Percussion Instructor

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

The Percussion Instructor provides instruction, coaching, and artistic leadership to university students participating in percussion ensembles, marching band, concert band, pep band, and other university musical programs. The instructor is responsible for developing students' technical proficiency, musicality, performance skills, discipline, and teamwork while supporting the University's academic, cultural, and student-engagement mission. The position works collaboratively with music faculty, band directors, coaches, and university staff to prepare students for high-quality performances and campus events.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual and group instruction in percussion techniques, musicianship, performance, and ensemble skills.
• Teach fundamentals of snare drum, bass drum, tenor drums, cymbals, mallet percussion, auxiliary percussion, and other applicable instruments.
• Develop and implement structured lessons, rehearsals, sectionals, clinics, and workshops.
• Assist with the preparation and instruction of university marching band, concert band, pep band, percussion ensemble, and other approved musical groups.
• Teach proper playing techniques, posture, stick/mallet control, rhythm, timing, dynamics, tone production, and musical interpretation.
• Develop and teach marching percussion exercises, cadences, warm-ups, show music, and performance material as assigned.
• Assist with arranging, adapting, and preparing percussion parts for performances.
• Evaluate student progress and provide constructive feedback to improve technical and musical development.
• Maintain an environment that promotes discipline, teamwork, creativity, professionalism, and school spirit.
• Prepare students for football games, basketball games, concerts, competitions, pep rallies, parades, ceremonies, recruitment events, and other university activities.
• Coordinate with the Director of Bands and other instructors regarding rehearsal schedules, performance expectations, student assignments, and program objectives.
• Assist with auditions, placement, recruitment, workshops, and orientation activities for percussion students.
• Maintain accurate records of student attendance, participation, progress, and performance assignments.
• Assist with percussion equipment inventory, maintenance, transportation, setup, storage, and security.
• Ensure students follow appropriate safety procedures when handling and transporting instruments and equipment.
• Assist with loading, unloading, setup, and breakdown of percussion equipment for rehearsals and performances.
• Identify equipment needs and communicate repair, replacement, or purchasing recommendations to the appropriate department representative.
• Support student retention and engagement by providing mentorship and encouraging participation in university music programs.
• Serve as a positive representative of the University at performances, competitions, community events, and other public engagements.
• Participate in departmental meetings, professional development, performances, and special events as assigned.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when working with students, faculty, staff, and external partners.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Music, Music Education, Percussion Performance, or a related field; equivalent professional experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated proficiency in percussion performance and instruction.
• Experience working with percussion ensembles, marching bands, concert bands, or collegiate/high school music programs.
• Must be able to lift up to 10 pounds.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact Askhr@vuu.edu.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.