A music professor is a person who teaches music courses at a university or college. He or she is usually very active in a school band, orchestra, or performing arts company, assisting with event planning and rehearsals. A music professor may also serve on committees that work to improve university policies and develop music programs. Before becoming a professor, most professionals must obtain doctoral degrees in music and work for several years at a university.
The majority of music professors are accomplished musicians who have spent years studying an instrument in order to master it. They must have a thorough understanding of music theory and be able to communicate it to students of all levels. A music professor may teach general music appreciation courses, specialize in teaching students who play a specific instrument, or do both. Music teachers, like other professors, are often in charge of developing a solid curriculum, administering tests, grading papers and performances, and assisting students in making academic and professional decisions.
University orchestras, bands, and choirs are frequently directed by talented professors. They may also take on administrative responsibilities, such as organizing events, acquiring necessary uniforms, instruments, and other materials, and raising funds, in addition to leading practices and performances. A music professor might be in charge of obtaining the rights to use a specific piece of music, or of creating an entirely original score, either alone or with his or her students.
A music professor can join school committees to help maintain academic standards and provide opportunities for students in a college’s music department. He or she could assist in the analysis of policies and procedures, determining the need for additional funding or programs, and brainstorming ideas for how to improve the department. To ensure the success of students and programs, a professor may write official reports and requests, organize school and community-wide meetings, and communicate directly with other university authorities.
A doctoral degree, teaching credentials, and demonstration of proficiency with one or more instruments are usually required of someone who wants to be a music professor. To gain experience, many aspiring music professors work as teaching assistants or actual instructors while in graduate school. Individuals typically begin applying for faculty positions after graduation by submitting resumes and samples of their musical accomplishments. Before becoming a full music professor, a person may be required to work as an assistant professor for seven years or more.