Performing Arts Program - Assistant Director of Choral Programs

Sacred Heart University • Fairfield, CT

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Choral Programs will assist the Director of Choral Programs in the administration, coordination, and artistic direction of all choral programs. Sacred Heart University is a national leader in shaping higher education for the 21st century, offering a wide range of programs across its nine colleges and schools. As a contemporary Catholic university rooted in the liberal arts, SHU cultivates forward-thinking students. The Princeton Review recognizes SHU in its Best 391 Colleges: 2026 Edition and Best Business Schools: 2025 Edition. The University is home to WSHU Public Radio, a Division I athletics program, and an impressive performing arts program.

Requirements

• Minimum of M.M. Degree in Choral Conducting, Vocal Performance, Piano, or Organ.
• Demonstrated history of strong administrative and leadership skills
• Significant experience directing/accompanying high school, university, or liturgical choirs and a cappella ensembles
• Excellent interpersonal skills for relating to a diverse student population.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Word & Excel, Adobe Creative Suite, and a professional music notation software (Finale, Sibelius,or Dorico)
• Strong desire to help grow and improve the quality, diversity, and size of a university choral program with a focus on student experience
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Assist in implementation of all strategic goals for the program, both artistic and administrative, as directed by Director of Choral Programs.
• Serve as primary conductor for up to three ensembles as assigned.
• Serve as primary Accompanist/Assistant Conductor for up to two ensembles as assigned; lead weekly sectional rehearsals; lead rehearsals when the Director cannot be present.
• Be available as substitute conductor/accompanist to all university choral ensembles as needed.
• Lead choral ensembles in a busy performance schedule comprising on and off campus concerts and events (examples of on-campus events include Academic Convocations, Baccalaureate Masses, Commencement, etc.).
• Support recruitment of students for Choral Program through outreach to high school choral programs, auditioning prospective students, and presence at Open Houses, Accepted Student Days, Orientation Days, and other admissions/recruitment events as assigned.
• Support all activities of the Choral Program’s Student Executive Board.
• Foster and maintain a working relationship with the academic music program in the School of Performing Arts.
• Foster and maintain a working relationship with Campus Ministries to provide quality liturgical music for on-campus services.
• Support retention efforts within the choir program through intentional one-on-one meetings with students and attendance at choir events.
• Supervise work-study students and hourly employees of the Choral Program; review and approve timesheets.
• Assist with all administrative tasks required for the smooth operation of the choral program as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level