Director of Marching Band

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

The Director of Marching Band is responsible for the creation, implementation, leadership, and administration of the university’s marching band program and related instrumental ensembles. This part-time position provides artistic, educational, operational, and strategic oversight while supporting the mission of Ave Maria University and enhancing campus spirit, student engagement, and institutional visibility.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Program Development

• Establish and implement the vision, structure, and operational framework for the university marching band program
• Develop strategic plans for program growth, recruitment, retention, and sustainability
• Create traditions, performance standards, and organizational culture for the program

Student Recruitment and Retention

• Recruit qualified student musicians through outreach to high schools, music educators, and prospective students
• Collaborate with admissions, athletics, and campus leadership on recruitment initiatives
• Develop retention strategies and student leadership opportunities

Instruction and Performance

• Conduct and direct marching band rehearsals and performances
• Direct additional ensembles including concert band, jazz band, pep band, and other instrumental groups as assigned
• Select music, coordinate drill design, and oversee show development
• Evaluate student performance and provide mentoring and instruction

Administrative Management

• Prepare and manage annual operating budgets
• Oversee purchasing, inventory, equipment, uniforms, instruments, and facilities
• Coordinate travel, scheduling, contracts, and event logistics
• Ensure compliance with university policies and safety procedures

Personnel Management

• Recruit, supervise, and evaluate assistant directors and student leaders as assigned

Institutional Engagement

• Represent the university at performances, outreach events, and community functions
• Collaborate with university departments to support institutional events and student engagement initiatives

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in Music, Music Education, Conducting, or related field. Master’s degree preferred. 

EXPERIENCE: Minimum of 3–5 years of progressively responsible experience directing marching bands, concert bands, jazz ensembles, or related instrumental music programs, preferably at the high school or collegiate level. Experience with performance planning, rehearsal design, and event coordination. 

CERTIFICATION: N/A

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Demonstrated success in marching band instruction and leadership. Strong organizational, communication, and administrative skills. Ability to work evenings and weekends, as needed. Experience in drill design, arranging, budgeting, and personnel supervision. Must support the University’s Catholic mission. 

PHYSICAL SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Requires ordinary ambulatory skills sufficient to visit other locations. Ability to stand for extended periods. Ability to conduct rehearsals and performances outdoors in varied weather conditions. Ability to lift and transport equipment up to 30 pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is performed both indoors and outdoors with exposure to outdoor elements typical to our location in SW Florida; heat, humidity, rain, etc.