At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the NSU Marching Wolves and Pep Band, while teaching low brass instruments.
- Company: Northern State University, fostering a vibrant and inclusive music community.
- Benefits: Full-time position with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to building a welcoming culture.
- Why this job: Shape the future of athletic bands and inspire students through music.
- Qualifications: Master's degree in Music and experience in directing bands required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Northern State University (NSU) seeks a dynamic educator and conductor to function as Director of Athletic Bands and Instructor of Low Brass. This position is a full-time, non-tenure track position with duties to begin in August 2026. This opportunity requires an energetic, vibrant, and dedicated individual who values student-centered learning, collaborative leadership, community engagement, and can build an active and inclusive athletic band culture that supports NSU campus life and the greater region. The successful candidate will also be expected to establish and maintain positive relationships with secondary school band directors throughout the region that lead to excellent recruitment and retention of students within the NSU Department of Music. The position works collaboratively with the Director of Bands to ensure alignment among athletic bands, concert ensembles, and the broader curricular and co-curricular goals of the department.
Essential Duties
- Direct and manage the NSU Marching Wolves, including pre-fall semester band camp, rehearsals, performances, and game-day operations.
- Direct and manage the NSU Pep Band for men’s and women’s home basketball games.
- Conduct the NSU Concert Band.
- Select and program music appropriate for athletic venues and institutional traditions.
- Coordinate all logistical aspects of athletic band activities, including scheduling, travel, equipment, uniforms, and facility usage.
- Recruit, train, and supervise student leaders (e.g., drum majors, section leaders).
- Collaborate with NSU Department of Athletics and other campus groups to enhance school spirit and student engagement.
- Provide experienced, individualized applied instruction on all low brass instruments (trombone, euphonium, tuba), as well as brass-related methods courses.
- Coach assorted brass chamber ensembles.
- Teach additional courses as determined by the needs of the music department and candidate expertise.
- Participate in faculty meetings and other selected service activities.
Required Qualifications
- Master of Music or Master of Music Education.
- Demonstrated success in significant program growth directing marching bands, athletic pep bands, and concert bands at the high school or collegiate level.
- Demonstrated excellence in low brass performance and pedagogy.
- Strong conducting, rehearsal, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Additional experience in jazz performance considered a plus.
- Demonstrated communication and organizational skills, and an ability to work collaboratively.
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Reference List
- Graduate Transcripts
Optional Documents are available upon request.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Northern State University is committed to building a welcoming culture of belonging and collegiality that respects diversity in knowledge, culture and world view. Northern seeks faculty and staff who will engage with individuals of diverse backgrounds, beliefs and perspectives to increase awareness, understanding, respect and opportunity for all.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Contact Information
South Dakota Board of Regents
306 E. Capital Ave, Suite 200
Pierre, SD 57501
605-773-3455
Notice to applicants
If you are selected as a finalist, job references and a background check may be conducted.
Director of Athletic Bands/Low Brass Instructor employer: South Dakota Board of Regents
Contact Detail:
South Dakota Board of Regents Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Athletic Bands/Low Brass Instructor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current and former colleagues, especially those in the music education field. They might have insider info on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you can, create a portfolio or video showcasing your conducting and teaching style. This gives potential employers a taste of what you bring to the table beyond just a CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to schools or organisations you’re interested in. Express your passion for building an inclusive band culture and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are enthusiastic about joining our community at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Athletic Bands/Low Brass Instructor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for music education and how your experience aligns with the role. We want to see your personality come through, so don’t be afraid to let your enthusiasm for building an inclusive band culture show!
Showcase Your Experience: In your CV, focus on your achievements in directing bands and any relevant teaching experience. We’re looking for someone who has successfully grown programs, so include specific examples of your past successes and how they relate to the position at NSU.
Gather Strong References: Choose references who can speak to your skills in music education and leadership. We want to hear about your collaborative spirit and ability to engage with students and colleagues alike. A solid reference list can really make you stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your documents in one go. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital age of applications!
How to prepare for a job interview at South Dakota Board of Regents
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the role. Familiarise yourself with the NSU Marching Wolves and the Pep Band's history, as well as the music department's goals. This shows your genuine interest and helps you connect your experience to their needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership and organisational skills. Discuss how you've successfully managed band activities, recruited students, or collaborated with other departments. This will demonstrate your ability to build an inclusive band culture.
✨Engage with the Community
Think about how you can enhance community engagement through music. Be ready to share ideas on how to establish relationships with local secondary school band directors and how you plan to involve the wider community in NSU’s athletic bands.
✨Practice Your Conducting
Since conducting is a key part of this role, consider doing a mock conducting session before the interview. This will not only boost your confidence but also prepare you to discuss your conducting style and how it aligns with NSU's vision.