Orchestra and Chorus Conductor

The Colleges of the Fenway (COF) is seeking an Orchestra and Chorus Conductor responsible for leading two of the shared performance ensembles for students, faculty, and staff at the five member institutions: Emmanuel College, MCPHS University, Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Simmons University and Wentworth Institute of Technology. Currently engaging over 120 participants annually, the ensembles produce performances each semester. In this capacity, the Conductor will work with the Director, Center for Performing Arts to continue to develop the vision for the ensembles and work with various campus constituencies to deliver a high-level performing arts program with a primary focus on students.

Colleges of the Fenway is a collaborative effort of five neighboring Boston-based colleges in the Longwood Medical and Academic area. This collaboration was created to add value to student academic and social life while seeking innovative methods of investing in new services and containing the costs of higher education.

COF is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We respect and seek to empower each individual and support the diverse cultures, perspectives, skills and experiences within our staff and member institutions. Candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to apply.

For each ensemble:

1. Rehearsals: Conduct one 2-2.5-hour rehearsal per week per ensemble for 8-10 weeks per semester, at a mutually agreed time, with additional rehearsals as needed and agreed upon.
   
2. Auditions/Recruitment: Working with the Director, Center for Performing Arts, organize and hold auditions as needed at the beginning of each semester.

3. Concert Production: Working closely with the Director, Center for Performing Arts, oversee the production of at least one in-person concert (or virtual should circumstances deem necessary) per semester. Responsibilities include:

• Research and select scores and parts. Order music as needed.

• Plan concert order.

• Maintain music library.

• Organize and conduct rehearsals.

• Communicate schedule to students in a timely manner.

• Hire and supervise outside professionals (guest artists, tech workers, truck rental for moving instruments) as appropriate.

• With the template provided by the Director, Center for Performing Arts, produce a digital program for each concert.

4. Special Events: Work with smaller groups of students to develop chamber ensembles, etc. for social events and internal and external opportunities. Working closely with the Director, Center for Performing Arts, manage requests, select music, and rehearse groups. Chorus may include Fenway Night at the Red Sox. Not to exceed 2 events per semester per ensemble.

5. Administration: Working closely with the Director of the COF Center for Performing Arts:

• Supervise student interns/staff and student leaders when appropriate.

• Be involved in strategic planning for the orchestra and chorus.

• Oversee the set-up and breakdown of the physical space for rehearsals and performances.

• Oversee instrument inventory and transportation of instruments as needed.

• Work within Orchestra and Chorus budgets and submit receipts, following COF accounting procedures.

• Keep accurate, weekly attendance via ensemble registration software.

• Respond to e-mails from COF staff and students in a timely manner.

• Advise and mentor student e-board.

6. Marketing and Communication:

• Working with the Director to contribute content to external communications for the orchestra and Chorus, such as language for the website and flyers.

• Assist in marketing and retention in conjunction with the Director which may involve recruitment activities such as student fairs and contributing content to social media.

• Respond to new and prospective student and parent inquiries and arrange to meet with them as appropriate.
  

Position Preferences:

• At least 4 years of experience conducting or directing chorus and/or orchestra, preferably at a collegiate level.

• Demonstrated experience working with young adult musicians of varying skill levels in an educational or community setting.

• Strong conducting and rehearsal technique, with the ability to prepare students for performances.

• Flexible, creative, and innovative in approach to curriculum, programming, and concert design.

• Ability to create a welcoming, inclusive environment that supports musical and social-emotional growth.

• Excellent organizational and communication skills, with attention to detail, strong sense of empathy and a proactive nature.

• Dedication and commitment to engage in and promote equity and inclusion within the musical selections.

• Ability to arrange music and simplify orchestral/choral parts is preferred.

 

A criminal background investigation is required for the hired candidate and results may impact employment. Relocation assistance not available. Principals only please.