About This Role
This Artistic Director role involves leading the Vanguard Voices chorus, including repertoire selection, conducting weekly rehearsals, and auditioning new members. The position suits an experienced choral conductor with strong musical and leadership skills, working closely with the Board of Directors to plan and execute concerts.
Responsibilities
- Choose the repertoire in conjunction with the Board
- Run weekly rehearsals for up to 3 hours on Thursdays
- Audition new members for the chorus
- Conduct Vanguard Voices
- Work closely with the Vanguard Voices Board of Directors in selecting appropriate music of a challenging nature
- Serve on the Board and attend board meetings ex officio
- Plan and execute all concerts in conjunction with the Board
- Create or find practice recordings to assist in the learning of the music
- Discuss any travel opportunities
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Choral Conducting, Vocal Performance, Music Education, or related field
- Demonstrated experience conducting advanced SATB choral ensembles
- Strong knowledge of choral pedagogy, vocal technique, diction, blend, and ensemble musicianship
- Proven ability to rehearse efficiently and achieve high artistic standards
- Experience programming diverse repertoire spanning classical, contemporary, multicultural, and commissioned works
- Excellent score study and conducting skills
- Experience auditioning and evaluating singers
- Ability to inspire singers while maintaining musical excellence
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills
- Experience collaborating with accompanists, section leaders, instrumentalists, and guest artists
Nice to have:
- Graduate degree in choral conducting or related discipline
- Experience leading community or semi-professional auditioned choirs
- Familiarity with festival preparation, touring, recordings, or competition performance
- Strong piano proficiency sufficient for rehearsal leadership
- Demonstrated commitment to inclusive and diverse programming
- Experience with fundraising collaboration, audience development, or community outreach
- Knowledge of healthy vocal production across adult voice types
- Experience commissioning or premiering new choral works
- Ability to recruit and retain high-level singers
Important Details
- Schedule: approximately 140 hours per year, not including music preparation and selection
- Contract: independent contracted employee by the City of Dearborn Parks and Recreation Department