Artistic Director for Orange County Catholic Chorale

Postion: The Orange County Catholic chorale (a 501(c)(3) non-profit performing arts organization) is seeking an Artistic Director to conduct the masterworks choir of approximately 60 auditioned singers.  This position is primarily part time with a stipend and requires weekly 2-hour rehearsals beginning in January through early July.  The Artistic Director will provide an on-going program for the Orange County Catholic Chorale which includes the development, recruitment, and vision for the organization.  The Director will plan and conduct all rehearsals and performances.  The Director reports to the Board of Directors and works in conjuntion and coordination with the Board to support the mission statement.

Mission Statement: The Orange County Catholic Chorale porivdes an accessible and professional classical music experience for residents of Southern California.  Our mission is to expand the musical talents of our singers by providing them with an outlet to perform exceptional musical literature, and to challenge and support gifted composers with the ultimate goal of providing quality peformances that enrich the educational and cultural life of the community.

Concert Season:

The Chorale's concert season includes three events:

     - Themed fundraiser (Winter)
     - Masterworks concert with orchestra (Spring)
     - Patriotic Concert (July)

Qualifications:

Applications with a Master's of Music degree from a accredite program or a Bachleor's of Music degree with 4 years of choral conducting are the minimum requirements for the position.  Additional experience desired in:

     - Conducting symphonic-choral works
     - Keyboard proficiency
     - Budgeting
     - Strategic planning
     - Organizational skills

Job Description Summary:

1. Plan, prepare and direct the content and performance or all concerts and other musical presentations of the Chorale, devising effective reheasrsal techniques, expanding musical knowledge, improving vocal production and helping to maintain a high level of morale amoung the members of the Chorale.

2. Select choral music appriopriate to the capabilities of the chorale.  Prepare scores for the chorus, orchestra, and guest soloists as necessary.

3. Audition new and former embers within balanced sections of the Chorale.  Audition and select accompanist, soloists and any other musicians related to the production of musical presentations of the Chorale.

4. Assist in recruiting activities as necesary.

5. Help to create and develop secure donor base by promoting and soliciting possible contributors as sponsors to the concert series.  Create a donor list which will appraise all patrons with upcoming concerts and events.  Write thank you letters for all contributions and develop the "Patron of the Arts" list for concert programs.

6. Provide required information for rehearsal agendas, fliers and concert notices.

7. Set rehearsal times and locations and standards of conduct during rehearsals and control of functions at the dress rehearsals.

8. Provide for a substitute Director in the event of illness or other absence.

9. Have final say on the performance status of a Chorale member.

10. Prepare program notes for use in the concert programs.

11. Act as committee chairperson for the Magnum Opus Choral Composition Competition to review, evaluate and select a winning entry.

12. Work closely with the Board of Directors in achieving goals for the Chorale.  Devlop an annual comprehensive artistic plan that, once approved by the Board, provides the basis for the annual budget.  Attend all board meetings.

Application Procedure:

     - Letter of application
     - Curriculum vitae
     - Sample listing of repertoire conducted
     - Sample recording of previous programs recorded (CD or DVD), if available
     - Any other item(s) you believe may support your application, such as original compositions or arrangements you have created or composed, etc.

In Late November/early December, finalist candidates will meet with Chorale members for a 45 minute interview/choral conducting assessment to demonstrate warm up techniques and keyboard expertise, conduct a piece that the Chorale knows (music to be provided in advance), and teach the Chorale a SATB selection, movement, or portion thereof, of the candidate's choosing.

Application Deadline: November 4, 2009

Mailing Address:

Orange County Catholic Chorale, Inc.
Search Committee
18685-A Main Street, #350
Huntington Beach, CA  92648

Additional information about OCCC is available at www.OCCatholicChorale.org and questions or access to samples of our recordings may be addressed to the search committee chair at: info@OCCatholicChorale.org.