Director of Orchestras
Associate Professor or Professor of Conducting
The Northwestern University Henry and Leigh Bienen School of Music invites applications for a tenured appointment as Director of Orchestras at the rank of Associate or Full Professor, beginning September 1, 2027. The Bienen School of Music educates exceptional students in an environment that values both musical and academic excellence. The school offers conservatory-level training within a top-ranked university and features a dedicated faculty, unparalleled facilities, and proximity to the vibrant music community of Chicago.
Responsibilities:
The Director of Orchestras will provide forward-looking artistic and curricular leadership for Northwestern’s comprehensive orchestra program; teach and recruit graduate conducting students; supervise doctoral committees; and participate actively and collaboratively in the activities of a school of music in a research university. This person will inspire outstanding musicianship through symphonic, operatic, and contemporary repertoire, and foster an inviting culture of engagement across the school’s conducting and applied studio faculty.
Required Qualifications:
Candidates should have an established national and/or international reputation as an orchestral and/or opera conductor; a commitment to artistry and professionalism; a proven record of successful recruitment and teaching; and a Master of Music degree or equivalent professional experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
Ideal candidates should have an international reputation, record of successful teaching in a school or conservatory of music within a university, and a doctoral degree.
Salary:
The expected base pay based on rank is as follows:
Associate Professor: $150,000-$170,000
Professor: $170,000-$195,000
Northwestern University has provided a pay range representing its good faith estimate of what the university reasonably expects to pay for the position. The pay offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors including (but not limited to) the experience and qualifications of the selected candidate; years since terminal degree, training, and field or discipline; departmental budget availability; internal equity; and external market pay for comparable jobs.
Application:
Screening begins August 15, 2026, and continues until position is filled. Candidates must submit:
- a letter of application
- a curriculum vitae
- links to video recordings of recent rehearsals and performances (approx. 15 minutes for each)
- a statement of teaching and artistic philosophies
- names and contact information of three references
Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at hr.northwestern.edu/benefits/ to learn more.
Questions:
Questions should be directed to Professor Andrew Megill, Search Committee Chair, at andrew.megill@northwestern.edu. Visit www.music.northwestern.edu for information regarding the Bienen School of Music.