Applications for each academic year are accepted through mid-March (e.g. applications for the 2021-22 academic will be accepted through mid-March 2021).

Associate Instructors (AIs) in Music Theory at the Jacobs School of Music teach courses in the core undergraduate program. This program includes theory and literature courses (covering harmony, formal analysis, elements of music such as melody and counterpoint, musical style, and music literature, especially works from 1700 to the present) and musical skills courses (covering sight singing and rhythm reading, dictation, and some keyboard harmony).

All music theory AIs work with theory faculty members or theory coordinators (see below), who are in charge of the core courses. AIs usually teach two groups of students (approximately 15 per group) two or three times a week, attend the general lectures of the course, and participate in weekly staff meetings for their course. AIs also assist in proctoring and grading entrance exams during the week before classes begin. A general training session is provided for all AIs before each semester.

Appointments are for 42.5% FTE (17 hours per week, including time for preparation and grading or individual skills hearings). Remuneration includes graduate tuition (does not include mandatory fees) for 21 credit hours during the year, a monthly stipend for 10 months, and health insurance. Graduate students with any major in the School of Music may audition for an AI position.

Applying for a Music Theory AI

• Information for prospective music theory majors
• Information for other applicants and current IU students

Coordinator Appointments

A small number of Associate Instructor positions in the music theory department are considered “coordinator” appointments. These appointments carry an increased stipend and additional hours of fee remission in comparison with other AI appointments. Most coordinators work in the aural-skills sequence, teaching lectures and supervising the work of other AIs who teach students in smaller groups. Honors classes in Music Theory and Literature at the sophomore level are also taught by coordinator-level AIs.

Experienced AIs who have demonstrated excellence in all aspects of their work (aural skills, keyboard skills, academic expertise, teaching skills, organizational skills, professionalism, responsibility, etc.) may be considered for coordinator positions. Additional information about coordinator appointments is available from the department chair.