Instrumental Music Director (Floretta P. Carson Philharmonic Youth Orchestra)

Position Description:
The Floretta P. Carson Philharmonic Youth Orchestra is seeking a talented and driven Instrumental Music Director to lead our dedicated group of musicians and be a key contributor to the orchestra’s community outreach and fundraising.

A key leader in the organization, the Music Director serves as the Instrumental Music Director of Floretta P. Carson Visual and Performing Arts Academy, providing artistic leadership and shaping the orchestra’s musical direction, repertoire selection, and season programming. This position offers a unique opportunity for a highly skilled conductor/instructor to teach and lead young musicians and create memorable musical events in Mobile, AL and surrounding areas.

Key Responsibilities

Artistic Leadership

• Develop and execute a vision for the orchestra’s growth and excellence, working collaboratively with the Arts Director and Superintendent to achieve these goals.
• Shape the orchestra’s musical direction, repertoire selection, and programming for the season that lasts 5 to 6 full concert cycles and additional auxiliary events.
• Attend and contribute to monthly Board meetings.

Conducting

• Conduct rehearsals and performances with precision, enthusiasm, and interpretive insight.
• Maintain high standards of performance and inspire the orchestra to reach its full potential.

Teaching

• Teach classes throughout the school day within area of expertise – strings, brass, woodwind, and percussion. Create a classroom environment where students are able to grow musically.

Repertoire Selection

• Curate a diverse and engaging repertoire that reflects the orchestra’s mission, appeals to a broad audience, and brings to life composers that encompass the spirit of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Ensure that programming is appropriate for the orchestra’s skills and showcases the talents of the orchestra’s musicians.

Collaboration

• Select and work with soloists, guest conductors, guest clinicians, and composers to create exceptional and unique musical experiences.
• Foster strong relationships with musicians and staff to build a harmonious working environment.

Educational and Outreach Initiatives

• Develop and lead educational and outreach programs to engage with the community, schools, and underserved populations.
• Promote a deep appreciation of classical music and the orchestra’s role in the community.
• Help source musical collaborations with local musical or non-musical organizations to increase access to additional audiences and enrich our musician’s musical depth.

Auditions and Recruitment

• Conduct bi-annual auditions to recruit new musicians and ensure the highest level of performance.

Budget Management

• Ensure high levels of communication and engagement with the administrative team on the musical needs and costs of each concert program so that the orchestra effectively meets its programming budget and effectively allocates its financial resources.