Director of Choral Activities

Shenandoah Conservatory at Shenandoah University invites applications for the Director of Choral Activities position at the Assistant or Associate Professor level. This full-time benefited (9-month) career-contract position, located on the University’s main campus in Winchester, Virginia, will begin in August 2027.

Shenandoah Conservatory Choir, one of three choral ensembles within the Conservatory, specializes in music encompassing everything from historical repertoire to the most cutting-edge contemporary choral compositions. Emphasis is placed on programming music inspired by a wide variety of world cultures and from a broad spectrum of composers.

Beyond directing the Conservatory Choir, the chosen candidate will teach choral conducting across levels, and work with choral colleagues to further elevate the choral culture at Shenandoah Conservatory. The Director of Choral Activities will actively recruit for Conservatory programs, build relationships with high school choral programs in the mid-Atlantic region, and advance the Conservatory's reputation as a premier and innovative place of study where artists from diverse backgrounds actively engage around innovative and collaborative work. Specifically, the desired candidate will:

1. Administer the choral area, direct Conservatory Choir, teach undergraduate courses in conducting and guide masters and doctoral conducting study;
2. Collaborate with the Vocal Choral Division and contribute to a cohesive and collegial faculty that includes specialists in classical, musical theatre, and commercial voice;
3. Collaborate with colleagues and the deans to design, develop, and implement recruitment strategies;
4. Actively participate in faculty meetings, auditions; and
5. Teach specialized courses in areas of expertise.

1. A terminal degree in choral conducting or professional equivalent.
2. A record of successful teaching at the collegiate level.
3. Evidence of effective strategies for recruiting a broad spectrum of choral singers.
4. A demonstrated commitment to pedagogical methods that support all learners in reaching their maximum potential.
5. A mindfulness for student well-being and ability to contribute to the Conservatory's commitment to Belonging.
6. A thoughtful orientation toward collaborative work.

How to Apply:

The complete application will include a cover letter addressing the listed qualifications, including an explanation regarding how the candidate can contribute to a positive choral culture and recruitment, Curriculum Vitae,  contact information for three professional references, and Links to rehearsal and performance videos.  Additional materials may be requested of finalists. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is selected. Inquiries for the Position Should Be Addressed to: Dr. Hillary Ridgley, Associate Professor of Choral Music Education, Shenandoah Conservatory at Shenandoah University; hridgley@su.edu

**Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire. 

** Authorization to work in the United States is a pre-condition of employment. At this time, Shenandoah University is not in a position to sponsor international visas.

Shenandoah University values individuals and communities' unique and diverse perspectives locally and globally. It seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic or national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.