General Summary:
Edward Waters University, Florida’s first historically Black college/university and an emerging institution of distinction, seeks a visionary Director of Bands to lead its growing and high-profile band program. The Director of Bands will oversee all aspects of the university’s ensembles, including the Marching Band, Concert Band, Pep Band, and Jazz Band. This position will support EWU’s institutional momentum in academic excellence, enrollment growth, student experience, and community engagement.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership for all EWU band programs, ensuring alignment with the institution’s mission, values, and student-centered focus.
- Supervise rehearsals, performances, staff, and operational logistics for the Marching Band and all related ensembles.
- Manage budgets, equipment inventory, uniforms, travel planning, and procurement of musical assets.
- Oversee assistant directors, support staff, and auxiliary coaches (e.g., color guard, dancers, majorettes).
- Collaborate with key campus stakeholders such as Athletics, Enrollment Management, Student Affairs, and Institutional Advancement.
- Ensure compliance with EWU, conference, and accreditation expectations.
- Lead a robust year-round recruitment strategy to support EWU’s enrollment growth goals.
- Build strong relationships with regional band directors, high schools, community music programs, and arts organizations.
- Host campus band camps, recruitment days, auditions, and scholarship evaluations.
- Partner with EWU Admissions and Enrollment Management on strategic recruitment initiatives.
- Direct high-quality performances for EWU athletic events, university ceremonies, parades, concerts, and community showcases.
- Advance the EWU marching band identity with innovative HBCU-style performances that elevate spirit and visibility, while maintaining EWU’s Triple Threat traditions and identity.
- Oversee creative and technical production of halftime shows, field formations, musical selections, and auxiliary routines.
- Serve as an ambassador for EWU at regional and national music conferences, festivals, and competitions.
- Strengthen alumni and donor engagement to enhance program funding and visibility.
- Promote a culture of professionalism, pride, and commitment within the band program, reflecting EWU’s legacy and mission.
Qualifications
Required:
- Master’s degree in music, Music Education, Conducting, or a closely related field, or a minimum of seven to 10 years of experience as a collegiate assistant band director or director.
- Documented experience directing marching and concert band programs, preferably in a collegiate or large high-school setting.
- Demonstrated expertise in HBCU show design, drill writing, arranging, and conducting.
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
- Commitment to the mission of Edward Waters University and understanding of HBCU band culture.
- Minimum of seven to 10 years of experience as a collegiate assistant band director or director.
Preferred:
- Doctorate in Music or related field.
- Experience working within an HBCU band program or similar large-ensemble environment.
- Successful record of collegiate-level teaching.
- Experience with program development, fundraising, and alumni engagement.
- Familiarity with EWU’s institutional mission and commitment to student success.
Working/Environmental Conditions:
- Must be available for evening and weekend rehearsals, athletic events, and travel.
- Ability to travel with the band for performances, competitions, and recruitment events.
- Physical capacity to support field rehearsals and extended event schedules.
Application Requirements:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae or résumé
- Sample drill charts and/or musical arrangements (if requested)
- Three professional letters of recommendation
- Official or unofficial transcripts
Application Instructions:
To be considered for this position, applicants must apply through HigherEdJobs.com. Please submit a cv/resume, cover letter and official transcripts to complete your application. The email address to send cv/resume and letter of interest is careers@ewc.edu.
