Institution: University of South Dakota, Department of Music Location: Vermillion, South Dakota (On-campus) Type: Full-time, Nine-month, Tenure-track
About the Role:
This position calls for an Assistant Professor specializing in Tenor, Baritone, or Bass Voice. Responsibilities include teaching studio voice lessons, possibly directing in the opera program, offering courses in pedagogy, diction, and song literature, serving on graduate committees, supervising independent study projects, and participating in recruitment efforts. Some online teaching may also be part of the role.
Appointment Details:
Starts August 22, 2026
Posting is open until filled, with first consideration to applications received by September 15, 2025
Requirements:
Ph.D. in vocal performance, vocal pedagogy, or closely related field (ABD considered if degree will be completed by start date)
Application Materials Required:
Cover letter
Curriculum vitae
Unofficial transcripts
Links to recent solo performance and teaching videos (e.g., YouTube)
Would you relocate to South Dakota for a tenure-track voice professorship—teaching studio voice, shaping the opera program, and building a career in higher education? Or would you hold out for a different academic or performance opportunity?
Looks good if you want a stable TT line and don’t mind a small town — Vermillion’s quiet, gigs might mean driving to Sioux Falls. Anyone know the salary range and typical studio size for low voices there? Also curious about teaching load and how heavy the recruiting travel is.
I guest-taught there last spring; the T/B/B studios were roughly 14–18 students with a lot of non-majors, and I drove to Sioux Falls for most paid gigs. If you apply, ask about guaranteed accompanist hours and how much recruiting travel they expect — those two details really shape your weekly load.
I visited last year — collegial faculty and a strong choral pipeline, but you’ll likely be driving to Sioux Falls for gigs and the winters are rough; make sure accompanist hours and PD/travel are baked into the offer. Anyone know the current salary band?
Link to view more job details or apply