Jun 04, 2026

Violin & Viola Instructor (Special Contract Faculty)

Job Description

Job ID: 2959257

Location: Minot

Full/Part Time: Full-Time

Position Description & Details

Job Summary:

The Department of Fine and Performing Arts at Minot State University invites applicants for the position of Instructor of Violin & Viola beginning August 2026. This position requires expertise in classical violin and viola performance and pedagogy, and significant chamber music experience. The successful candidate will be expected to:
  • Teach private violin and viola lessons to music majors, music minors, and students pursuing a concentration in music.
  • Coach chamber music ensembles.
  • Teach courses based on experience and department need.
  • Effectively recruit, sustain, and build a studio.
  • Oversee the inventory of high string instruments in the MSU collection, including several Baroque instruments with gut strings (modern makers).
  • Serve as concertmaster in the Minot Symphony Orchestra.

The position is at least half-time with benefits. Salary will depend on teaching load needed each year. This position is a three-year position; extension beyond this term will be evaluated in year three based on enrollment and department/university needs.

The Music program at Minot State University serves orchestra, band, choir, and keyboard students from across the campus. The strings program is an integral part of the Minot Symphony Orchestra, the Dakota Chamber Music Institute, the Western Plains Opera Company, Community Rocks, the annual production of the Messiah, and many more community opportunities and boasts the only collection of Baroque string instruments in the state of North Dakota.

Minimum required qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Music Performance or Music Education (primary instrument violin or viola)
  • Evidence of excellence in applied instruction and performance
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Doctoral degree in Music Performance or Music Education (primary instrument violin or viola)
  • Middle school and/or high school instrumental teaching experience
  • Previous college teaching experience
As part of the application, candidates will be asked to submit:
  • A letter of application addressing their specific qualifications for the position
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Unofficial copies of all academic transcripts
  • A list of three professional references including name, title, telephone number, and email address
  • Online links to recent videos of solo and chamber performances.
Review of Applications:

Review will begin immediately and will be ongoing until the position is filled.

Contact:

Any questions related to this position should be directed to Dr. Sophia Rammell-Thrailkill via email at charlotte.rammell@minotstateu.edu.

Screening

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.



Additional Information

Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Statement:
Minot State University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origins, disability or other protected characteristic. Women, minorities veterans, individual with disabilities, and members of other underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants are invited to provide information regarding their gender, race and/or ethnicity, veteran's status and disability status as part of the application process. This information will remain confidential and separate from your application.
All information listed in this position announcement will be used by Human Resources, the Hiring Department, and EO/Title IX for screening, interviewing and selection purposes.

Confidentiality of Application Materials:
Pursuant to the NDCC 44-04-18.27, applications and any records related t the applications that identify an applicant are confidential, except records relate to the finalists of the position, which are open to the public after the search committee has identified the top three finalists who will be invited to campus.

Veteran's Preference:
Veteran's claiming preference must submit all proof of eligibility by the closing date. Proof of eligibility included a DD-214 or NGB 22 and if claiming disabled status, a current letter of disability from the VA within the last 12 months.

Clery Statement:
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy ad Campus Crime Statistics Act, Minot State University publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. The report includes the University's policies, procedures and programs concerning safety and security, as well at three years' worth of crime statics for our campus. As a prospective employee, you are entitled to a copy of this report. The report and statistical data can be found online. You may also request a paper copy of the report from the MSU Office of Safety and Security located at 500 University Ave W, Minot, ND, 58707.

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