Full-time Faculty, Songwriting

Job Description:

Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, is actively seeking applicants for a full time faculty position within its esteemed Songwriting Department. As one of the globe's leading independent music colleges, Berklee stands as a pinnacle institution dedicated to the exploration and advancement of contemporary music. At Berklee, a vibrant community thrives, of exceptionally talented and diverse students, revered faculty members, over 500 committed staff, and a network of accomplished alumni. Berklee's commitment to arts education is reflected in the work of its students, faculty, and alumni - who have been recognized with 332 Grammy Awards, 118 Latin Grammy Awards, 31 Emmy Awards, 7 Academy Awards, and 11 Tony Awards. 

Renowned for pioneering contemporary music education, Berklee established the inaugural college-level songwriting major in 1987. Since then, the institution has remained at the forefront of evolving and refining the study of songcraft, consistently pushing boundaries and innovating within the field. The Songwriting Department boasts a distinguished faculty of thirty-one globally recognized experts. Their collective mission extends beyond teaching songwriting; it’s about nurturing a holistic skill set, weaving together the threads of creativity and technique. 

The department is responsible for shaping the educational path of 425 majors, as well as students from other disciplines who view songwriting as a supplementary area of study. The meticulously designed curriculum caters to the multifaceted nature of songwriting across five distinct focal points. Beyond these concentrations, students delve into various facets of songwriting, exploring creativity, the business side of the craft, utilization of music technologies, emerging trends in the field, business strategies, and the critical examination of renowned songwriters. Moreover, the curriculum places a significant emphasis on situating songs within their cultural, social, and historical contexts. In addition to the major, the department also oversees the Music Theater Writing Minor and offers several summer programs. The department also manages and promotes an array of events for songwriters who wish to perform original songs, writer camps and screenings with industry professionals, master classes, clinics with influential songwriters, and industry trips to music hubs like Nashville, Miami, NYC, and Los Angeles. 

This position assumes multifaceted participation teaching, curriculum innovation, faculty mentoring, student guidance, and the cultivation of an engaging learning environment. The ideal candidate demonstrates an established track record of high-level professional songwriting achievements. They exhibit a deep comprehension of the workings of the music industry, coupled with a proactive approach and a collaborative mindset. Essential qualities include strong collegiality, a positive demeanor, and a readiness to align with Berklee's aspirations concerning Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. A steadfast dedication to fostering student experiences, displaying strong initiative, and maintaining a positive outlook are imperative traits for this role.

Duties and Responsibilities for Full Time Faculty: 

• Primary obligation is to Berklee and to support the mission of the department, division, and college

• Teach, Advise, and perform related duties as outlined in the faculty agreement 

• Perform service to the college and service to the profession 

• Serve on committees as assigned by the department chair, divisions dean, and/or provost 

• Participate in Berklee-sponsored and administered diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility programming

• Attend College-wide events (e.g., New Faculty Orientation, Opening Day, BTOT)

• Attend department meetings as informed and contribute to the faculty community of the Songwriting Department, Professional Writing & Technology Division, and Berklee

• Teach courses as assigned within the major covering Songwriting and Production, with a focus on Business, Career/Artist Development, Directed Study, and electives in the area of the candidate’s expertise

• Maintain high standards of integrity in the conduct of duties

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience 

• Maintain an on-campus teaching presence in Boston, MA

• Teaching experience, college level preferred

• Willingness to adhere to a struct