• Teaching Artist - Voice, Theater Arts

    Drake University (Des Moines, IA)


    Title: Teaching Artist, Theater Arts

     

    Position Number: 200095

     

    Unit/Department: Theater Arts

     

    Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications of the selected candidate

    Department Summary:

    The mission of the Department of Theatre Arts at Drake is to ensure students have the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve success as theatre artists and working professionals. To that end, the curriculum fosters understanding and appreciation for all aspects of theatre utilizing collaborative and experiential learning methods. Students apply knowledge and demonstrate skills acquired in the classroom in the creation of theatrical productions throughout the academic year. This mission isn't simply a statement, it's a philosophy and a guiding principle of the way we teach the art and craft of theatre at Drake. We believe in balance in our curriculum, our productions and in life. At Drake students receive a conservatory degree within a liberal arts institution. They are encouraged to pursue passions outside of theatre. We take a holistic approach to education. Students take classes not just in their area of specialization, but in all aspects of theatre as well as the broader Drake Curriculum. In the Department of Theatre Arts, we are a family. We take care of each other and thrive in collaborative environments. We are looking for someone like-minded to join our theatre family!

    Job Summary:

    Drake University invites applications for a Teaching Artist of Voice with the expertise to teach both musical theatre and classical genres. This position begins January 26, 2026.

     

    The successful candidate will teach private applied voice for theatre majors and minors, leading to healthy musical theatre and classical vocal technique and excellent musicianship. This includes preparing students for auditions and musical theatre roles. Attendance at studio performance classes and other departmental events is expected.

     

    Applied Teaching Load is approximately 20 hours of studio voice teaching each week with bimonthly studio classes. The Spring 2026 semester runs from January 26 - May 15.

    Minimum Qualifications:

    • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance, Pedagogy, or other vocal specialization.

    • Experience: 3 year work-related experience

    Preferred Qualifications:

    • Education: Master’s degree or higher

    • Experience: A proven record of at least four years of successful vocal studio teaching experience.

    • The availability to teach regular weekly lessons during each 14-week semester.

    • Advanced knowledge of teaching repertoire in musical theatre.

    • Experience using IPA.

    • Experience with planning, programming, and coaching undergraduate degree recitals and musical theatre role preparation.

    • Piano skills commensurate with vocal exercises and simple accompaniments.

    • Evidence of a strong background and current experience in vocal performance or pedagogy.

    Salary and Benefits:

    At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts. If you are exploring a job with Drake University, we invite you to spend a little time with our Drake Benefits Guide 2025 (https://www.drake.edu/media/departmentsoffices/humanresources/documents/2025%20Benefits%20Guide11.13.2024.pdf) . One of our popular policies provides a tuition waiver for Drake employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents. Drake also participates in not one, but two tuition exchange programs available to dependent children. Tuition Benefits (https://www.drake.edu/hr/benefitsoverview/tuitionbenefits/)

    Special Instructions to Applicants:

    Qualified candidates should apply online and submit a cover letter that includes a concise statement of teaching philosophy, a curriculum vitae, and the contact information for three professional references electronically. Only complete, electronic submissions will be considered. Please do not send further materials (recordings, teaching evaluations, publications) unless requested. If you have any questions about this job positing or the application process, please email [email protected] .

    Review of Applications Begins:

    A review of applications will begin immediately. This position will remain open until filled.