Conductor of Philharmonic Orchestra

Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras

Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras seeks an energetic and talented educator/conductor to lead its Philharmonic Orchestra. Candidates must be passionate about engaging students ranging in age from 7th-10th grade in the joy of learning repertoire from a variety of genres and composers. Applicants from backgrounds historically under-represented in classical music are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Philharmonic Orchestra conductor works closely with the Music Director to develop: 

– Programs that will challenge our students to grow musically and allow them to achieve their goals

– Extra performance opportunities

– Commissions and community collaborations

Responsibilities:

– Conduct weekly Saturday morning rehearsals (occasionally Sundays) from September through the middle of May

– Communicate with coaches and establish effective rehearsal plans

– Assist with auditions in June and the end of August

– Attend staff meetings & professional development workshops

– Attend BOD meetings

– Communicate with parents

– Communicate with the Music Director

– Communicate with the Executive Director

– Bi-weekly meetings with the Music Director

– Conduct 3 or more concerts per year 

Candidates with the right combination of experience and skills may also be considered for the position of Assistant Music Director.

The Assistant Music Director works closely with the Music Director and will be responsible for the following areas:

– Collaborate with students as advisor of the Student Leadership Committee. Host monthly meetings with students after rehearsals or on Zoom. Hear concerns, plan activities, and complete projects.  

– Serve as the representative of student voice to the Board of Directors

– Assist with recruiting and community engagement

– Assist with the planning and implementation of Teaching Artist Retreats (Summer)

– Be ready and willing to step in and conduct Principal Orchestra if the Music Director is absent from rehearsals or performances. 

– Assistant Music Director stipend: $2,500

Requirements

– Orchestral conducting experience and knowledge of orchestral repertoire

– A history of programming for this age group and excellence in youth musical development

– A bachelor’s degree in Music or Music Education is required. Preference given to those with an advanced degree in Orchestral Conducting. 

– Ability to establish the highest standards of music performance, while being supportive, understanding, and approachable 

– A demonstrated appreciation for and understanding of the needs of high-performing students 

– Demonstrated track record of establishing and maintaining an open, inclusive, and safe rehearsal environment for students.

Location: Fairfield, Connecticut

Type: Part Time

Salary: $10,000-$12,500

Salary Details:

Three finalists will be selected to conduct one music cycle, ending with one concert, during the ’24-’25 season. An announcement of the final decision will be made at the end of May 2025 with a start date of July 1st, 2025. A stipend will be paid to each finalist. Annual salary begins with 2025-26 season.

Required Education:

About Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras

Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras (GCTYO) brings young musicians together to achieve the highest standard of music performance in a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment. Our holistic approach to education fosters growth, learning, confidence, and both social and emotional awareness, which prepares students for a full and balanced life. The study and performance of great music in an ensemble setting can be a transformative experience for young musicians, and the skills they learn as part of a GCTYO ensemble—teamwork, perseverance and responsibility—carry over into all areas of their lives. GCTYO instructors are both professional musicians and music educators who are tuned in to educational best practices and child development. They bring out the best in each student by challenging them to work hard as individuals and members of a group. Musicians feel engaged by the process and supported by their conductors and peers. The result is a positive, exciting learning experience with clear, measurable musical and social progress through the years. GCTYO strives for diversity and inclusivity in an environment that is both fun and musically challenging. Through rehearsals and formal performances, young musicians gain valuable experience and an important sense of achievement and self-confidence while fostering lifelong friendships and a love of music. Rehearsals are held in Fairfield and at least three performances each season are given at The Klein in Bridgeport. Additional concerts may be held at other venues. GCTYO maintains a robust financial assistance program so that all students who want to can participate. GCTYO Principal Orchestra musicians are able to play full-length concert programs of classical music. Most students do not have access to this level of music in their school orchestras or even other youth orchestras. GCTYO is ahead of the curve in challenging its advanced students to perform difficult music usually reserved for college or professional orchestras. Musicians take great pride in their performances and feel good about bringing music to the community. Watch and listen to a concert here. [https://vimeo.com/499019318] GCTYO is committed to advancing equity in its program through a wider range of musical programming, increasing the diversity of its staff and board, and being sensitive and responding to the needs of our students.