Philharmonic Orchestra Conductor

Organization:
Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras
Location:
Fairfield, Connecticut
Salary:
$10,000-$12,500
Category:
Posted On:
April 23, 2024

Description

Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras seeks an energetic and talented educator/conductor to lead its Philharmonic Orchestra. Candidates must be passionate about engaging students ranging in age from 7th-10th grade in the joy of learning repertoire from a variety of genres and composers. Applicants from backgrounds historically under-represented in classical music are strongly encouraged to apply. The Philharmonic Orchestra conductor works closely with the Music Director to develop: – Programs that will challenge our students to grow musically and allow them to achieve their goals – Extra performance opportunities – Commissions and community collaborations Responsibilities: – Conduct weekly Saturday morning rehearsals (occasionally Sundays) from September through the middle of May – Communicate with coaches and establish effective rehearsal plans – Assist with auditions in June and the end of August – Attend staff meetings – Attend BOD meetings – Communicate with parents – Communicate with the Music Director – Communicate with the Executive Director – Bi-weekly meetings with the Music Director – Conduct 3 or more concerts per year Candidates with the right combination of experience and skills may also be considered for the position of Assistant Music Director. The Assistant Music Director works closely with the Music Director and will be responsible for the following areas: – Collaborate with students as advisor of Student Leadership Committee. Host monthly meetings with students after rehearsals or on Zoom. Hear concerns, plan activities, complete projects. – Serve as the representative of student voice to the Board of Directors – Assist with recruiting and community engagement – Assist with the planning and implementation of Teaching Artist Retreats (Summer) – Be ready and willing to step in and conduct Principal Orchestra if the Music Director is absent from rehearsals or performances – Assistant Music Director stipend: $2,500

Requirements

Qualifications:
– Orchestral conducting experience and knowledge of orchestral repertoire
– A history of programming for this age group and excellence in youth musical development
– A bachelor’s degree in Music or Music Education is required. Preference given to those with an advanced degree in Orchestral Conducting
– Ability to establish the highest standards of music performance, while being supportive, understanding, and approachable
– A demonstrated appreciation for and understanding of the needs of high-performing students
– Demonstrated track record of establishing and maintaining an open, inclusive, and safe rehearsal environment for students

How to Apply

Hiring Process:
– Cover Letter addressing interest, experience with, and desire to work with youth orchestras
– Curriculum Vitae
– A minimum of three professional references with contact information
– Recent conducting videos (within 2 years) – 3-5 video links (ex. Youtube, Dropbox) totaling a maximum of 90 minutes consisting of both rehearsal and performance
– Interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis. Three finalists will be selected to conduct one music cycle, ending with one concert, during the ’24-’25 season. An announcement of the final decision will be made at the end of May 2025 with a start date of July 1st, 2025. A stipend will be paid to each finalist.
– Salary range for position, commensurate with experience and skills, beginning 2025-26 season: $10,000-$12,500, payable over 10 months

Please send all materials to:
Chris Hisey
Musicdirector@gctyo.org

Deadline for application: 6/1/24