Instructor of Music Theory - School of Music
Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts at Arizona State University
Description
The School of Music, Dance and Theatre in the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts at Arizona State University seeks an instructor of music theory for a one-year, full-time, benefits-eligible position for the 2026-27 academic year. The position is an academic year (nine-month) career-track position. Anticipated start date is August 16, 2026; fall semester classes begin August 20, 2026.
The successful candidate is expected to teach courses in the undergraduate music theory core and upper-level undergraduate and graduate music theory electives related to the candidate’s interest. Our undergraduate and graduate curricula allow for a range of teaching interests. This is an in-person position located on the ASU Tempe campus and may include teaching on the downtown Phoenix campus.
About ASU
Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses and multiple innovation hubs that positively impact the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. In 2022, ASU was named a Hispanic-Serving Institution and in 2023, ASU joined the prestigious Association of American Universities. ASU is deeply committed to advancing in innovative ways while sustaining a welcoming, supportive and empowering environment for all members of our community.
About the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts
The Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts is the largest comprehensive design and arts school in the country located within a dynamic research university focused on transformative change. Built on a unique combination of disciplines, the Herberger Institute comprises six schools: ASU FIDM, the School of Art, the School of Arts, Media and Engineering, The Design School, The Sidney Poitier New American Film School, and the School of Music, Dance and Theatre. The Institute also includes the ASU Art Museum and the ASU FIDM Museum. The Herberger Institute is committed to developing and scaling ideas that strengthen the role and impact of designers and artists across all areas of society and culture, and to increasing the capacity of artists and designers to make a difference in their communities. For more information on the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts, visit herbergerinstitute.asu.edu.
About the ASU School of Music, Dance and Theatre
The School of Music, Dance and Theatre in the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts at Arizona State University prepares artists, scholars, visionaries and entrepreneurs to become creative leaders who transform society through their art. Our internationally recognized faculty artists, scholars and guest artists are motivating and compassionate mentors who work with students to cultivate excellence and personal growth. Our nationally recognized programs feature a comprehensive range of degrees plus minors and certificates and more than 600 concerts, events, performances, productions and recitals each year. Located in the culturally rich Southwest in one of the most vibrant, expanding urban centers, our programs afford students access to an inclusive environment and engagement in Phoenix’s flourishing arts community. Above all, we value the creativity, personal experience and voice each student brings to the school.
The music theory area offers a Bachelor of Music in Music Theory and Composition with an emphasis in Music Theory and a Graduate Certificate in Music Theory Pedagogy. The area provides a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate courses in support of the School of Music, Dance and Theatre’s many music degree programs. Faculty in the area may also mentor students in MM, DMA and PhD research projects and serve on capstone committees.
Position Description and Essential Functions
The successful candidate will teach undergraduate music theory core courses as well as upper-division undergraduate and graduate music theory courses, which may include courses for popular music on the downtown Phoenix campus and online course development. The School of Music, Dance and Theatre seeks applicants who will contribute a unique voice to the music theory program and who demonstrate excellent teaching that fosters and promotes theory and musicianship skills relevant to the needs of today’s musicians and their futures. We are especially interested in applicants who are dedicated to advancing the ASU Charter and realizing ASU’s Design Aspirations and the mission of the school.
