Associate Professor of Music Theory – Sumanth Gopinath, Ph.D.

The Art of Teaching Music Theory: A Professor's Perspective – JobGuppy

Sumanth Gopinath, PhD – Associate Professor in Music Theory

Summary:
If you want to major in Music Theory or better yet, wonder what music professions are out there, this episode is for you.

Join Chris as he speaks with Associate Professor Dr. Sumanth Gopinath who breaks down what Music Theorists actually do. They also delve into the wide range of career possibilities that fall under the music theory umbrella. From music therapy to a professor in academia, the career pool is overflowing with options. Tune in as Dr. Gopinath provides insights into his own academic journey, what the career ladder looks like as a Music Theory Professor, and find out his top music program recommendations.

Dr. Gopinath’s Bio:
– Music Theory Professor at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, in the School of Music
– Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin
– Masters and PhD in Music from Yale University
– Bio page at the University of Minnesota website

The Gated Community Band

Career advice: Remember what you’re passionate about and follow your instincts. Pay attention to your teachers. Build a network of people (inside & outside your field) who can do this with you. Don’t do this alone.

Career Ladder:

  • Teacher’s Assistant – usually graduate students
  • Adjuncts – paid per course & have to seek out courses
  • Lecturers – typically have renewable contracts & more stability
  • Tenure Professors
    1. Assistant Professor – on the tenure track but not tenured yet
    2. Associate Professor – has tenure
    3. Full Professor – went through yet another professional advancement process

Specific college programs referenced in the conversation:

Ivy League/Private Schools

State Schools

Supplemental Roles:

  • Specific Committee Chair Positions
  • Director of Undergraduate Studies
  • Director of Graduate Studies
  • Chair or Director
  • Dean – more general administrative role (some teach, some don’t)
  • Post-Doctoral Positions – small-to-none teaching load
  • Staff Researches
  • Unpaid Positions – where grants are used to supplement income

Job Search terms and resources:

Income & Salary:

  • Based on where you live & your field will affect your salary
  • Tenure Associate Professors in the areas of Humanities may earn around $90,000/yr plus additional for other side roles like speaking engagements. The range of salaries can vary greatly based on the area of study. For example, Tenure Economists can make upwards of $500,000/year.
  • Adjuncts – $20,000-$30,000/per year