Lecturer of Piano Technology
The Pennsylvania State University
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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Lecturer of Piano Technology
The School of Music in the College of Arts and Architecture at the Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a Lecturer of Piano Technology. This is a one- year renewable non-tenure line position. The Penn State School of Music is home to BM, BA, BMA, BME, and MM degrees in Performance, Music Education, Composition, and Music Theory, as well as doctoral programs across multiple disciplines.
This position requires professional judgment, schedule flexibility, and a sophisticated understanding of musical requirements to support performances, student instruction, and artistic collaborations. A BA or BM plus additional, exceptional professional experience is required; MM, MA, or comparable master’s degree with experience preferred. Registered Piano Technician Guild certification is required.
Anticipated start date is August 15, 2025.
Summary
Teach courses and workshops about piano tuning, maintenance, technology, and repair. Provide expert technical and artistic care for the School of Music's diverse keyboard instrument collection. Additionally, the lecturer will advise the director of the School of Music with budget planning essential for piano maintenance and oversee management of the School of Music keyboard inventory.
Duties include:
Teach courses, workshops, and seminars in piano technology and instrument repair. Supervise independent study for students interested in the piano tuning and technology industry.
Maintain the School of Music's ca. $3M keyboard collection at exceptional performance standards, with priority given to concert instruments in performance venues.
Apply specialized expertise in tuning, voicing, regulation, repairs, and preventative maintenance to enhance each instrument's tonal quality and responsiveness.
Collaborate with faculty, visiting artists, and students to prepare instruments according to specific artistic requirements and interpretive needs.
Independently develop and manage a teaching and work schedule that aligns with the institution's performance calendar, instructional activities, and optimal maintenance windows.
Diagnose and address mechanical, tonal, and structural issues through skilled craftsmanship and technical expertise.
Monitor and manage environmental conditions to preserve instrument quality and longevity, coordinating with facilities as needed.
Direct the strategic placement and setup of instruments within performance and instructional space, working with students, staff, and faculty.
Maintain comprehensive documentation of instrument histories, service records, and long-term care planning.
Provide expert consultation on instrument acquisition and collection management, including valuation, replacement planning, and oversight of piano donations.
Manage specialized materials, parts inventory, and oversee significant restoration projects as needed.
Participate in recruitment activities, faculty meetings and committee assignments.
Professional Environment
This position offers substantial professional autonomy within a vibrant performance institution. The Lecturer of Piano Technology serves as a trusted expert and instructor who directly influences the quality of performances and instruction. The role requires attention to the rhythms of concert preparation, including evening and weekend work aligned with performance schedules. The position calls for precision craftsmanship, sophisticated problem-solving, and a thoughtful balance of technical expertise, communication with students and other faculty, and musical understanding.
Professional Qualifications
Registered Piano Technician Guild Certification
Bachelor's degree plus exceptional professional experience is required, Master's degree preferred
Professional experience (2-3 years minimum) supporting high-level concert programs or academic music environments
Strong interpersonal skills and sensitivity when working with a diverse community of musicians and learners
Please submit a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, and a list of at least three (3) current references with contact information. Applications received by JULY 15, 2025 will receive priority consideration, but the search will continue until the position is filled. Anticipated start date is August 15, 2025
Questions pertaining to this search can be directed to the search chair, Ann Marie Stanley, amstanley@psu.edu.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.