The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is entering a new era through Vision 2030, with arts and culture at the centre of its social and economic transformation. As part of this ambitious agenda, a new University has been announced as the first in the MENA region dedicated entirely to arts and culture: Riyadh University of Arts (RUA). This pioneering institution will offer an unparalleled range of programs spanning music, theatre, film, literature, heritage, architecture, design, visual arts, and culinary arts - from vocational training through to doctoral research.

We are now seeking to appoint a full-time faculty member in voice for 2026/27 for a Music Preparatory Year in the College of Music.

About the College of Music

The College of Music will offer BA programs in Music with pathways in Performance, Composition, and Production, Music Education and Music Industry with further diplomas, master’s and PhD degrees for students who wish to undertake further study across these areas. The College will develop workforce for the growing music and music education sectors across the Kingdom. Students will learn about a range of Saudi/Arabic and international music across programs and have the opportunity to embed in industry through placements as they complete their degrees.

About the Role

The role-holder will teach vocal performance across individual and group masterclass settings and will also direct vocal ensembles/choirs. The role-holder should have a proven track record in professional practice and teaching. The ideal role-holder will have professional and teaching experience across a range of vocal practices including Western and Arabic traditions.

The role-holder will also teach musicianship fundamentals and/or music appreciation classes to a diverse cohort of students working towards BAs in Music (with pathways in Performance, Composition or Production), Music Education, and Music Industry.

Mandatory Qualifications:

1. Master’s degree in music or equivalent professional experience
2. Fluency in English at a level necessary to deliver subject curriculum
3. Professional track record in vocal performance and/or vocal conducting evidenced by a performance portfolio
4. 2+ years of teaching experience at university level with assessed syllabi/rubrics

Preferred Qualifications

1. Fluency in Arabic
2. PhD or DMA in music or equivalent professional experience
3. Experience of coaching and leading diverse vocal ensembles
4. Experience of arranging music for diverse vocal ensembles and musicians of different ability levels

Living in Riyadh

Riyadh is the capital and largest city in Saudi Arabia and the GCC. Located in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, it is a key hub for finance, business, politics and culture. Initially a small desert town, Riyadh has now become a bustling metropolis with rapid modernization since the 1970s. Further information about Saudi Arabia can be found at Explore Saudi Arabia - Visit Saudi Official Website.

How to Apply

An executive search exercise is being undertaken by Perrett Laver to assist the selection committee.  

Please submit the following documents through our portal:

1. Cover letter outlining interest in the role and relevant experience
2. CV
3. A portfolio showcasing 15 minutes of their strongest work as a performer. Ideally, this portfolio should showcase performances across Western classical and Arabic styles. The portfolio should be submitted as a single PDF or Word document with titles, brief descriptions of performance context (e.g. venue, ensemble) and links to videos. Optionally, the candidate may also submit a link to a video of up to 10 minutes showcasing their work conducting a vocal ensemble.

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