuing and adjunct faculty. There are currently over 550 students in SMTD , with 375 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in residential and online music degree programs.
SMTD is housed in the University Center for the Arts, a nationally recognized state-of the art 350,000 square foot facility, that includes a 550-seat concert hall, a 275-seat organ and chamber music recital hall, a 320-seat thrust theatre, a 100-seat black box theatre, a 200-seat dance theatre, dedicated rehearsal, production and research spaces, along with classrooms, labs and practice rooms.
The College of Liberal Arts, within which the school is located, is the largest college in the University. It is a community of arts, humanities, and social science scholars who create and extend knowledge and artistry that develops reflective citizens and confident leaders. We value diversity and inclusion in the workplace, aspiring to a productive environment in which everyone feels valued, where their talents are fully utilized, and where all individuals can bring their full selves to the role. We promote the CSU Principles of Community - Inclusion, Integrity, Respect, Service, and Social Justice - We therefore encourage applications from all individuals who share these values, and we prioritize a fair and equitable search process that strengthens a diverse, creative, and effective community.
Colorado State University ( CSU ) is a land grant institution with a student enrollment of approximately 30,000 students in over 150 programs, and a faculty numbering 1,700. CSU is located in Fort Collins, Colorado, a beautiful city of approximately 175,000 located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, 65 miles north of Denver. MarketWatch has listed Fort Collins as the "No. 1 Best Place to Live in America in 2020," and was also ranked No. 1 for the "2020 Top 100 Places to Live in America" by Livability.com. Additionally, Fort Collins is in America's top ten for best performing city, safest for driving and cycling, best place to raise a family, and No. 1 in the country for reducing harmful emissions by using alternative fuels and transportation. CSU was recently ranked first among Colorado-based educational employers and fifth among all in-state employers in Forbes magazine's "America's Best Employers by State!"
Colorado State University is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music.
Tenure/Tenure Track?No
% Research
% Teaching
% Service
% Administration
To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59pm (MT) on12/31/2025
Number of Vacancies
Desired Start Date
Position End Date
Position Summary
The School of Music, Theatre, and Dance may seek full time or part time, temporary Music Instructors to teach Music Theory/Music Composition courses in the music division, and in administrative roles coordinating special programs.
Applicants are added to the pool list throughout the calendar year. Hiring decisions are made during the late spring and early summer for fall semester, during the early fall semester for spring and during the spring semester for the summer term.
Conditions of EmploymentPre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires)
Required Job Qualifications
+ Master's degree in Music, with a music theory or composition focus.
Preferred Job Qualifications
+ Documented teaching experience at the college or university level.
+ PhD in Music, with a music theory or composition focus.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Application procedure: submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references. References will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates.
Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
All materials must be submitted digitally.
This pool expires December 31, 2025. Individuals wishing to be considered beyond this date must reapply.
Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
EEO
Colorado State University ( CSU ) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
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Essential Duties
References Requested
References Requested
Minimum Requested3
Maximum Requested3
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
+ Cover Letter
+ Resume
Optional Documents
Assistant Professor of Music Theory and Composition
Posted today
Job Viewed
Job Description
Title: Assistant Professor of Music Theory and Composition -
Position Number:
Unit/Department: Music
FTE: Full-Time, 9 month
Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience
Department Summary:
Drake University’s Department of Music (School of Fine Arts) is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music. The Music Department’s mission is to provide a center for the study and understanding of music that develops students’ intellectual, practical, and expressive abilities by emphasizing professional preparation, collaborative learning, critical thinking, and musical communication. Drake University seeks to recruit and support a broadly diverse community of faculty and staff.
Drake offers the best of both worlds: a department that is large enough to support a vast range of musical activities, but small enough that students receive highly personal attention. We pride ourselves on providing big-school opportunities in a small-school environment, and our graduates are well-trained and well-rounded musicians who are highly competitive in a wide range of vocational fields.
For more about the Department, visit: .
Job Summary:
Primary responsibilities include teaching the required courses in the undergraduate theory sequence, particularly advanced tonal and post-tonal theory and composition. Additional responsibilities include overseeing the music theory curriculum, advising senior theses for the B.A. (Music) degree in the areas of theory and/or composition, and teaching specialized seminars or courses currently offered by the department (e.g., orchestration, structure and design, composition lessons) and/or within the candidate’s area of expertise. Secondary areas of specialization may include music technology, pedagogy of theory, and/or music industry and administration.
Faculty are expected to contribute via service at the department, college, and university levels.
The successful candidate will be expected to work closely with colleagues, and to assume an active role in the advisement and retention of music students. The candidate must demonstrate both commitment to and a record of successful teaching at the University level. The candidate will provide evidence of and an agenda for pursuing scholarly and/or creative achievement at the regional and national level or beyond.
This appointment begins in August 2026.
Minimum Qualifications:
Those with either a DMA, Ph.D. or ABD are welcome to apply.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
To apply, please complete the online application and attach: (1) a cover letter, (2) CV/Resume, (3) statement of teaching philosophy, (4) a statement about your experience in supporting the success of students from diverse backgrounds, and (5) contact information for three references.
Please do not attach additional documents at this time. Supplemental documents may be requested or required of finalists.
All job offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check, satisfactory reference checks, and proof of work authorization.
Link to application:
Have Questions?
Questions about this position can be directed to the search chair: Nicholas Roth at
Questions about the application process, working at Drake, spouse/partner support, reasonable accommodations, benefits, or additional information about Drake or Des Moines, Iowa may be directed to Drake Human Resources at .
Review of Applications Begins:
For full consideration, please apply by October 5, 2025. The position will remain posted until filled.
Salary and Benefits:
Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts. If you are exploring a job with Drake University, we invite you to spend a little time
with our digital benefits guide: Drake Benefits Guide (Plan Year 2025) .
One of our very popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children. You can learn about both the tuition waiver policy and tuition exchange programs here: Tuition Benefits .
For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.
About Drake:
Drake University is recognized as a top private university in the Midwest. Drake is a midsize university in Des Moines, Iowa, with an increasingly diverse student body. We are deeply committed to equity and inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community—faculty, staff, and students alike. More than 900 faculty and staff are part of the Bulldog pack, a close-knit group of colleagues enthusiastic about preparing students to be global citizens and leaders, challenging assumptions. Drake University is not only an outstanding institution of higher learning, it is also a wonderful place to work. We are enthusiastically committed to welcoming new ideas and people into the fold, and to retaining and rewarding stellar employees.
All positions at Drake provide opportunities to contribute to Drake University’s core mission of creating an exceptional learning environment that prepares students of all backgrounds for meaningful lives and professional accomplishments.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion at Drake:
At Drake University, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, we support them, and we thrive on them for the benefit of our students, our employees, and our community. Drake University is proud to support an equal opportunity, diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. In fact, the celebration of diversity and inclusion are embedded in our Core Values . Learn more about our DEI commitment and efforts here .
We welcome applicants of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. If you are a member of a socially or historically underrepresented or marginalized group or you have actively demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusion, we strongly encourage you to apply. If you are a member of one of the equity groups identified by applicable law, we encourage you to self-identify, where requested in our online application system.
Drake University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. If you would benefit from an accommodation at any point in the recruitment process (including using our online application process), please contact Drake Human Resources (ph: ; e: ) and let us know how we can assist you.
At Drake University, we highly value a diverse, inclusive workforce. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We stand firmly against discrimination including on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Adjunct Instructor of Music Theory
Posted 16 days ago
Job Viewed
Job Description
The School of Music at Carnegie Mellon University invites applications for an adjunct Instructor of Music Theory, starting in the Spring 2026 semester. We seek a colleague to teach special topics and/or upper-level Music Theory courses in their area of expertise. Expected course load is 1-2 courses per semester.
**Qualifications**
The successful candidate will possess a master's degree or higher, or equivalent experience, and have experience teaching Music Theory at the university or conservatory level.
**Application Instructions**
Application materials should include:
+ Cover letter
+ CV
+ List of 5 professional references.
+ Sample syllabi, indicating whether the course has actually been offered.
+ Evidence of record of successful teaching experience.
**Equal Employment Opportunity Statement**
**Carnegie Mellon University** is an equal opportunity employer. It does not discriminate in admission, employment, or administration of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy or related condition, family status, marital status, parental status, religion, ancestry, veteran status, or genetic information. Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate and is required not to discriminate in violation of federal, state, or local laws or executive orders.
Assistant Professor of Music Theory
Posted 2 days ago
Job Viewed
Job Description
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of our academic community.
Emory University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Georgia State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Emory University does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in University programs and in use of facilities without such discrimination. The University also complies with all applicable federal and Georgia statutes and regulations prohibiting unlawful discrimination. All members of the student body, faculty, and staff are expected to assist in making this policy valid in fact. Any inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Office of Equity and Inclusion, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Bldg., Suite 305, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone 404/ (V) 404/ (TDD).
Tenure Track Assistant Professor of Music Theory
Posted 2 days ago
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Job Description
Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.
**Description**
*** PLEASE DO NOT APPLY HERE - ALL INTERESTED CANDIDATES SHOULD APPLY THROUGH INTERFOLIO:** ** ***
TENURE-TRACK ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF MUSIC THEORY
Deadline: 15 December 2025
The Department of Music at Emory University invites applications for a full-time tenure-track Assistant Professor in Music Theory position to begin on August 1, 2026. The successful candidate will maintain an active and rigorous research profile and be an outstanding teacher who is committed to and experienced in mentoring a diverse undergraduate student community.
The candidate will also support and develop the department's interdisciplinary research and teaching profile, which encompasses both traditional and creative modes of scholarship.This is a full-time position with a competitive salary and benefits.
Qualifications for the position include: a PhD in music theory conferred by the time of offer; evidence of significant scholarly contributions to the field; demonstrated commitment to teaching undergraduates; ability to articulate how the study of music contributes to a liberal arts education.
The successful candidate will teach four courses during the academic year (2+2) that include the basic music theory and aural skills sequence designed for music majors and seminars in the area of their expertise.
Applicants should submit the following materials via Interfolio (1) cover letter, (2) CV, and (3) three letters of recommendation from professional references who are familiar with their teaching and scholarship.
Review of applications will begin on December 16, 2025. Questions about the position may be directed to Laura Emmery, chair of the search committee,
Emory University is located in Atlanta, a major metropolitan area and cultural center. The Department of Music serves more than 100 music majors across three tracks: performance, composition, and history/theory/culture. The department enjoys close relationships with notable Atlanta arts organizations, including the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.
Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for
employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.
Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities).
Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: (V) | (TDD).
*** PLEASE DO NOT APPLY HERE - ALL INTERESTED CANDIDATES SHOULD APPLY THROUGH INTERFOLIO:** ** ***
NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.
**Additional Details**
Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: (V) | (TDD).
Emory University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at (V) | (TDD). Please note that one week's advance notice is preferred.
**Connect With Us!**
Connect with us for general consideration!
**Job Number** _ _
**Job Type** _Regular Full-Time_
**Division** _Emory College_
**Department** _ECAS: Music_
**Campus Location (For Posting) : Location** _US-GA-Atlanta_
**_Location : Name_** _Emory Campus-Clifton Corridor_
**Remote Work Classification** _No Remote_
**Health and Safety Information** _Not Applicable_
Preschool music & movement instructor
Posted today
Job Viewed
Job Description
Job Description
With more than 20 years of experience, this popular early childhood music and movement program is seeking candidates to join the team.
The ideal individual is energetic, enthusiastic, outgoing, and has a passion for working with young children.
This position is part time. The part time hours are weekdays from approximately 8:30am to 12:30pm.
Responsibilities 1. Teaching a set music and movement curriculum. 2. Promote growth and learning through music and movement activities.
Requirements:
- Possess relevant early childhood education or related experience.
- Demonstrate the physical agility to move around, get up and down, and actively engage young children in music and movement activities.
- Possess the ability to inspire and foster creativity.
- Have reliable transportation.
-Qualify on required background checks.
Relevant areas include Early Childhood Education and Preschool Music Education.
Benefits
Training pay is $17.00 per hour.
Additional pay incentives and mileage compensation may apply.
Preschool music & movement instructor
Posted today
Job Viewed
Job Description
Job Description
With more than 20 years of experience, this popular early childhood music and movement program is seeking candidates to join the team.
The ideal individual is energetic, enthusiastic, outgoing, and has a passion for working with young children.
This position is part time. The part time hours are weekdays from approximately 8:30am to 12:30pm.
Responsibilities 1. Teaching a set music and movement curriculum. 2. Promote growth and learning through music and movement activities.
Requirements:
- Possess relevant early childhood education or related experience.
- Demonstrate the physical agility to move around, get up and down, and actively engage young children in music and movement activities.
- Possess the ability to inspire and foster creativity.
- Have reliable transportation.
-Qualify on required background checks.
Relevant areas include Early Childhood Education and Preschool Music Education.
Benefits
Training pay is $17.00 per hour.
Additional pay incentives and mileage compensation may apply.
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Preschool music & movement instructor
Posted today
Job Viewed
Job Description
Job Description
With more than 20 years of experience, this popular early childhood music and movement program is seeking candidates to join the team.
The ideal individual is energetic, enthusiastic, outgoing, and has a passion for working with young children.
This position is part time. The part time hours are weekdays from approximately 8:30am to 12:30pm.
Responsibilities 1. Teaching a set music and movement curriculum. 2. Promote growth and learning through music and movement activities.
Requirements:
- Possess relevant early childhood education or related experience.
- Demonstrate the physical agility to move around, get up and down, and actively engage young children in music and movement activities.
- Possess the ability to inspire and foster creativity.
- Have reliable transportation.
-Qualify on required background checks.
Relevant areas include Early Childhood Education and Preschool Music Education.
Benefits
Training pay is $17.00 per hour.
Additional pay incentives and mileage compensation may apply.
Preschool music & movement instructor
Posted today
Job Viewed
Job Description
Job Description
With more than 20 years of experience, this popular early childhood music and movement program is seeking candidates to join the team.
The ideal individual is energetic, enthusiastic, outgoing, and has a passion for working with young children.
This position is part time. The part time hours are weekdays from approximately 8:30am to 12:30pm.
Responsibilities 1. Teaching a set music and movement curriculum. 2. Promote growth and learning through music and movement activities.
Requirements:
- Possess relevant early childhood education or related experience.
- Demonstrate the physical agility to move around, get up and down, and actively engage young children in music and movement activities.
- Possess the ability to inspire and foster creativity.
- Have reliable transportation.
-Qualify on required background checks.
Relevant areas include Early Childhood Education and Preschool Music Education.
Benefits
Training pay is $17.00 per hour.
Additional pay incentives and mileage compensation may apply.
Preschool music & movement instructor
Posted today
Job Viewed
Job Description
Job Description
With more than 20 years of experience, this popular early childhood music and movement program is seeking candidates to join the team.
The ideal individual is energetic, enthusiastic, outgoing, and has a passion for working with young children.
This position is part time. The part time hours are weekdays from approximately 8:30am to 12:30pm.
Responsibilities 1. Teaching a set music and movement curriculum. 2. Promote growth and learning through music and movement activities.
Requirements:
- Possess relevant early childhood education or related experience.
- Demonstrate the physical agility to move around, get up and down, and actively engage young children in music and movement activities.
- Possess the ability to inspire and foster creativity.
- Have reliable transportation.
-Qualify on required background checks.
Relevant areas include Early Childhood Education and Preschool Music Education.
Benefits
Training pay is $17.00 per hour.
Additional pay incentives and mileage compensation may apply.