Resident Conductor
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Deadline: April 20, 2026
Salary: $52,000 CAD annually
For seven decades, the Calgary Philharmonic has been welcoming communities together through the power of orchestral music. A pillar of the Calgary arts scene and one of Canada’s most celebrated live music ensembles, the Calgary Phil presents more than 70 concerts a season across a wide range of programming — epic classics, thrilling collaborations, rockin’ pops, family fun, live movie scores, and much more. The Calgary Phil also engages thousands of children each season through innovative and accessible Education and Outreach initiatives. In addition to 66 full-time orchestra musicians, the Calgary Phil is one of two major symphony orchestras in Canada that has its own chorus – over 160 volunteer singers. In a typical season, the Calgary Phil welcomes over 100,000 visitors, connecting audiences to live music experiences and serving the city of Calgary by fostering creativity and belonging. The Calgary Phil Belongs to Everyone.
The Role
The Calgary Phil is seeking a resident conductor to join the organization for the 2026/2027 season, with
potential to extend the role through the 2027/2028 season. The resident conductor will rehearse and conduct the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra in selected Education, Community, Pops and Specials programs; serve as cover conductor for additional Orchestra rehearsals and concerts; and will be an ambassador for the organization in Calgary and beyond. The resident conductor may also have opportunities to work with the Calgary Philharmonic Chorus.
The resident conductor will work closely with the associate director, education + outreach to assist in planning Education and Community programs for presentations in the concert hall and wider community. The Resident Conductor will also help design and plan other educational and community-building initiatives.
The Calgary Phil is committed to creating a work environment conducive to supporting the career
development of an emerging conductor. The Orchestra is currently searching for its next music director.
Once appointed, the new music director will provide mentorship and guidance to the resident conductor. The resident conductor will also receive regular support and feedback through consultation, coaching, and mentoring from the principal guest conductor, select guest conductors, and Calgary Phil administration and musicians. The resident conductor will take part in additional planning and administrative meetings, media events, fundraising activities, speaking engagements, and other activities as they arise.
The successful candidate will demonstrate skill and potential on the podium and will join the Calgary Phil in creatively building community through live orchestral music. The resident conductor will support the strategic plan of the Calgary Phil through their role, as the Calgary Phil works towards its vision of ‘The Calgary Phil belongs to everyone’. Through developing trusted programming, building community connections, and contributing to the organization’s well-being, the resident conductor will play a key role on the artistic team.
The resident conductor reports to the director, artistic + education.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct Education, Community, Pops, and Specials concerts as scheduled
- Cover all Classics concerts and other concerts as scheduled
- Attend and take part in programming committee meetings
- Attend and take part in other organizational planning meetings as required
- Assist the principal guest conductor and guest conductors as required at rehearsals and concerts
Desired Qualifications
- Demonstrated podium experience
- Strong communication skills and a desire to connect with musicians and audiences
- Advanced knowledge of orchestral repertoire
- Familiarity with all aspects of concert preparation and presentation
- Willingness to tailor presentations for wide community appeal
- Sensitivity to the demands of a professional orchestra environment
- Ability to rehearse efficiently — put together a program quickly
Required Qualifications
- Applicants must be Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents
- Must reside in Calgary during the concert season (early September to mid-June).
- The resident conductor should also be available for consultation at mutually agreed times during the off-season
Application Materials
Letter of interest addressed to the Resident Conductor Search Committee.
Resume with details to include:
- Contact information.
- Relevant professional or management details and website.
- Training and educational background.
- Performance history, including current and upcoming professional activities or engagements.
- List of three professional references with contact information.
- A complete list of repertoire.
- Proof of Canadian citizenship or Permanent Resident status.
- Submit two contrasting videos, preferably as streaming links (downloadable files may also be accepted). If possible, please ensure to include at least one video filmed from a front-facing angle, showing you as the conductor.
- Please submit no more than 15 minutes of video material and/or indicate specific starting points for the resident conductor search committee’s review.
Timelines and Audition Details
Audition repertoire excerpts to be selected from the following list:
- Dvořák Symphony No. 9 first movement
- Beethoven Symphony No. 5 first movement
- Brahms Symphony No. 2 second movement
Other repertory selections will be shared with those applicants invited to audition and interview, to be determined and shared by May 4, 2026 with the exception of a ‘quick study’ selection, which will be shared several hours in advance of the audition.
Candidates selected for audition and interview will be notified by May 4, 2026 and will then be given the final repertoire list to prepare and details for the audition and interview process.
The selection process will include on-stage rehearsal time with the orchestra, an interview process, and a programming exercise to be prepared in advance.
Interviews will take place on May 28, 2026 and live auditions for finalists will take place in Calgary on May 27, 2026 at the Jack Singer Concert Hall and the Calgary Phil administration offices, located in Werklund Centre.
Additional Details
- The salary is $52,000 CAD annually
- As part of our full compensation package, a comprehensive benefits package that includes RRSP
- contributions, health coverage, employee assistance program, and other non-cash benefits.
- Office location: Werklund Centre, Floor 2, 205 8 Avenue SE. Calgary AB T2G 0K9
Application Process
Applications will be reviewed on a regular basis and suitable candidates may be contacted before the
deadline.
Please send cover letter, resume, and other audition materials to Andrea Davison, Director, Artistic + Education HR@calgaryphil.com with the subject line “Resident Conductor.”
A Police Information Check will be required from the successful candidate.
The Calgary Phil is committed to fostering an anti-racist, equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment and, as such, encourages qualified candidates from a diverse range of backgrounds.
If you require an accommodation for the recruitment/interview process, please let us know so that we can work with you to assist with your needs. We thank you for your interest in the Calgary Phil. Please note that only successful candidates will be contacted.
Stay Connected
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