Job title: Lecturer in Music Performance
Department: School of Arts
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract (12 Months)
Grade: 8
Location: Bloomsbury
Hours: 21 hours per week (0.6 FTE)
SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East. SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leading role in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity. SOAS is moving towards a new model of international partnerships which is responsive to the transnational character of our global challenges.
About the Role
Specialism can be in any music from SOAS regions (Middle East, Africa, Asia, and diasporas), with preference for experience in composition, ethnomusicology, or practice research.
The role oversees undergraduate and postgraduate performance programmes, encouraging students to engage with regional musical traditions through practice, explore new performance methods, and develop cross-cultural creativity.
Responsibilities include coordinating with tutors delivering group and individual instruction, teaching theoretical aspects of performance, assessing exams, and organising student concerts.
This is mainly a teaching role with no research output requirement, though engagement in performance and practice research is expected, including leading the public “Conversation in Creative Practice” series.
About the Department
The SOAS Music Department, based in the School of Arts, focuses on global musical systems and cultures across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and their diasporas. Students learn from expert musicians, studying instruments like kora, tabla, gamelan, and santur, and perform in ensembles. Research strengths include ethnomusicology, diaspora studies, heritage and sustainability, and global music history, with collaboration across art history, cultural industries, and digital media.
About you
You will hold a PhD in Music or a related field, with a strong profile as a performer and educator, contributing to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching. They will develop inclusive, cross-cultural, performance-based teaching and support diverse musical traditions.
Applicants should have a proven track record in professional performance and innovative, practice-led teaching, helping shape and coordinate performance modules within Music programmes.
The role requires a dynamic, collaborative individual with experience in ensemble and solo teaching, working with tutors, and organising concerts, workshops, and performance assessments to support the department’s performance culture.
In addition to teaching performance modules, the role holder will teach the critical and contextual dimensions of performance studies through lectures and seminars, advise undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations, and provide pastoral care for students. The role holder will also be expected to work collaboratively with academic and professional services colleagues across the Department and the School to support the delivery and development of Music programmes.
It would be desirable for the role holder to be a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, but if not, SOAS will support them in applying for HEA recognition.
What We Offer:
We are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to enhance your well-being and work-life balance:
1. Generous Holiday Entitlement: Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 5 closure days over Christmas and Easter) to ensure ample time for rest and relaxation.
2. Flexible Working Arrangements: We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
3. Generous occupational pension scheme: To provide financial security for your future
4. Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
5. Health and Well-being Initiatives: Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
6. Enhanced Family Leave: We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
7. Employee Assistance Programme: Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
8. Discounted Gym Membership: Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.