The Department of Music at Adams State University invites applications for a full-time, 1-year appointment in Applied Woodwinds (open to specialty in any woodwind instrument) and Music Education at the rank of Visiting Assistant Professor.
Primary duties of this position include:
Teach applied lessons and performance courses in the woodwind area
Teach Woodwind Methods, Elementary Methods, and Secondary Music Methods
Serve as the primary liaison for all music education matters, including collaborating with the School of Education.
Other teaching areas may be assigned depending upon the qualifications of the candidate and departmental needs.
This is an academic year appointment with a course load of 12 credits per semester. Opportunities for supplemental online teaching in the Master of Arts in Music Education program may be available.
MISSION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC
The Department of Music is an integral part of a liberal arts education and experience at Adams State University, providing innovative, personalized instruction and the skills, practical hands-on learning experiences, and career readiness to become successful, 21st-century music professionals. The Department of Music values diversity, equity, academic and musical excellence, and is committed to community engagement, service, and outreach.
We recognize that women and people of color are often less likely to apply to a position if they don't match 100% of the job qualifications. Don't let that be the reason you miss out on this opportunity! We encourage you to apply if you can demonstrate many of these skills and competencies.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Doctorate in music, specialization in woodwinds. ABD considered.
A strong focus on teaching, scholarship, and creative activities.
Demonstrates knowledge of, sensitivity to, and ability to work effectively with, the educational needs of individuals and groups with a diverse range of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and abilities.
Evidence of responsiveness to and understanding of the racial, socioeconomic, academic, and cultural diversity of Adams State University's student population, including students with different abilities (e.g. physical and or learning) as these factors relate to the need for equity-minded, inclusive practices within the classroom.
Demonstrated commitment to honesty, efficacy, and collaboration.
Ability and willingness to successfully recruit for the department and to work with high school students and directors.
Public school teaching experience. Candidates should be well versed in current music education methodologies and practices.
The Music Department values an inclusive environment that facilitates collegial relationships, encourages mutual understanding among diverse individuals, and leads to addressing issues and differences in an atmosphere where all are valued and affirmed. We warmly invite applications from candidates who thrive in this environment of honesty, efficacy, and collaboration.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Successful record of teaching at the collegiate level.
Master's degree in Music Education.
Demonstrated ability performing in multiple musical styles.
Ability or experience working with historically under-served and/or underrepresented populations, and first-generation college students.
Ability or experience in the recruitment and/or retention of underrepresented students, including students of color.
Commitment to professional development, scholarship, and service to the university and community.
Demonstrated self-awareness of one's own cultural beliefs, perspectives, and privileges as a part of one's orientation towards teaching.
Demonstrated decision-making that is informed by research, data, and theory and that leverages students' unique cultures, experiences, and background as strengths.
SALARY AND BENEFITSThe pay range for this position is $46,593 to $58,241 commensurate with experience and education. In addition to salary, Adams State University offers a competitive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, and retirement savings plans. For detailed benefits information please visit
https://www.adams.edu/hr/benefits/. Opportunities for supplemental pay in the Master of Arts in Music Education program may be available.
How to Apply:
All interested candidates must submit application materials electronically through Adams State University's Workday application portal.{rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"}
No other format of application material will be accepted.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS Cover letter, curriculum vitae, teaching statement, graduate transcripts1, electronic links to a solo performance and a private teaching video, and three references.
A complete application is required and must include:
A detailed cover letter of application addressing teaching interest/experience as well as how professional interests and goals align with Adams State's vision and values.
a. We encourage applicants to discuss their commitment to scholarly and/or creative excellence.
b. Additionally, we seek to learn how scholarly excellence is interwoven with their approach to service, teaching, mentoring, and affirming
diverse perspectives.
Teaching Statement: (include sample course syllabi) in addition to describing your approach to teaching in general, please address the following questions:
a. What do you feel are the best strategies for supporting students who have been historically marginalized in music?
b. What role should faculty play in student success
Undergraduate and graduate transcripts. Official transcripts will be required at the time of hire.
Three professional references (name, affiliation, email address, and phone number) who can address the applicant's qualifications for the position.
An electronic link to a video of an instrumental performance. Teaching videos may be requested at a later date.
If you have questions regarding the position, please contact: Dr. James M. Lind, Search Committee Chair Department of Music Adams State University 208 Edgemont Blvd. Alamosa, CO 81101 Email: mschildt@adams.edu Phone: 719-587-7703
Priority will be given to those completed applications received by Monday, June 1, 2026, and the position will remain open until filled. This appointment begins on August 17, 2026.
Adams State University is committed to building and expanding the talent of its professional staff and actively seeks qualified applicants who bring unique perspectives, experiences, skills, and attributes that can augment the perspectives of our current faculty and staff and can contribute to serving and preparing our students to engage and thrive in their learning, leadership, and service.
We strive to create a more representative workforce that mirrors the people who study, work, and lead our institution and welcome applications from candidates from all walks of life, especially members of communities who fall within state and federally protected classes such as: women, BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities.
We value qualified candidates, with varied language skills, who have a record of successful experience with varied communities and student populations, and who have a deep understanding of and commitment to the unique geographical and historical characteristics of the place we are situated in and the intersecting perspectives that define our university being a low-income, first-generation, and Hispanic-serving, rural anchor university. Therefore, we seek individuals committed to intentionally supporting students and colleagues who possess these characteristics through their teaching, service, and sch
