Description:
NEWCASTLE YOUTH ORCHESTRA - NYO
PRINCIPAL CONDUCTOR/ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Principal Conductor/Artistic Director is responsible for leading the artistic direction and operations of the organisation. In collaboration with the Manager, the Artistic Team and Chairperson of the Board, the Principal Conductor/Artistic Director will work to ensure the viable and exciting future of the orchestra.
The position is a 2 year, part-time/casual contract with a 6 month probation period.
The candidate must be committed to the creation, collaboration and contribution to the cultural life of the community through quality teaching and the promotion of the orchestra vision and mission statement.
Our vision:
To be an inclusive musical community where young people of all backgrounds discover the joy of orchestral music, build lasting friendships through collaborative music-making and develop their musical skills and confidence to bring the joy of orchestral music to our region.
Mission statement:
Newcastle Youth Orchestra offers orchestral programs for young musicians with a focus on promoting a lifelong love of orchestral music and developing musical skills and confidence in a challenging but supportive environment. Our two ensembles, The Newcastle Youth Orchestra and the Newcastle Youth Sinfonia provide performance opportunities for players with varying levels of experience. Players are supported by expert tutors and conductors who are committed to their development.
We aim to break down barriers to engagement with orchestral music, particularly for young audiences. We perform regularly in a range of venues, offering musical experiences that are accessible and inclusive. We collaborate with local artists, cultural and community groups.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Operations
· Lead weekly rehearsals
· Curate and Conduct 4 x orchestral concert events that make up the annual program
· Advocate and speak on behalf of the orchestra at relevant events and media opportunities
· Liaise regularly with the manager, tutors and administrative staff/volunteers
· Attendance at all concerts, events and Board of Directors meetings as required.
· Supervise auditions/entry processes
· Encourage and nurture orchestra members through quality teaching and performance opportunities, promoting the benefits and activities of the orchestra
- Contribute to recruitment and retention of players
Administration
· Regularly consult with the Manager and Artistic Team in the curation and coordination of NYO concerts and events
· Prepare relevant reports as required for Board Meetings
· Contribute to funding applications where artistic vision is required
· Assist in the direction and production of live orchestral performances, overseeing concert logistics in partnership with the Manager
Development and Planning
· Develop orchestral repertoire for a series of public concerts and events for a wide variety of audiences
· Plan for and oversee the production of live NYO orchestral and ensemble performances
· Initiate and support music programs that will challenge and develop the creative talents of emerging musicians
· Liaise with other music industry partners to help develop the local creative industry
· Recommend guest artists and guest conductors as required, subject to Board established budgetary limitations; recruit permanent and supplemental musicians; and determine the nature of rehearsals.
CRITERIA The candidate should demonstrate:
· Leadership and creativity
· Significant musical aptitude and flair expressed through musicianship & conducting
· A proven ability to develop imaginative programming ideas that have significance to the orchestra, the community, and the occasion.
· Have the skills necessary to communicate effectively both in writing and public speaking.
· A proven ability to provide performance experiences of the highest calibre through application of effective baton and rehearsal technique.
· Podium presence to enhance the quality of the orchestra’s performance and support the orchestra’s physical and emotional well-being
· The ability to work with an orchestra’s membership that includes musicians of varying backgrounds and abilities.
· An understanding of their role in a non-for-profit organisation, with a knowledge and appreciation of the roles of the Board, the Chairperson, the musicians, and the volunteers.
· Awareness of the current field of solo artists, orchestral and contemporary music, and performance practices in the local and state area.
· Tertiary education or equivalent industry experience
FEE / SALARY
Fee is calculated pro-rata per term; (based on 10-week school term) plus superannuation
APPLICATIONS
For more information or to email your CV and cover letter to the NYO Board, addressing the selection criteria, please contact capreegaul@gmail.com
Capree Gaul, Director NYO
Applications Close: Sunday 13rd of April, 5pm