The Music Department at Brandeis University seeks a Jazz Ensemble Director for academic year 2026 -2027. The Ensemble Director is responsible for all aspects of directing Jazz Ensemble(s) at Brandeis. Ensemble directors are expected to maintain an active professional presence (creative, scholarly and/or pedagogical) outside of Brandeis University.

 Programming, Rehearsal, and Performance

• Instructor of MUS 83a and MUS 83bb - Jazz Ensemble
• Preparation and performance of 1-2 ensemble concerts each semester.
• Lead weekly rehearsals of ensemble, as well as additional coaching sessions and/or sectional rehearsals as needed
• Hiring and scheduling extra players/soloists as necessary (paid via separate ensemble budget)
• Prepare publicity and program materials including program notes and artwork in collaboration with Concerts Manager

Performance materials

• Acquisition and preparation of performance parts, including transposition for specific instrumentation when necessary (paid via separate ensemble budget)
• Composing/arranging music for specific instrumentation of ensemble as needed

Management

• Schedule introductory meetings and auditions at the start of each semester as needed
• Support ensemble recruitment as appropriate, e.g., Activities Fair, Family Weekend Concert, etc.
• Manage ensemble budget
• Oversee setup and breakdown of each rehearsal and performance
• Maintain ensemble library and repertory lists
• Record ensemble attendance and follow up with attendance issues
• Keep track of registration and grading
• Arrange scheduling and transportation of equipment and personnel for any off-campus concerts
• Maintain ensemble instruments

Candidates with MA, DMA, or PhD, and experience leading ensembles and teaching in a college setting will be given preference. Interested individuals should submit a cover letter, CV, and names and contact information for two references.

This appointment is to a position that is in a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 509. 

Compensation for this role is $17,528.40.

About Brandeis University

As a medium-sized private research university with global reach, we are dedicated to first-rate undergraduate education while making groundbreaking discoveries. Four major academic units with 3,600 undergraduates and 2,050 graduate students comprise the University: the College of Arts and Sciences, the Heller School for Social Policy and Management, the International Business School, and the Rabb School of Continuing Studies. In 1985, Brandeis was elected to membership in the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), which represents the 62 leading research universities in the United States and Canada. Brandeis has been ranked among the top 35 national universities by U.S. News & World Report every year since the rankings’ inception. Our 235-acre campus is located in the suburbs of Boston, a global hub for higher education and innovation. Our faculty are leaders in their fields, as passionate about teaching and mentorship as they are about pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Our students are motivated, compassionate, curious and open to exploring new and challenging experiences. Brandeis was founded in 1948 as a nonsectarian university under the sponsorship of th...e American Jewish community to embody its highest ethical and cultural values and to express its gratitude to the United States through the traditional Jewish commitment to education. By being a nonsectarian university that welcomes students, teachers and staff of every nationality, religion and orientation, Brandeis renews the American heritage of cultural diversity, equal access to opportunity and freedom of expression.

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