Conductor, Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra Flute Orchestra
Organization: Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra (BYSO)
Season: September 1, 2026 – August 31, 2027
Location: Bellevue, Washington
Compensation: $15,837.40
Start Date: August 1, 2026
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 eleven instrumental orchestras and ensembles, 3 summer camps, and a robust community outreach program, BYSO serves over 1,200 students annually, fostering their musical talents and growth in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Position Summaries:
BYSO is seeking a talented and dedicated conductor to lead our Flute Orchestra: Flute Orchestra is our advanced flute ensemble. BYSO students placed in Flute Orchestra are often offered rotations into the upper-level orchestras (Youth Symphony and Philharmonia) on a quarterly basis. The typical Flute Orchestra student has had several years of private instruction and substantial ensemble experience and is highly skilled on their instrument.
Flute Orchestra students prepare challenging music encompassing the entire flute family: piccolo, traditional C flute, alto, and bass. Flute Orchestra is a dynamic group where students can develop ensemble and specific flute-related skills in an enjoyable and rewarding setting. Past works performed include Camuglia’s La Danse de la Nuit, De Bosismortier’s Concerto in A for Five Flutes, and Bozza’s Jour d’été à la Montagne. Both positions are part-time, salaried roles with evening and weekend responsibilities.
This position is a part-time salaried role with evening and weekend responsibilities.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Ensemble Leadership:
-
Prepare and rehearse Flute Orchestra during the academic year program.
-
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.
-
Co-conduct the annual Flute Holiday Tour (usually the first Sunday in December) with the Flute Choir conductor.
-
Collaborate with Flute Choir conductor in any programming during which the two flute ensembles are combined.
-
- Administrative and Collaborative Duties:
- Adjudicate auditions as requested.
- Identify students to be offered rotations into the upper orchestras.
- Participate in semi-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 as requested by the Music Director or Executive Director
- 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 seating chart.
- Ensure all students follow BYSO’s student/parent handbook and enforce policies as necessary.
- Substitute and Conflict Management:
- Communicate any potential scheduling conflicts to the Music Director and Operations Manager in advance (when possible) and manage rehearsals accordingly.
- Communicate the rehearsal plan and goals to the assistant conductor whenever the assistant must cover rehearsal.
- 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 or DMA degree preferred).
- Proven experience conducting flute ensembles and youth groups.
- Strong understanding of intermediate-advanced level flute 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 submit a cover letter, resume/Curriculum Vitae, at least two professional references, and conducting footage to:
Matthew Salvaggio
Music Director
Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra
musicdirector@byso.org
Applications will be considered until June 26.
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.
