Position Title: Co-Conductor/Strings Specialist for AYSP Junior Symphony
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO: Music Director
Location: AYSP Facility/Various Venues
About:
The AYSP Junior Symphony (JS) provides exposure to full orchestra training for 60-80 dedicated middle-school string, woodwind, brass and percussion players from across the Albuquerque area. The Junior Symphony performs exciting and challenging symphonic literature, while focusing on advancing student’s technical skills and musicality.
Position Function Summary:
The Junior Symphony Co-Conductor/Strings Specialist is a part-time, seasonal position (August-May) and reports to the AYSP Music Director. The position is responsible for joint direction and instruction of AYSP’s Junior Symphony, alongside the JS Winds Specialist. The JS Co-Conductor maintains high performance quality of the ensemble through thoughtful artistic direction and education, modeling for students the attitude and presence of an exemplary musician. The Co-Conductor collaborates in developing artistic vision for AYSP and serves as a representative of the Program in the community.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Co-Teaches all weekly rehearsals (Saturdays, 8:30am-11:30am), dress rehearsals, concerts, tours and outreach for JS
- Along with the JS Co-Conductor/Winds Specialist, selects music to be performed and prepares JS for scheduled concerts
- Coordinates the borrowing and/or purchase of music for each concert; is responsible for preparing music, assigning parts, copying of parts, and folder preparation prior to the rehearsal of each new concert program as requested
- Jointly prepares and sends weekly Rehearsal Notes to students
- Instructs and oversees Parent Manager volunteers during rehearsals
- Manages student attendance with the aid of Parent Managers
- Upholds and enforces student behavior policies as outlined in the AYSP Musician’s Handbook during all JS related activities
- Directs sectional instructors during sectionals; leads sectionals as needed
- Actively participates in annual recruiting efforts for the Program
- Serves as adjudicator for middle school string auditions as requested each May
- Attends Artistic Staff meetings as scheduled
- Works as a part of the AYSP conductor team to build and maintain relationships in the community with other music educators and arts organizations
Necessary Skills:
- Knowledge of a wide variety of orchestra repertoire
- Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, audience, and critical community partners
- Public speaking skills, able to energize an audience and motivate students
- Ability to respond to shifting priorities in a dynamic and changing work environment
- Flexibility to work nights and weekends
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in music education with proficient teaching and conducting experience; Master’s degree in music preferred
Begin:
January 2024
Deadline:
Monday, October 16, 2023
Submit:
Send the following materials to AYSP by email: jobs@aysmusic.org
- Cover letter
- Resume
- Three references with contact information
- Video footage of teaching a music ensemble, if available; 5-10 minutes in length