Music Director
Position Description
Organization Background:
The Evergreen Children’s Chorale (ECC) is a 501(c)(3) community arts organization that was formed more than 31 years ago, in response to a need in the mountain area for a high-quality music performance ensemble specifically designed for children. ECC provides musical performance opportunities for youth in 2nd through 8th grade to fulfill our Mission and in accordance with our Guiding Principles.
Mission:
Inspiring and engaging young performers through quality experiences that create community and nurture a love of the arts.
Guiding Principles:
- Pursue excellence in the performing arts
- Provide a fun, joyful and professional atmosphere
- Foster collaboration, teamwork and trust
- Connect to the heart of our community
- Cultivate empathy in a nurturing environment
- Respect individuality, diversity and inclusion
- Lead by example and with integrity
ECC has two ensembles: Prelude (2nd-4th grade) and Company (5th-8th grade). The Music Director of each respective ensemble of ECC is responsible for the selection of programming and the preparation of the members of the ensemble in order to fulfill ECC’s mission and in accordance with our guiding principles.
The key responsibilities of this position are:
Design, Coordination and Direction of Music Programming
- Direct rehearsals and performances (fall/winter concert, spring musical and outside performances, as determined by Music Director, Business Manager and Board).
- With Business Manager and Production Manager, ensure that current season music is selected, purchased and made available by the start of each new season.
- Participate in at least two to four off-site performances each season.
- Lead the audition process and make final selection decisions in collaboration with other artistic contractors.
- Strive to maintain a high-quality choral experience for all members including the importance of good singing posture, proper breathing, pronunciation, quality singing with accurate pitch, movement, and stage presence. Work with members to foster clear and distinct speaking and to demonstrate confidence with voice, body language and eye contact.
- Implement and uphold a code of respect, discipline and positive working atmosphere with all members, parents and other staff/contractors, in accordance with ECC’s mission and guiding principles.
Artistic Leadership
- In collaboration with Music Director of the other ensemble, and other staff/Board Members as determined, maintain a two-year plan for concert themes and spring musicals.
- Lead ensemble team meetings (including ensemble artistic staff, production manager, Business Manager, Marketing Manager & Board Member(s)) to ensure all aspect of each production are implemented in a timely manner.
- Provide written reports to the Artistic Director for their presentation at the Board of Directors meetings.
- Work with the Business Manager and other identified staff/Board Members to select additional artistic contractors and make requests for purchases within the scope of the board-approved annual budget.
- Manage ensemble artistic contractors
Administrative
- Communicate with ensemble members on a consistent basis to provide clear information regarding all matters related to the ensemble.
- Manage member attendance, including absences, elevating significant concerns to the Business Manager and/or Board of Directors, if necessary or appropriate.
- Support and participate in marketing and recruitment efforts of ECC and the other ensemble
- Provide narratives for grant applications, as requested.
- Ensure facilities are locked and secure at the end of all rehearsals.
- Report to the Board and Business Manager.
Required Experience, Knowledge and Skills
- Degree in music, music education with an emphasis in choral conducting OR equivalent choral conducting experience
- Experience working with children in a musical environment, ideally including both choral and musical theatre performance.
- Experience developing and caring for younger voices.
- Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively, as both a leader and team member, with the adults of ECC, including artistic and administrative staff, Board Members, parents and other volunteers.
- Interest in and commitment to the mission and guiding principles of ECC.
Compensation
This is a salaried position and compensation is annually determined by the Board of Directors. Salary starts at $2,800 per season, based on experience. Additional compensation will be provided for outside performances. Hours vary depending on the time of year.
Non-Discrimination
The Evergreen Children’s Chorale does not discriminate against any person or organization based on age, race, sex, color, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender identity, gender expression, ancestry, marital status, gender, veteran status, military status, political service, affiliation or disability.
Please send a cover letter and resume to admin@evergreenchildrenschorale.com
