Vacancy Announcement: Prince George's Philharmonic Music Director/Conductor

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The Prince George's Philharmonic, a community orchestra based in suburban Washington DC, seeks a Music Director/Principal conductor to start July 1, 2018. Finalists for the position will be invited to conduct a subscription concert during the orchestra’s 2017-2018 season. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional musicianship and conducting skills; significant conducting experience, including work with professional musicians; knowledge of a broad range of repertoire; and evidence of successful collaboration with all orchestral constituencies (Board of Directors, Executive Staff, Musicians, and Educators). The Music Director/Conductor is also expected to interact with the Prince George’s County Council and corporate donors, as well as make media appearances. The orchestra, which is currently celebrating its 50th season, is Prince George’s County’s oldest continuous performing arts organization. The group is comprised of more than 75 amateur and professional musicians and has a budget of approximately $140,000. The orchestra rehearses weekly on Wednesday evenings between Labor Day and Thanksgiving and from January through May. It typically performs five programs per season at several venues within the county. Its repertoire includes some of the most challenging pieces in the standard repertoire, as well as contemporary works, some of which the orchestra has premiered. The Orchestra has become an important force in music education in the county. It maintains a program where students are provided with instrumental music lessons, and presents master classes by some of its guest soloists. It also provides talented high school students the opportunity to perform with the orchestra, and it has formed partnerships with arts magnet high schools in performing works for chorus and orchestra. We seek a Music Director/Conductor who will build on this solid foundation and, in collaboration with the Executive Staff, Board, volunteers and musicians, will work to present music of the highest quality, heighten the Philharmonic’s visibility in the community, establish new partnerships, and develop new audiences. Salary: The starting salary will be between $22,000 and $25,000, based upon experience. Applications: Applications will be accepted immediately and must be received by February 1, 2016. Applicants should submit a resume, cover letter and three professional references that include contact information to Pgpmdsearch@gmail.com. The email subject line should read “Music Director Application.” Applications should contain either a DVD or links to online videos of conducting in rehearsal and concert environments. DVDs should be mailed to P.O. Box 111, Riverdale, MD 20738. Position Qualifications: The candidate must have proven musical ability and the ability to exercise leadership in developing the artistic quality of the orchestra. The candidate must demonstrate experience in working collaboratively with diverse constituencies, including musicians, administrators and boards. A Master’s degree in Music and/or five years’ conducting experience is required. We desire an individual willing to reside in the Washington-Baltimore area during the concert season. POSITION DESCRIPTION MUSIC DIRECTOR/CONDUCTOR PRINCE GEORGE’S PHILHARMONIC The Music Director/Conductor is responsible for the artistic operation of the orchestra. The Music Director engages soloists, preferably showcasing regional talent. The Director defines musician requirements for specific programs, and works with the Personnel Manager in meeting those requirements. The Music Director holds auditions as necessary to fill musician positions and makes the final decisions on player selection and seating within the orchestra. The Director is also responsible for engaging an Assistant or Associate Conductor. The Music Director works with the Prince George's Philharmonic Board to define the specific vision, goals, and objectives of the Prince George's Philharmonic. The Music Director helps develop, advocate for and participate in activities that promote the Prince George's Philharmonic. In order to carry out this role the Music Director must become a visible and active part of the community, and when appropriate and possible, represents the Prince George's Philharmonic at various civic functions. The Director works to extend interest in classical music in our community and develop programs to enhance involvement in orchestral music. The Director participates in activities to promote concert attendance and may present pre-concert lectures or in-concert comments. The Director is also a participant in our fundraising efforts and is expected to interact with members of the County Council and prospective donors. The Director, in collaboration with the Executive Director, and the Chair of the Board’s finance committee, develops the orchestra’s annual Artistic budget. The Director is an ex officio member of the Board and participates in its monthly meetings. The Director works with the Prince George's Philharmonic Staff, including the Prince George's Philharmonic President, Personnel Manager, Librarian, and Stage Manager in the preparation and staging of concerts. Our orchestra reflects the exceptional diversity that is a defining feature of Prince George’s County. We seek a Director who wishes to work collaboratively with this dedicated group of musicians, educators, and board members to enhance the cultural life of our community.