The Department of Music in the College of Arts and Sciences at Case Western Reserve University invites applications for an appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor on the tenure track, beginning July 1, 2027. The Department seeks a music theorist with a strong teaching record whose research focuses on music theory and analysis, broadly defined, who will contribute to the development of the music theory curriculum. We welcome candidates with research and teaching expertise in areas that expand our core curriculum, particularly early music theory and analysis or global popular and vernacular music traditions. Duties include coordination of the music theory program, a teaching load of two courses per semester (drawn from foundational music theory sequences, aural skills pedagogy, or department electives such as composition, songwriting, or specialized graduate seminars) in addition to a share of departmental student advising, plus service to the department and/or college.
The successful candidate for this position will join a vibrant team of music scholars, artists, and educators. Case Western Reserve University is a leading independent research university that attracts a national and international student body to a range of programs across the liberal arts and sciences, enrolling over 12,000 undergraduate and graduate/professional students. Located in Cleveland’s University Circle , a square-mile urban district of cultural, medical, educational, religious, and social service institutions, CWRU was recently ranked among the top 25 universities in the country by TIME magazine and named a “New Ivy” by Forbes, and is known for faculty with outstanding scholarly reputations and a strong commitment to teaching.
The annual starting base salary range for this position is $75,000-$80,000. CWRU considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and paid time off.
Qualifications
Applicants must have at minimum a completed PhD in music theory (or a PhD in music with a primary, documented specialization in music theory and analysis) by July 31, 2027, an active program of research and publication in music theory and analysis, a demonstrated commitment to excellence in teaching, and the keyboard/musicianship skills necessary to effectively lead core classroom and aural skills instruction.
Application Instructions
Application materials should include:
- A letter of application that addresses research interests, teaching experience, and philosophy of teaching;
- a CV;
- one scholarly writing sample (no longer than an article or book chapter);
- and contact information for three references
All application materials should be submitted via Interfolio. After initial review, applicants may be requested to submit a video sample of recent teaching, a transcript of the highest degree received, or both. Applications should be received by December 1, 2026, to receive full consideration.
