Description

The Handel and Haydn Society (H+H) invites individuals who are passionate about creating transformative experiences through music and supporting the development of young people to apply for the position of H+H Youth Choruses Conductor: Youth Chorale + Concert Choir. As a member of the HHYC Artistic Team, the conductor envisions and implements artistic programming for two choirs of treble singers in grades 6-9 within the context of the seven-choir H+H Youth Choruses. The conductor is part of a 24-member education team, which includes conductors, musicianship teachers, collaborative pianists, school-based teaching artists, and administrative staff. This is a part-time, salaried position, with responsibilities throughout the calendar year and regular leadership of weekly ensemble rehearsals on Saturdays, September – May. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, but for maximum consideration, materials should be submitted by March 1, 2023. This position commences with the 2023-2024 season. Reports to: Associate Director of Education Supervises: Assistant Conductor Responsibilities: • Facilitate individual and ensemble growth through exceptional application of vocal pedagogy and musicianship in choral rehearsals and performances. Select and prepare repertoire for 5-8 performances annually. • Work with the HHYC artistic team to envision and create engaging and innovative experiences for singers, including concerts, commissions, workshops, collaborations, and engagements with guest artists. • Prepare and conduct HHYC singers in collaborations with the professional H+H Orchestra and Chorus, including on the H+H subscription series. • Maintain rehearsal and performance standards aligned with the organization’s core values of education, musical excellence, personal expression, equity, and community. • Foster ensemble cultures that are warm, inclusive, and successful for all singers. • Supervise an Assistant Conductor. • Conduct voice placements and auditions for new singers. • Regularly communicate with singers and families and provide feedback on singer progress, attendance, and other pertinent matters related to singer engagement with HHYC. • Participate in all conductor and faculty meetings as scheduled and short- and long-term organizational planning. • Be available to meet with key constituents including singers, families, Board members, donors, colleagues, and alumni and participate in events that maintain and cultivate interest in H+H. • Represent H+H by attending conferences, festivals, and other engagements. • Other duties as assigned. Preferred Qualifications and Skills: • Collegiate study in music education, along with at least five years of experience working with middle and high school aged students in a choral setting. • Expertise in vocal pedagogy, diverse musical styles including Baroque and Classical repertoire, and performance practice. • Knowledge and understanding of varied teaching methodologies and the ability to differentiate instruction. • Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to relate to and engage young people with genuine warmth, creativity, and energy. • Sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse socioeconomic, cultural, and academic backgrounds of singers and their families. Advocacy for justice and equity in all settings. • Entrepreneurial drive, pro-active approach, flexibility, reliability and positive attitude. • Exceptional communication skills and attention to detail. • Bilingual written and verbal proficiency. • Authentic interest in advocacy for music education and the Handel and Haydn Society H+H respects every individual's unique journey through life and welcomes personal statements which can deepen our understanding of any candidate's qualifying experiences. We appreciate all interest in this opportunity and look forward to responding to candidates whose experience most closely aligns with this position description. After the initial round of interviews, candidates will be asked to submit sample materials including recent video footage demonstrating their teaching and/or conducting abilities. This video footage should total no more than 20 minutes. Finalists will be asked to meet with singers and work with an ensemble for 20-30 minutes during a rehearsal on a Saturday this spring. Salary range: $20,000-$24,000