Job description

La Mirada, CA

The Conservatory of Music at Biola University seeks a vibrant and dynamic conductor, educator, and administrator to serve as Director for its Strings and Orchestral Studies program. In this capacity, this individual will conduct the Biola Symphony Orchestra and will also oversee the chamber music program. A terminal degree, along with previous full-time teaching experience, are preferred. The candidate will oversee string faculty (adjunct faculty and applied lesson instructors) and may be asked to teach additional courses based on the candidate’s qualifications and the needs of the Conservatory (Conducting, Music Appreciation, Music History, applied lessons, etc.).

Recruiting is essential to this position. The applicant will be expected to display evidence of successful recruiting at previous institutions. Mentoring and retention of students are also key components; in this respect, it is especially important that this individual should be able to display and articulate a dynamic faith in Jesus Christ, along with their affirmation of Biola’s theological positions.

As a conductor, the candidate should be committed to innovative programming that is engaging to both the performer and listener. They should be ready and willing to collaborate with other areas within the Conservatory to provide student and faculty performance opportunities for operas, musicals, concertos, arias, and original compositions. A commitment to academic excellence and the ability to communicate and work effectively as a team player with faculty, students, and staff is expected.

About Biola University
Biola University is a private Christian university that serves a student population of over 6,000. Located in La Mirada, CA, Biola University is situated on the border between Los Angeles and Orange Counties, home to one of the most diverse metropolitan areas in the world. This affords our students with strong opportunities for internships, job placement, service learning projects, and networking. For more information, please visit www.biola.edu.

The Biola Conservatory of Music is home to a diverse community of musicians and artists dedicated to achieving excellence in the performing arts. With programs ranging from music performance and music education to theatre and music therapy, the Conservatory offers different avenues for our students to explore their artistic voice. The Conservatory is fully accredited by NASM.
SALARY: Commensurate with experience and qualifications

How to apply

Applications are now being accepted. For a complete application package, please include the following:

• Cover Letter
• Current CV/Resume
• Christian testimony
• Links to recent digital video recordings of the applicant conducting an orchestra rehearsal (20-30 minutes in length), and three selections in performance. All examples should be recent (from the last 5 years).

Review of applications will begin November 1, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. The search will be conducted with a commitment to confidentiality for candidates until finalists are selected.
Range: $82,047 – $96,134