Employment & Auditions

Position Summary:

The Western Piedmont Symphony Youth Orchestras (WPSYO) are composed of two ensembles: the Debut Strings and the Youth Symphony. The Youth Symphony Conductor provides the educational, artistic, and administrative leadership of the Youth Symphony by developing and carrying out a program of work under the supervision of the WPS Music Director and the WPS Executive Director. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

Artistic Selection and Performance

• Schedule, program, prepare, and lead weekly rehearsals during the September - May symphony season (on Monday evenings from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.) for a minimum of two concerts (Fall and Spring) each year.
• Determine repertoire to be studied and performed, in consultation with WPS Music Director and within budgetary guidelines.
• Follow and implement initiatives as specified in the WPS Strategic Plan, including building the profile and quality of the ensemble.
• Develop and maintain a relationship with regional school music and private music teachers to cultivate membership and to keep them informed of WPSYO activities.
• Actively recruit and audition Youth Symphony and Debut Strings members from schools in the region in coordination with the Debut Strings Conductor based upon mutually agreed upon criteria.
• Organize and inventory the WPSYO music library, as well as distribute and annotate (including bowings) all music. 

Administrative/Educational Activities

• Assure accurate attendance records for rehearsals, and coordinate collection of Youth Symphony paperwork and tuition with the WPS Operations and Education Manager.
• Develop a budget in cooperation with the WPS Executive Director to support the programs of the Youth Symphony, including library acquisitions and rentals, sectional coaches, and auxiliary players when needed.
• Establish audition and rehearsal schedules, and coordinate all calendar dates and venues with the WPS Operations and Education Manager.
• Provide appropriate information for public relations and concert programs to the WPS Marketing Coordinator in a timely manner.
• Coordinate set-up and teardown of orchestra chairs, stands, and equipment with the WPS Operations and Education Manager.
• Attend WPS Education Committee meetings, as needed.
• Attend WPS Board of Directors meetings, as requested.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Music Performance or Education; string emphasis preferred 
• Effective computer and social media skills
• Superior communication, management, and interpersonal skills 
• Highly self-motivated and goal-oriented with a keen attention to detail
• Possess strong personal integrity
• Must have a positive attitude, be able to work as part of a high-functioning team, and possess a passion for symphonic music

Compensation:

• Approx. $7,500; no benefits offered

Other:

• Other duties as assigned by the Music Director and/or Executive Director

To Apply: 

• Please submit a cover letter, résumé, and three professional references to [email protected]
• Candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted. No phone calls please. 
• Application deadline: August 12, 2022