Augsburg University offers more than 50 undergraduate majors and 11 graduate degrees to approximately 3,400 students of diverse backgrounds. The trademark of an Augsburg education is its emphasis on direct, personal experience. Guided by the faith and values of the Lutheran church, Augsburg educates students to be informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders.

Among the distinctive features of the university are its deep dedication to civic and community engagement, robust undergraduate research programs, and a strong belief in the integration of liberal arts and professional studies across all programs. The University's commitments to our urban context and the world beyond it are enhanced through the work of four signature centers: the Christensen Center for Vocation, the Center for Global Education and Experience, the Sabo Center for Democracy and Citizenship, and the Strommen Center for Meaningful Work. 

As part of Augsburg University's commitment to intentional diversity, 50% of our current student body identifies as Black, Indigenous, and persons of color. The emerging interdisciplinary Department of Critical Race and Ethnicity Studies builds on this foundation to further diversify our academic curriculum and co-curricular programs. We do this work out of historical and contemporary obligations rooted in our ethical and intellectual commitments to prepare our diverse student body for a cosmopolitan world.

Augsburg's Statement of Commitment on Equity
We believe that education is the key to healthy, meaningful and productive lives for individuals, as well as to the vibrancy of our democracy. Augsburg University is dedicated to achieving an educational experience free from the barriers of poverty, racism, and discrimination so that students can fully realize their unique gifts. Recognizing that higher education's democratic promise is compromised by systemic and systematic barriers to college access and completion, Augsburg is called to stand for equity in everything we do to fulfill our academic mission, serve our students and engage our fellow citizens.

The Music Department invites applications for the John N. Schwartz Professorship in Choral Leadership and Conducting, beginning August 2027. Appointment at the Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, or Professor level will be based on the successful candidate's qualifications, experience, and record of achievement. For full consideration, applications should be received by October 15, 2026.

The position is housed in the Schwartz School of the Arts, an interdisciplinary community of creative exchange across the narrative, performing, and visual arts, dedicated to artistic responsibility, individual agency, and transformative engagement with the arts. The Music Department offers undergraduate and graduate majors and concentrations in music therapy, music education, music industry and production, performance, and creative practices.

We seek an established leader in choral music and conducting to join the faculty who shares the department's commitment to advancing a 21st-century choral program. The ideal candidate will forge innovation in choral music in a variety of ways, from conference performances and clinics, publications and speaking engagements, to professional symposia and seminars at Augsburg, and guest conducting.

Responsibilities for this 10-month position include:

• Oversight of the entire choral program and choral curriculum
• Teaching load: four courses per year, including conducting Augsburg choirs, and equivalent administrative responsibilities as determined by the department chair
• Recruitment of choir members and music majors
• Collaboration with the Twin Cities’ choral and broader music organizations
• Leadership and participation in the University’s larger annual events, such as Advent Vespers and other commemorative occasions

• Terminal degree in Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Music, or Doctor of Music (DM)
• Demonstrated and recognized record of success in conducting and performance
• Minimum of 3 years of college teaching experience
• Ability to articulate and accomplish evolving models of choral music, conducting, and instruction
• Extensive experience and leadership in program and curriculum development

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $70,000 - $100,000, depending on hiring rank and qualifications.

Augsburg University offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits program, including: 

• Medical, dental and vision insurance coverage. Medical plans include Kavira direct care, which provides free or low-cost virtual and in-home primary care appointments and labs
• A generous 403(b) retirement program with an employer contribution of up to 8% upon eligibility
• Up to 100% tuition remission for employees, spouses and dependents, and participation in the Tuition Exchange program with colleges and universities throughout the US
• Employer-paid short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees
• Paid parental leave

Application Instructions and Requirements

Initial review of applications will begin October 15, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.

To apply for this position, please upload the following documents:

• Cover letter. Please address how you meet the qualifications of the position and include a statement on your commitment to advancing a 21st-century choral program.  
• Curriculum Vitae 
• Teaching Philosophy and evidence of inclusive teaching across the undergraduate curriculum
• Conducting videos: Submit links to samples of rehearsal and concert performance as a conductor (with the camera facing you from the ensemble’s perspective). 
• Copies of undergraduate and graduate transcripts. Official transcripts are required at time of hire.

As part of the online application process, candidates are asked to provide the name, email address, and nature of professional relationship for three professional references. One of the references must be able to address your teaching or teaching potential. If your application advances in this search, you will be notified prior to Augsburg contacting your references. 

If you have questions regarding the position, please contact: Dr. Rachel Bergman at [email protected].   

Augsburg University is committed to providing equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, national origin, familial status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status or public assistance status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Successful candidates will have demonstrated abilities working in an academic community committed to intentional diversity. Candidates are thus encouraged to highlight skills and experiences that demonstrate these competencies. Women and persons of color are encouraged to apply.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to complete our application process, please contact our Human Resources Department at phone number: 612-330-1058 or email: [email protected].

Augsburg University is committed to providing equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, national origin, familial status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status or public assistance status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. 

If you need a reasonable accommodation to complete our application process, please contact our Human Resources Department at phone number: 612-330-1058 or email: [email protected].