Director of Opera

THE UNIVERSITY OF UTAH SCHOOL OF MUSIC

ANNOUNCES A TENURE-TRACK POSITION OF

DIRECTOR OF OPERA

RANK/SALARY: Assistant/Associate Professor, tenure-track appointment. Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.

DUTIES: (1) Teach Opera Workshop class for undergraduate and graduate performance students. (2) Assist with role preparation and stagecraft for opera productions, and provide individualized coaching to singers on interpretation, diction, dramatic expression, and stage presence. (3) Direct staged opera scenes and/or full productions in collaboration with the opera program’s principal coach, conductor, and production team. (4) Mentor students on all aspects of professional preparation, including repertoire selection, audition technique, career strategy, and industry networking. (5) Collaborate with faculty colleagues in voice, collaborative piano, conducting, and other areas to integrate performance training with the department’s curricular goals. (6) Maintain an active profile as a performer, director, or other industry professional, contributing to the visibility and prestige of the program. (7) Participate in departmental, college, and university service, including recruitment, auditions, and outreach activities.

QUALIFICATIONS: (1) Master’s degree in vocal performance, opera, or a closely related field (doctoral degree preferred). (2) Significant professional experience as an opera singer, opera director, or vocal coach at the national or international level. (3) Demonstrated success in teaching opera performance, acting for singers, or related subjects at the collegiate or conservatory level. (4) Proven ability to mentor emerging artists in artistic, technical, and career development. (5) Excellent communication and collaborative skills.

ADDITIONAL PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Experience producing or directing full-scale operatic productions. Established professional network within the opera and classical music industry. Ability to teach additional courses such as acting, movement, or vocal literature.

PROCEDURE: The letter of application, curriculum vitae (including the names, telephone numbers, and email addresses of 3 to 5 persons who can provide a reference), succinct teaching/directing philosophy statement, (unofficial) copies of undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and links to a rehearsal video AND a production performance video (university level) demonstrating a variety of musical styles must be submitted electronically via: https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/205338. The review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position has been filled. Review of candidate submissions will begin September 1, 2026 and candidates should submit by that date to ensure full consideration. Candidates who proceed to the second stage will need to submit 3 confidential letters of recommendation, and those who advance to the final level will be required to participate in a routine FBI background check. For more information, or to suggest nominations for this position, contact: Kirstin Chávez (k.chavez@utah.edu) or Julie Wright-Costa (julie.wrightcosta@utah.edu)