Adjunct Faculty - Music - Diction for Singers (English and Italian) and Applied Voice Lessons

Job Description

Job Description

The College is interested in seeking candidates to teach Diction for Singers (English and Italian) and Applied Voice Lessons in the Fall 2026 semester at our downtown campus. Diction for Singers meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 - 5:30. There may be opportunities to teach additional music courses as needed.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for teaching and a commitment to student success, ensuring a high-quality learning experience for all students.

Adjunct needs are determined on a semester by semester basis, as are the number of sections offered each semester. GRCC classes are held at a variety of times, Monday through Saturday in different modalities such as Hybrid, Online & Virtual. For semester start and end dates, see GRCC’s Academic Calendar.

Requisition ID:
Employee Group: Adjunct Faculty
Schedule: Fall Semester
Compensation: Adjunct Faculty
Reports to: Associate Dean - School of Liberal Arts
Posting Opens: 5/19/2026

Posting Closes: Open until filled

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Teach GRCC course offering(s) in Diction for Singers and Applied Voice Lessons.

• Teach Diction for Singers, focused on English and Italian diction.

• Teach weekly one-on-one applied voice lessons to music majors, secondary applied students, and personal interest students.

• Prepare students for juries, recitals, auditions, and other performance opportunities.

• Participate in jury evaluations, performance class, and departmental performances when appropriate.

• Communicate/coordinate with the collaborative pianist faculty and ensemble directors.

• Mentor students in vocal technique, healthy voice practices, and stylistically appropriate repertoire.

• Perform tasks normally expected of adjunct faculty members:

• Follow the required syllabus template.

• Use the required textbook as determined by the department.

• Meet classes during the time scheduled and for the appropriate length of time required by the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

• State course outcomes clearly at the beginning of the course and state the criteria and procedures for evaluating student attainment of these objectives.

• Promote an intellectually stimulating atmosphere in the classroom which is conducive to the attainment of high academic achievement and stated course outcomes.

• Keep accurate student academic records.

• Report grades by contractual deadline.

• Make reasonable accommodations as approved by the Disability Support Services to meet students’ needs and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

• Follow College policy on the Family Educational Right to Privacy Act (FERPA).

• Make all reasonable efforts to respond to communication in a timely manner and provide reasonable means for student access to course information.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Music - Vocal Performance or comparable degree from an accredited institution required.

• Successful applied voice teaching experience to students at varying stages of vocal development is required.

• Experience working with adults from diverse backgrounds and with varying academic skills.

• Participation in professional development and/or continuous improvement activities in order to remain current in the field.

• Teaching experience at a community college preferred.

Skills

• Expert knowledge of IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet)

• Expertise in vocal pedagogy and vocal health.

• Knowledge of broad and diverse repertoire for voice

• Experience teaching and performing vocal diction in multiple languages

• Basic piano proficiency sufficient to teach applied voice lessons.

• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work effectively with a diverse student population and faculty team.

• Proficiency in using instructional technology and learning management systems (e.g.,Gmail, Canvas, Blackboard).

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Physical Demands

• Some evening work (performances, grading, preparing for class, responding to email questions) will be needed.

• Must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time.

Mental Demands

• An understanding of and appreciation for the community college philosophy and student population.

• An interest in working with diverse student populations, who represent a wide range of age, ethnicity, national origin, and ability.

• A commitment to serve the Kent County community.

• Demonstrated responsiveness, initiative, and organizational and problem-solving abilities.

• Ability to perform routine and unexpected duties.

• A willingness and an ability to learn college systems.

• High energy level with enthusiasm and an interest in helping and supporting students and colleagues.

• Must use good judgment in handling sensitive or difficult situations in a professional manner.

Working Conditions

• GRCC will comply with any mandated health and safety requirements. Compliance information is available on our policies website.

Benefits

• Wellness Program: Access resources for physical and mental wellbeing, and an onsite gym membership.

• Continuous Learning: Career development and educational opportunities.

• Retirement Plans: Secure your future with our retirement options, including the state retirement plan.

Application / Hiring Process

• Please fill out an application at Submit a cover letter, resume & unofficial transcripts. The opportunity to apply for this position will close at the end of the day on the close date referenced at the top of this job posting.

• Individuals with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Grand Rapids Community College is an equal opportunity employer. Visa sponsorship is not available.

• Only adjunct faculty living in the state of Michigan can teach classes for GRCC.

Nondiscrimination Statement

Grand Rapids Community College creates an inclusive learning and working environment that recognizes the value and dignity of each person. It is the policy and practice of GRCC to provide equal educational and employment opportunities regardless of age, race, color, religion, marital status, sex/gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, height, weight, national origin, disability, political affiliation, familial status, veteran status or genetics in all programs, activities, services, employment and advancement including admissions to, access to, treatment in, or compensation in employment as required by state and federal law. GRCC is committed to reviewing all aspects of GRCC programs, activities, services and employment, including recruitment, selection, retention and promotion to identify and eliminate barriers in order to prevent discrimination on the basis of the listed protected characteristics. The college will not tolerate any form of retaliation against any person for bringing charges of discrimination or participating in an investigation. Further information may be obtained from the EEO Office or the Office of General Counsel, 143 Bostwick Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-3295.