Temporary Choral Conductor Wanted
We are looking for an interim artistic director July 2021 to December 2021!
The board of Vocal Latitudes community choir is searching for an interim artistic director to conduct the choir for the period August 2021 to December 2021. Frank Rackow, our founding artistic director, is taking a well-deserved sabbatical term after founding, developing, and conducting for the last 15 years.
At present, we expect Frank to return as artistic director in January 2022.
We are planning to fill the interim AD position before the end of June so that they can be involved in the repertoire selection process. A board committee is inviting prospective candidates to submit resumes by April 10, 2021.
We will invite selected candidates to demonstrate their skills over zoom in a 30 minute session. For example, the candidate might lead us in a warmup, conduct a song we know (polishing) or teach us a song we don’t know. The offer of a contract will be made prior to the end of June.
What are the Interim Artistic Director’s Responsibilities?
The artistic director (AD) is responsible for:
- Selecting appropriate repertoire for the choir and ensembles in consultation with the repertoire committee.
- Planning and executing each rehearsal, including preparing and teaching the material to the choir.
- Arranging for a substitute rehearsal leader in their absence.
- Screening new applicants for ability to match pitch and assigning to sections.
- Ensuring the accompanist is familiar with the material.
- Contacting other musicians as needed (percussionists, etc.) for performances.
- Exploring new repertoire possibilities and seeking development opportunities such as workshops as deemed necessary by the board of directors.
- Updating the board of directors regarding musical activities, progress of the choir, challenges or problems, expenses for music, etc.
- Attending and participating in board meetings as an ex-officio member.
- Planning concert order and presentation/staging with the artistic committee.
- Communicating with those responsible for the concert poster and program preparation.
- Searching for and evaluating external performance opportunities (shared responsibility with the board and membership).
What are the Requirements for this Position?
- Experience conducting a choir.
- Demonstrable an ability to teach to different levels of musical abilities.
Knowledge of a broad range of choral styles including popular, classical, folk music from multiple cultures, gospel, etc. - Cultural sensitivity to the musical traditions of non-western music.
What are the Assets of this Position?
- Play piano.
- Experience in vocal coaching.
- Experience in conducting choirs in a virtual format.
What is the Compensation?
The candidate will receive between $60 and $100 per rehearsal hour depending on experience.
