Assistant Professor of Music

Position Summary The primary location of this position is the main campus in Cullowhee.The Western Carolina University School of Music invites applications for an Assistant Professor of Music – Flute. This is a nine-month, tenure track position with an anticipated start of August 2026. We seek a dynamic teacher and accomplished flutist who can engage and inspire students while modeling the depth and breadth of musical experiences essential to success in today’s evolving arts landscape. Responsibilities Teach applied flute lessons to majors and minors in all degree programs. Lead weekly studio classes and coach chamber ensembles; assist with large ensembles as appropriate. Recruit and retain a high-quality flute studio, including participation in School of Music recruiting events and auditions. Coordinate all aspects of the applied flute studio, including private instruction, ensemble participation, and student mentoring. Contribute to curriculum development, student advising, assessment, and service at the school, college, and university levels. Maintain an active professional profile as a performer, scholar, and educator. Participate in departmental concerts, juries, festivals, and outreach activities. Depending on the candidate’s expertise, additional teaching may include courses in core musicianship, music technology, or music education methods, as assigned by the School of Music Director. Western North Carolina is a region rich in the arts, and WCU’s David Orr Belcher College of Fine and Performing Arts brings together the traditions and resources of the region with the talent of our students to serve as the heart of art and culture in WNC. The Belcher College of combines training with performance, community engagement and business and entrepreneurship skills to prepare young musicians, actors, writers, film makers, directors, visual artists, and designers for diverse careers in the art, film and performance industries. The faculty, students, staff, and leadership of the Belcher College strive to create an artistic and scholarly home that reflects the people we serve, now and in the future, a home where everyone feels empowered to realize their full, authentic selves as a valued and contributing member. We believe in the power and passion of the fine and performing arts to positively and proactively influence our changing world, and commit to leveraging that power to ensure the inclusive world we desire. The WCU School of Music faculty and students perform 150-200 concerts and recitals each year on Western’s campus and on tours throughout the region and nation. Our student performing ensembles include traditional and innovative performance opportunities including bands, choirs, chamber music, and a wide variety of technology-enhanced ensembles exploring jazz, commercial, and experimental styles. The School of Music offers degree programs in Performance, Music Education, Commercial Music and Audio Production, and Music in the Liberal Arts that are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required for this Position Minimum Qualifications DMA or PhD in flute performance. ABD candidates will be considered, but the degree must be completed prior to the start of the Fall 2026 semester. Demonstrated excellence in flute teaching and performance indicative of the capacity to excel in fulfillment of the above responsibilities. Preferred Qualifications At least two years of collegiate teaching experience in applied flute. Proven expertise as an innovative performer and teacher, conversant with contemporary music, and skilled in a range of flute pedagogies. Potential for national recognition as a flute performer and collaborator in professional and educational settings. Evidence of the ability to recruit, retain, and inspire students across multiple areas of interest. A commitment to being part of a highly motivated and student-centered faculty that prioritizes student learning and engagement. Position Type Permanent Full-Time Number of Hours Per Week 40 Number of Months Per Year 9