Assistant Conductor

The Assistant Conductor works with Music Director, Malcolm J. Merriweather, to serve the artistic needs of the Dessoff Choirs. They will attend all rehearsals and assist in the preparation for 4-6 annual engagements/concerts and serve as the understudy for the Music Director. When not leading rehearsals or sectionals the Assistant Conductor sings in the choir. The Assistant Conductor position is a renewable position (up to two years) with the opportunity to gain experience as a conductor and leader of a musical organization.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES:

• Attend and evaluate auditions with the Music Director.

• Attend all rehearsals (Mondays from 7-10pm on the Upper West Side and extra Saturday rehearsals), concerts, and soloist coaching sessions. Provide feedback to Music Director and guidance to members as needed.

• Lead warm-up exercises and vocalizes for the choir.

• Lead sectional rehearsals.

• The Assistant Conductor should be prepared to lead The Dessoff Choirs in rehearsal or performance in the event of the Music Director’s incapacitation.

• Prepare to lead full rehearsals in the absence of the Music Director, as requested.

• Assist with recruitment new members for the choir.

• Provide mentorship for member(s) of the Singing Scholars program.

• Sing with the choir in concert and in rehearsal.

• Assist with operational aspects of the choir (rehearsal set up, music distribution)

QUALIFICATIONS:

The ideal candidate is an aspiring conductor either studying conducting in graduate school or recent graduate looking to gain more experience as a conductor.

• 3 years of conducting experience.

• Experience working with singers and choirs.

• Proficiency at the keyboard required (intermediate)

• Undergraduate degree required