Position Title
Part-Time Academic (MUSC 2178.15/2179.15 Lyric Diction 2a and 2b) - Fall/Winter 2026-27
Department/Unit
Fountain School of Performing Arts
Location
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Job Summary & Key Responsibilities
This Part-Time Academic will be fully responsible for the teaching and grading of the classes MUSC 2178.15 Lyric Diction 2a and MUSC 2179.15 Lyric Diction 2b, from September 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027 (Fall Term 2026 and Winter Term 2027).
In this class, students will learn the symbols and sounds of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) that can be used as the foundation to lyric diction for all languages; however, this course will focus on the specific sounds, rules, and diction nuances of German, Norwegian, and other languages. After learning the basic diction skills for each of the aforementioned languages, students will then apply this foundation to their classical vocal repertoire to improve diction, clarity, and communication skills.
The instructor will be responsible for all aspects of teaching and administering the course, including preparing and delivering lectures, marking student assignments, developing course content on Brightspace, and submitting grades. In addition to course time, the instructor is required to hold office hours for student consultations.
The instructor is expected to announce the end-of-term student ratings/evaluations of instruction. This position reports to the Director of the Fountain School of Performing Arts.
Qualifications/Requirements of Position
A minimum of a MMus in either Vocal Performance/Pedagogy or Collaborative Piano, with proven knowledge of teaching International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as it applies to lyrical singing; including, but not limited to, English, Latin, Italian and Spanish. Also, a familiarity with standard classical vocal repertoire, a functioning knowledge of spoken Italian, and Spanish, and experience teaching lyric diction at the university level is preferred.
All offers of employment as a Part-Time Academic are conditional upon sufficient student enrolment in the course and approval by the University.
Salary Range/Pay Rate
Per CUPE Collective Agreement
Additional Information
All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.
Dalhousie University commits to achieving inclusive excellence through continually championing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. The university encourages applications from Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (especially Mi’kmaq), persons of Black/African descent (especially African Nova Scotians), and members of other racialized groups, persons with disabilities, women, persons identifying as members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and all candidates who would contribute to the diversity of our community. In accordance with our Employment Equity Policy, preference will be given in hiring processes to candidates who self-identify as members of one or more of the equity-deserving groups listed above. For more information, including details related to our Employment Equity Policy and Plan and definitions of equity-deserving groups please visit www.dal.ca/hiringfordiversity.
If you require any support for the purpose of accommodation, such as technical aids or alternative arrangements, please let us know of these needs and how we can be of assistance. Dalhousie University is committed to ensuring all candidates have full, fair, and equitable participation in the hiring process. Our complete Accommodation Policy can be viewed here.
