Careers

We are Looking for our next

Artistic Director / Conductor

“Singing as a Community, For the Community.”
Job Description

Interested applicants may either apply at the job listing on the ACDA website or email their CV/resume and cover letter to info@mccsings.org

Purpose of Position: To develop and carry out artistic programming, collaborations and concerts that enhances the mission of the organization. To embrace the concept of a community chorus whose intent is to unite people through the power of music to create a singing community.

Time Commitment: .5 Full Time Employee (~20 hours/week) salaried position. Flexible hours, but some evenings and occasional weekends required. Hours will vary from week to week depending on where the chorus is in the concert production cycle; the .5 Full Time Employee represents a general level of expectation regarding activity.

Chorus Mission and Vision: The Midcoast Community Chorus aims to sing as a community, for the community and we believe that when we sing, we change who we are. When we change who we are, we change the world. 

Responsibilities:

1. Promote the Chorus’ focus on its mission - Work with the Chorus, the Board of Trustees, and volunteers to promote a positive atmosphere of community within the organization. Network with other arts organizations, music directors, and community groups to increase the visibility of the Chorus and to encourage collaboration.

2. Oversee the artistic standards of materials, performance repertoire and concert themes for two concerts annually. Organize an annual performance schedule for concerts. Organize a rehearsal schedule at the beginning of each concert semester. Conduct voice checks and auditions (as appropriate) twice annually. Design each concert performance, including theme development and integration of guest artists, ensembles, soloists and visual elements. Contract with technicians and musicians for each concert project. Collaborate with the Operations Manager, committees, and the Board to ensure that technical needs, venue contracts, and staging details run smoothly. Audition, select and coach soloists and small group ensembles. Offer music education sessions appropriate for the community chorus environment.

3. Manage administrative and artistic details for outreach projects. Manage communication, logistics and planning details for Midcoast community performances, in cooperation with the Operations Manager and other chorus leadership.

4. Provide supervision for music-related staff and volunteers. Oversee the Accompanist. Identify, coach, and supervise the activities of Chorus section leaders and the Assistant Director. Communicate regularly with section leaders regarding vocal issues, repertoire to cover in upcoming sectionals and other musical needs.

5. Facilitate the work of the Music Librarians. Identify concert themes and collaborations that support the chorus mission. Research appropriate music for the upcoming season. Ensure that current season music is selected and purchased with the assistance of the Music Librarians. Communicate with the Accompanist regarding the rehearsal list, tempos and other performance details for recording rehearsal tapes. Secure new arrangements and performance rights where appropriate.

6. Development and Finances - Contribute input for the annual budget in collaboration with the Board Treasurer. Write narrative as needed for concert projects, and work with development staff to position grant focus.

7. Communicate regularly with the Chorus Board and other chorus leadership. Provide an overview of each semester’s themes and musical selections. Attend Board meetings and provide a monthly report to the Board.


8. Participate in professional development - Participate in professional organizations: American Choral Directors’ Association, GALA, Chorus America, etc. Maintain and update professional competence by attending workshops, classes and conferences. Review new choral works and recordings; read professional journals. Attend concerts of other choral organizations.

Requirements

Required Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • BA or Advanced Degree in Music with an emphasis in choral conducting or equivalent conducting experience (minimum 5-6 years).

  • Experience conducting or working with a community-based chorus and with singers of various musical skills and experience.

  • Experience in musical education.

  • Interest in and commitment to embracing the mission of the Chorus.

  • Strong interpersonal skills, a good sense of humor, and the ability to embrace the larger picture.

  • Ability to offer strong leadership skills as well as to balance work within a team setting.

  • Flexibility in working with a diverse group of volunteers and personalities.

  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

  • An ability to work within electronic mediums: word processing, e-mail, and internet.

  • Salary is commensurate with experience.