Director Of Bands And Music Instructor

Director of Bands

VUU is nourished by its African American and Christian heritage and energized by a commitment to excellence and diversity. Its mission is to: 1) Provide a nurturing, intellectually challenging and spiritually enriching environment for learning; 2) Empower students to develop strong moral values for success; and 3) Develop scholars, leaders, and lifelong learners of a global society.

Established in 1865, Virginia Union University gave newly emancipated slaves an opportunity for education, for establishing a community, and for gaining economic, political and social advancement. The University is the result of a merger among four historic institutions: Richmond Theological Seminary, Wayland Seminary, Hartshorn Memorial, and Storer College. Richmond Theological Seminary held its first classes at Lumpkin's Jail, a former holding cell for runaway slaves. The Wayland Seminary was founded in 1865 by the American Baptist Home Mission Society in Washington, DC. Two years later Storer College was founded in West Virginia, and Hartshorn Memorial College opened its doors in 1883 as the first college for African American women in the country. After operating independently for three decades, these notable seminaries joined forces to form Virginia Union University in 1899. Hartshorn Memorial and Storer Colleges would eventually join this Union in 1932 and 1964, respectively.

Located in the heart of Virginia's capital city, Virginia Union University, a Baptist affiliated private institution, is best known for its world-renowned graduate school of theology. It also offers a broad range of educational opportunities in the liberal arts, teaching, research, science, technology, continuing education, civic engagement, and study abroad. VUU's commitment to student success has included an emphasis on student engagement and retention, and close interaction between faculty and students, both of which produce a synergy among scholarship, teaching, and learning.

At Virginia Union University, we consistently search for and create growth opportunities that forge groundbreaking research, state of the art technology, or top-of-the-line curriculum. We welcome and encourage new ideas and processes that positively impact experiences. We require the following core values.

Spiritual Formation, as a faith-based University, we welcome the regular practice of prayer, worship, silence, and mediation that matures one's relationships, values, and life purpose that lead to ongoing spiritual growth and transformation.

Integrity, we value our commitment to fairness, honesty, and truth reflected in each person's words and deeds while holding ourselves accountable for our personal and words and actions.

Diversity & Inclusion, as one of the nation's oldest HBCUs, we value diversity in thought, perspective, and embodiment, trusting that we are stronger when various voices, traditions, and experiences are present. We value inclusivity and promote safety with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Excellence, we provide the highest quality of experiences and interactions while remaining flexible, responsive, and open-minded in developing and delivering programs, services, and facilities committed to exceeding the standards of what it means to be Best-In-Class.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Band Director at Virginia Union University is responsible for comprehensive directorship, leading and managing all aspects of the marching, jazz, and pep bands. With specific responsibility for the Ambassadors of Sound Marching Band, Jazz and Pep Bands, the Director of Bands, will lead Virginia Union University's plans to build a bigger and more dynamic collegiate Marching Band program.  This individual will provide artistic direction, musical instruction, and leadership to student musicians. The Band Director will uphold the university's commitment to excellence, fostering a positive and inclusive environment that promotes musical growth, teamwork, and school spirit.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Program Leadership and Vision:

• Develop and articulate a clear vision and goals for the band program in alignment with the university's mission and values.

• Lead, inspire, and motivate student musicians to achieve musical excellence and performance quality.

• Collaborate with university administrators, faculty, and staff to promote the band program and its contributions to campus life.

Musical Direction and Instruction:

• Select, arrange, and/or compose music for marching, jazz, and pep band performances.

• Conduct rehearsals, sectionals, and performances to ensure musical accuracy, precision, and artistic expression.

• Provide individualized coaching and feedback to student musicians to enhance their skills and musicianship.

Student Leadership:

• Recruit, select, and supervise talented student musicians.

• Mentor and develop student leaders within the bands, fostering their leadership skills and responsibility.

• Establish and maintain open communication with students, staff, parents, and alumni to build a supportive band community.

Event Coordination and Performance Management:

• Plan, coordinate, and execute marching, symphonic, and pep band performances at university events, athletic games, parades, and competitions.

• Manage logistical aspects of performances, including transportation, equipment, uniforms, and rehearsal schedules.

• Collaborate with university athletic departments, event organizers, and external partners to ensure successful performances.

Budget Management and Fundraising:

• Develop and manage the band program budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and efficient use of resources.

• Identify and pursue fundraising opportunities to support the band program's needs and initiatives.

• Cultivate relationships with donors, alumni, and community partners to enhance financial support and engagement.

Professional Development and Community Engagement:

• Stay current with trends, techniques, and best practices in band education and performance.

• Engage with the local community, schools, and music organizations to promote music education and the arts.

• Represent the university and band program at conferences, workshops, and other professional events.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree required, plus extensive experience in Marching Band directorship at any level.  A master's degree or higher is preferred.

• Previous experience directing marching, jazz, and pep bands or similar ensembles.

• Strong knowledge of marching, jazz, and pep band techniques, repertoire, and performance standards.

• Demonstrated recruiting skills, including clear oral and written communication skills.

• Ability to support students from diverse backgrounds and to actively foster a respectful, positive learning environment.

• Excellent conducting, rehearsal, and musicianship skills.

• Effective leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.

• Commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment for all students.

Salary: Commensurate with experience.