Assistant Director of Choral and Vocal Coaching

As the second-largest independent Catholic university in New England, and one of the fastest-growing private doctoral institutions in the U.S., Sacred Heart University is a national leader in shaping higher education for the 21st century. SHU offers nearly 90 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and certificate programs on its Fairfield, Conn., campus. Sacred Heart also has a campus in Dingle, Ireland, and offers online programs. More than 10,000 students attend the University’s eight colleges and schools: Arts & Sciences; Communication, Media & the Arts; Social Work; Computer Science & Engineering; Health Professions; the Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development; the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology; and the Dr. Susan L. Davis, R.N., & Richard J. Henley College of Nursing. Sacred Heart stands out from other Catholic institutions as it was established and led by laity. 

Sacred Heart University is a contemporary Catholic university rooted in the rich Catholic intellectual tradition and the liberal arts that cultivates students to be forward thinkers who enact change—in their own lives, professions and in their communities. SHU upholds a universal perspective, welcoming and valuing diverse faith traditions, including those from religious and nonreligious backgrounds. This catholicity, which is the basis of inclusivity, enriches dialogue, deepens understanding and strengthens our commitment to creating a more compassionate and just world.

The Princeton Review includes SHU in its Best 388 Colleges–2023 Edition, and Best Business Schools–2023 Edition. Sacred Heart is home to the award-winning, NPR-affiliated radio station, WSHU, a Division I athletics program and an impressive performing arts program that includes choir, band, dance and theatre. www.sacredheart.edu 
 
To apply

Only applications submitted through the official Careers at SHU site will be accepted for employment consideration. If you are viewing this job advertisement through a different site, please visit Careers at SHU to submit a formal application.

Qualified candidates are invited to submit a complete application and resume via our online application system. A cover letter or statement of interest is also preferred for all staff positions.

Sacred Heart University complies with all federal and state employment laws and regulations. Applicants must be lawfully authorized to work for any employer in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa for this position.

Position Summary

The Assistant Director of Choral and Vocal Coaching is responsible for providing vocal coaching to Choral Program students, accompanying choirs as assigned, and enhancing the overall Performing Arts student experience. This role involves working with students to develop their individual and group vocal skills, preparing them for performances, and fostering a vibrant musical community within the university.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide individual and group vocal coaching to students at all levels of proficiency.
• Provide skilled and researched leadership from the piano as a rehearsal leader, pianist, and diction coach.
• Accompany choir rehearsals as assigned, lead sectional rehearsals, and conduct full rehearsals when the primary ensemble conductor is absent.
• Assist in the creation, implementation and oversight of the Badge and Certificate programs in vocal performance and related fields.
• Develop and implement vocal training programs that enhance students' technical skills, musicality, and performance abilities.
• Collaborate with the Director of Choral Programs to integrate Vocal Performance into the broader music curriculum.
• Organize and participate in student recitals, concerts, and other performances on and off campus.
• Mentor and support students in their personal and professional development, offering guidance on vocal health, performance techniques, and career opportunities.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and provide feedback and assessments as needed.
• Stay current with trends and best practices in vocal pedagogy and choral conducting.
• Participate in departmental meetings, committees, and other university-related activities.
• Assist with recruitment efforts by participating in auditions, open houses, and other outreach events.
• Ensure compliance with university policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
• Perform administrative duties as assigned, including supervising work-study students.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Attributes

• Master's degree in Collaborative Piano, Piano Performance, or a related field required; DMA preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in vocal coaching and/or choral conducting, preferably in an academic setting.
• Strong background in vocal pedagogy and a comprehensive understanding of various vocal techniques and styles.
• Ability to coach diction in English, Latin, Italian, French, and German and instruct in the use of IPA. Ability to coach additional languages, including Spanish, Russian, and Scandinavian, is an asset.
• Demonstrated success in coaching or conducting recital, oratorio, or operatic performances.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of students, faculty, and staff.
• Strong commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Unusual Working Conditions

Flexible hours are required, including evenings and weekends, as required by choir schedules, rehearsals, performances, and university events.

This job posting provides an overview of the role's general nature and expected tasks. It is not meant to be a comprehensive list of all duties performed. The university reserves the right to modify or reassign job responsibilities at any time. This posting description does not constitute an employment contract, either explicit or implied.