What are the responsibilities and job description for the Gaithersburg Chorus - Choral Director position at City of Gaithersburg Cultural Events & Services?
Job Description: Gaithersburg Chorus - Choral Director
The Gaithersburg Chorus, a non-audition, city-sponsored adult chorus, seeks an experienced and enthusiastic Choral Director. Responsibilities include selecting a varied repertoire (including classical, standards, Broadway show tunes, and more) within the guidelines set by the Cultural Events & Services Division of the City of Gaithersburg. The Choral Director will conduct weekly rehearsals (7:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Gaithersburg’s Activity Center at Bohrer Park located at 506 S. Frederick Avenue), choose section leaders and soloists through an audition process, and oversee the accompanist and the artistic and musical affairs of the chorus.
The year is divided into two sessions: late August through December and January through late May, with two live concerts scheduled at the end of each session in December and May (venues vary). Member registration and administration are managed by the City of Gaithersburg, with the Choral Director working closely with the Program Coordinator, Supervisor, and the City’s Arts Administrator, Additionally, the Choral Director may be asked to lead up to two extra Chorus performances for each session for events such as the Jingle Jubilee, Kentlands Tree Lighting, and other community concerts.
Founded in 1987, Gaithersburg Chorus has many members with multi-year commitments to the group. When asked about their priorities, members indicated a desire for challenging repertoire and ongoing opportunities to grow as musicians. The chorus seeks a Choral Director who possesses excellent musicianship, the ability to teach vocal skills, and a positive, patient, and even-tempered approach, respecting singers of all levels of expertise. The ideal candidate will have a good sense of humor, manage rehearsal time efficiently, and enjoy working across various musical genres.
Position Details: This is an independent contractor position with an annual compensation ranging from $5,500 to $6,000, depending on experience. Payment will be made in two equal installments: one in late December for the fall session (August to December) and one in late May for the spring session (January to May). In the event the chorus and director participate in additional services, such as extra rehearsals, performances, or pre-recorded presentations, the contractor will be compensated at a rate of $250 per extra rehearsal, performance, or presentation, with a maximum of two additional services per session.
Key Responsibilities:
- Repertoire Selection: The Chorus Director will select music for all concert performances, ensuring a varied and engaging program that aligns with the cultural arts guidelines set by the City.
- Solo and Small Ensemble Selection: The Chorus Director will identify anticipated concert repertoire, including solo opportunities, in a timely manner. Solos, duets, trios, and small ensembles will be selected through a fair audition process, which must be held no later than three weeks prior to a performance. Auditions will take place outside normal rehearsal hours and must be scheduled at the discretion of the Choral Director, in consultation with the Chorus Accompanist, subject to availability.
- Rehearsal Leadership: The Choral Director will conduct weekly rehearsals (Tuesdays from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.). In the event of the director’s absence, a substitute may be provided (e.g., the accompanist). Additional sectionals or extended rehearsals may be scheduled, depending on availability of facilities.
- Vocal Instruction: The Choral Director will provide instruction on music notation, sight-reading, and proper singing technique during rehearsals.
- Soloist Selection: The Choral Director will ensure that soloists are selected through an audition process. When no suitable auditioning member is available for a solo role, the Director may select guest soloists from the Chorus, in consultation with the accompanist, at no additional cost to the City.
- Engagement of Guest Musicians: In consultation with the Chorus Program Coordinator, if additional funds are available, the Choral Director is encouraged to engage guest musicians or singers for performances.
- Performance and Presentation: The Choral Director will lead the Chorus in up to two live in-person concerts per session. (Minimum of 4 total concerts annually.)
- Community Outreach: As part of a community-focused organization, in consultation with the Chorus Program Coordinator, the Choral Director is encouraged to offer additional community performances and rehearsals, which would be considered “Additional Services” if available.
- Post-Concert Evaluation: The Choral Director will participate in a post-concert evaluation within two weeks of each concert, working with the Chorus Accompanist and any interested members. A report will be provided to the Arts Administrator following this evaluation.
Application Requirements:
Interested candidates should submit the following materials for consideration:
- A current resume detailing relevant experience and qualifications.
- A letter of interest explaining your suitability for the position and how your skills align with the job requirements.
- Three professional references, including names, contact information, and their relationship to you.
Ensure all materials are submitted to jamie.kumpfkendrick@gaithersburgmd.gov by April 17, 2025.
Job Type: Contract
Pay: $5,500.00 - $6,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
Salary : $5,500 - $6,000
