About the Opportunity
The Flint School of Performing Arts (FSPA) is looking for a driven, dedicated, and enthusiastic Conductor for its Flint Youth Symphony Orchestra (FYSO). The orchestra, in its 79th season, has a history of collaborative concerts with area high school music programs, sister relationships with youth orchestras in Japan, France, Germany, and Italy, and biennial international concert tours. Under the direction of the FIM Vice-President of Performing Arts Instruction, the FYSO Conductor will lead the artistic development of the ensemble, honor and maintain its traditions while creating exciting new ones.

Responsibilities
• Conduct the ensemble at all rehearsals, string sectionals and performances. If absent, arrange for a qualified substitute per school policy.
• Consult with the VP-Performing Arts Instruction to set the annual rehearsal, performance, and special events calendar.
• Consult with the VP-Performing Arts Instruction to confirm budget.
• Organize music and attendance records.
• Follow “FSPA Ensemble Concerts Conductor Checklist” and timeline.
• Maintain the FYSO bulletin board and update it three times or more each season.
• Assist in the student auditioning process as needed.
• Maintain knowledge of representative repertoire and, with significant FYSO musician input, select suitable music.
• Complete bowings and fingerings for all music designated for strings before the first rehearsal.
• Create simplified parts when needed or engage someone to do this.
• Create transposed/re-written parts for instruments (i.e. alto sax, harp) when not included in the score or engage someone to do this.
• Provide audio/video links to music to assist students with home practice.
• Teach stage presence and performance etiquette.
• Engage additional qualified individuals needed to assist in training ensemble members.
• Organize 16 Tuesday 6:15-7:15PM sectionals (minimum string, winds/brass/percussion – smaller sections when possible). Hire coaches. Prepare sectional plan and pre-email to coaches.
• Prepare and rehearse the Showcase Concert massed ensemble piece. Attend finale rehearsal. Assist backstage throughout the concert.
• Arrange for video and/or audio recording of performances as needed.
• Maintain an effective rapport with students and their families.
• Attend Beyond Boundaries Seminar. Incorporate the teaching approach in rehearsals/concerts as possible.
• Provide a positive learning environment.
• Represent the School to students, families and the community positively.
• Carry out public relations activities on behalf of the ensemble.
• Develop and execute recruitment program annually.
• Maintain a close liaison with public and private school directors and faculty colleagues.
• Assist FSPA Program Coordinator in partnering with area music teachers to share the December and March concerts.
• Cooperate with department chairs, administration and staff.
• Maintain current sister youth orchestra relationships and develop new ones.
• Lead organization of international tour every other year. Lead organization of International Youth Music Festivals at FSPA every other year.
• Attend fall faculty meeting.
• Additional responsibilities as needed.

Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in music education, orchestral conducting, or music performance, minimum
• Five years plus experience conducting large youth music ensembles
• Strong Interpersonal skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work with a range of ages, skill levels, and a diverse student pool
• Ability to work with diverse internal and external groups, from staff to parents/families to the public
• Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines

Compensation and Benefits:
• Competitive Pay
• Employee Discounts
• Non-exempt
• 401k Eligible
• Rate: $39 per hour, active months August through May – approximately 320 hours per year.

To apply, please submit your cover letter and resume (both required) to jjaksa@thefim.org. Should you have any questions, please get in touch with Jane Jaksa, HR Generalist, at 810-238-1350 x3129.

*The Flint Institute of Music is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.