Conductors for Intermezzo and Overture Orchestras

Job Description: Conductors for Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra – Intermezzo and Overture Orchestras

Positions Available:

1. Conductor for “Intermezzo” String Ensemble
2. Conductor for “Overture” Ensemble (mixed strings and winds)

Organization: Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra (BYSO)
Season: September 1, 2024 – August 31, 2025
Location: Bellevue, Washington
Compensation: $13,000 – $15,000 annually, commensurate with experience. This is a salaried, part-time position.

Organization Overview

Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra (BYSO) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in Bellevue, Washington, established to provide a unique and stimulating musical environment for Eastside youth seeking to advance their potential beyond traditional in-school programs. BYSO has been serving students in elementary through high school since 1964. BYSO is a thriving, fiscally stable organization with a dedicated Board poised to further its Mission:

To enhance the lives of student musicians by providing dynamic musical experiences, fostering collaboration, confidence, and personal responsibility through the pursuit of artistic excellence.

With nine instrumental orchestras and ensembles, BYSO serves over 700 students annually, fostering their musical talents and growth in a supportive and inspiring environment. For the second season in a row, BYSO has seen unprecedented interest in its programming and is expanding its instrumental offerings in the 2024-2025 season to include these two new ensembles.

Position Summaries:

BYSO is seeking two talented and dedicated conductors for the 2024-2025 season:

1. Conductor for “Intermezzo” String Orchestra: This ensemble is an intermediate entry-level ensemble for strings. This ensemble is designed for progressing students who have 2-3 years of experience on their instrument and some prior orchestra experience.
2. Conductor for “Overture” Orchestra: This ensemble is an intermediate level ensemble of mixed strings and winds. Instrumentation can vary based on enrollment. The typical Overture student has had some private instruction and school ensemble experience and is working to improve technique and ensemble skills.

Both positions are part-time, salaried roles with evening and weekend responsibilities.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Ensemble Leadership:
  • Prepare and rehearse your assigned orchestra (“Intermezzo” or “Overture”) throughout the season.
  • Conduct rehearsals and performances, ensuring a high standard of musical excellence and student engagement.
  • Provide clear and constructive feedback to students and encourage their growth.
• Administrative and Collaborative Duties:
  • Adjudicate auditions as requested.
  • Participate in annual performance reviews with the Music Director.
  • Attend quarterly staff meetings and additional meetings as called by the Music Director, Executive Director, or Board of Directors.
  • Represent BYSO in up to 3 events or appearances during the year, such as fundraisers, parents’ meetings, or community concerts.
• Rehearsal and Performance Management:
  • Arrive at rehearsal/concert sites at least 15 minutes early and adhere to scheduled start and end times.
  • Submit all required materials on time, including rehearsal requests, music selections, and program notes.
  • Ensure all students follow BYSO’s student/parent handbook and enforce policies as necessary.
• Substitute and Conflict Management:
  • Provide a list of recommended substitute conductors and arrange for a substitute in case of illness or other absences.
  • Communicate any potential scheduling conflicts to the Music Director in advance and manage rehearsals accordingly.
• Student Supervision and Conduct:
  • Remain on-site until all students are safely under adult supervision or have left the premises.
  • Maintain a professional and respectful demeanor at all times and ensure a positive learning environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, Music Performance, Conducting, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Proven experience conducting youth orchestras or string ensembles.
• Strong understanding of beginning-intermediate level instrumental repertoire and pedagogical techniques.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to articulate ideas clearly and concisely in both written and oral format, and ability to build and maintain relationships.
• Commitment to Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra’s mission and values.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, students, and parents.
• Flexibility, transparency, and openness.
• Proactive attitude and friendly demeanor.
• Technical proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Must be able to pass a Washington State background check.

Application Process

Interested candidates should specify their preferred position (“Intermezzo” or “Overture”) in their application and submit a cover letter, resume/Curriculum Vitae, and at least two professional references to:

Matthew Salvaggio
Music Director
Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra
musicdirector@byso.org

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.

Additional Information:

• For more information about BYSO and our programs, please visit www.byso.org.

BYSO is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. We look forward to finding passionate and dedicated conductors to join our team and inspire the next generation of young musicians.