Lecturer Position in PreCollege Music Theory, Composition, and Jazz/Pop Improvisation (m/f/d), 10-20%

With approximately 2,100 bachelor’s and master’s students and 100 doctoral candidates, ZHdK is one of the largest and most diverse art universities in Europe. Its academic and research fields include art education, design, film, fine arts, music, dance, theater, and transdisciplinarity. Located in the heart of Zurich, ZHdK is a dynamic place where passionate people from over 75 countries work, study, teach, conduct research, and pursue continuing education.

The ZHdK PreCollege is part of the Department of Music and offers nine different tracks in preparatory education to help students prepare for studies at a music college.

At the start of the fall semester, effective August 1, 2027, there is a

Lecturer Position in PreCollege Music Theory, Composition, and Jazz/Pop Improvisation (m/f/d), 10-20%

to fill a position in the Music PreCollege program of the Department of Music.

We are seeking an artistically active individual who can teach jazz/pop music theory in a nuanced, contemporary, and engaging manner. You must hold a master’s degree in theory, composition, and/or performance with a specialization in composition, and have a proven track record of artistic activity in the field of jazz/pop. You have teaching experience at the pre-college level (PreCollege or preparatory studies) or are willing to obtain qualifications in college-level teaching methodology. You are actively involved in the faculty and contribute to the further development of the PreCollege Music program. Excellent German language skills are required.

At the PreCollege level, the course load includes jazz/pop harmony, jazz/pop ear training, arrangement, jazz improvisation, and free improvisation. Depending on demand, you will teach additional subject-specific modules. Classes are held exclusively on weekends. Participation in various committees is expected. This is a permanent position.

We offer an artistic, creative, and innovative environment for this challenging role in music education. A highly qualified faculty and a well-coordinated leadership team will support you in your duties. We foster an inclusive culture and value diversity.

The trial lessons and the technical interview will take place on December 10, 2026, in Zurich.

For more information, please contact Xavier Pfarrer, Director of PreCollege Music (xavier.pfarrer@zhdk.ch).

Human Resources Management Contact: Romano Somazzi (romano.somazzi@zhdk.ch)

We welcome your complete application materials by November 19, 2026. Please note that for this position, we only accept applications submitted via the link (no email applications).

https://apply.refline.ch/788531/1268/pub/1/index.html