Assistant Conductor (CSO) / Music Director (CSYO)

The Columbus Symphony has served as central Ohio’s flagship music organization since 1951. Our musicians, conductors, chorus, and world-renowned guest artists enrich the central Ohio community through extraordinary talent, passion, dedication, and the highest standards of musicianship. Guided by the artistic vision of Music Director Rossen Milanov, the Columbus Symphony offers four programming “brands” – Masterworks, Pops, Picnic with the Pops, and Education/Community Engagement – that are targeted to appeal to diverse audiences from throughout central Ohio. This segmented approach, innovative within the American orchestra industry, is helping the Columbus Symphony to reach new, younger, and more diverse audiences.

The Columbus Symphony invites applications from qualified individuals for the position of Assistant Conductor of the Columbus Symphony and Music Director of the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestra. The Assistant Conductor is a crucial position in the artistic staff of the Columbus Symphony. Primarily responsible for leading the top ensemble of the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras, the position also entails covering subscription concerts and conducting educational programming.

Primary Function

As a full-time members of the Columbus Symphony (CSO) staff, the primary functions of the Assistant Conductor of the CSO are to serve the cover conducting role for Masterworks Concerts and to conduct education programs or other types of programs as assigned by the organization. The primary functions of the Music Director of the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestra (CSYO) are to program and conduct concerts and rehearsals with the CSYO.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Works closely with leadership team and education department to develop a comprehensive plan that expands and enhances the educational offerings of the Columbus Symphony in alignment with the strategic plan and mission of the company.

• Maintains relationships with community educational leaders and youth organizations; Utilizes these relationships to maximize program outreach and distribute information about programs to target audiences.

• Available for marketing and promotional activities for the CSO and CSYO.

• Performs other duties as assigned that support the operations of the CSO and CSYO

Columbus Symphony Responsibilities

• Serves as cover conductor for Masterworks and Pops rehearsals and concerts.

• Conducts and assists in programming educational programs, including, but not limited to: In-School concerts and Young People’s concerts.

• Conducts and assists in programming family programs, including, but not limited to: Family Concerts and Popcorn Pops concerts.

• Conducts other community or run-out concerts as assigned.

• Abides by the terms and conditions of the CSO Master Agreement that pertain to their services as Assistant Conductor, including, but not limited to: deadlines for rehearsal orders, etc.

Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestra Responsibilities

• Conducts all rehearsals and concerts for the CSYO.

• Organizes and participates in the audition process for the ensemble.

• Sets the artistic direction and programming for the ensemble.

• Sets the educational goals for the ensemble.

• Works within budgetary guidelines.

• Advises contracted conductors of other youth orchestras in the CSYO system.

• Serves as a community ambassador for the Columbus Symphony Youth Orchestras

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of orchestral repertoire and traditions.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Ability to collaborate with staff and other partners.

• Ability to meet deadlines and work within available budget.

• Working knowledge of risk management issues.

Credentials and Experience

• Masters Degree or Artist Diploma in Orchestral or Instrumental Conducting.

• Experience conducting professional musicians.

• Experience working with youth ensembles.

Special Requirements

This position will require a satisfactory background check; the CSO will determine the level of background check required based upon current industry standards for individuals working with youth.

To apply, please submit:

• Personal Statement

• Resume/CV

• Three references

• Video of applicant conducting contrasting works (via streaming link)

Deadline: June 3, 2024

Submit materials and inquiries to kbrown@columbussymphony.com.

Finalists will be selected to audition in-person in Columbus with the orchestra on July 19, 2024