Description

Hello! After 14 wonderful seasons under the baton of Dr. Ryan James Brandau, Monmouth Civic Chorus is seeking our next Artistic Director.

Position Description: Artistic Director, Monmouth Civic Chorus
 
I. Overview

The Artistic Director of Monmouth Civic Chorus (MCC) is the principal authority on all artistic matters regarding activities of the chorus. They are engaged as an independent contractor, serve as a non-voting member of the  Board, and are an ex officio member of the Music and Production Committees. The term of the Artistic Director’s contract is our fiscal year, July 1st through June 30th, and renews annually.

The Artistic Director’s responsibilities are focused on artistic leadership: repertoire selection, rehearsals, performances, and the musical growth of the chorus and its members. Administrative and operational duties such as marketing, fundraising, logistics, concert production, and volunteer coordination are handled by the Board of Trustees and volunteers. This affords the Artistic Director the time, space, and focus to concentrate fully on guiding the artistic vision and musical excellence of the chorus. 

Requirements

II. Responsibilities

Maintain and fortify MCC’s reputation for high artistic excellence

• Provide clear, strong musical leadership through every rehearsal and performance
• Develop and expand the musical fluency and repertoire of the chorus and its individual members
• Cultivate excellence, commitment and rigor among all individuals and sections as musicians

Design, coordinate, and oversee MCC’s season, including all rehearsals and concert performances

• Conduct weekly rehearsals of the chorus, which take place on Wednesdays from 7:00–9:30 p.m. in Tinton Falls, NJ
• Plan, organize, prepare, and present 3–4 major concerts each season (September–June), with orchestra, organ, and/or piano
• Plan, organize, and run one dress rehearsal prior to each major concert and occasional extra rehearsals as needed
• Conduct all concert performances of the chorus
• Select appropriate concert repertoire in consultation with the Music Chairperson and Music Committee
• Audition, select, and prepare soloists as needed for each concert
• Select and oversee orchestra members, chorus section leaders, rehearsal accompanists, and performance accompanists in consultation with the Music
• Chairperson, the Board or the President as appropriate
• Work with orchestra contractors and stage managers as required for each concert

Ensure the continued musical growth of the ensemble and support the vocal and artistic development of individual members

• Audition prospective new members of the chorus in conjunction with the Membership and Music Committees
• Provide individual or small group coaching as needed
• Provide opportunities for member solo performances at Artistic Director’s discretion

Cultivate and maintain a strong, collaborative relationship with the Board of Trustees

• Report to the Board of Trustees (as a non-voting member) and collaborate with the Music Committee on key artistic decisions
• Collaborate with the Treasurer and Music Committee to prepare detailed budgets for proposed performances
• Attend monthly Board meetings, in-person or virtually, as a non-voting member

Balance and build the chorus’ high-level artistry with its strong sense of community

• Foster an environment of respect, camaraderie, and community
• Motivate and nurture both a standard of musical excellence and a sense of fun among individuals, sections, and the chorus as a whole
• Participate, as appropriate, in community outreach and/or smaller programs and performances, such as benefit concerts and other artistic fundraising events
• Collaborate with section leaders to support musical cohesion, address sectional needs, and reinforce rehearsal goals
• Audition and select, in conjunction with the Board, recipients of MCC’s scholarship for vocally talented high school seniors
   
  III. Traits & Competencies

The Artistic Director should demonstrate:

• Musical Expertise: Deep knowledge of choral repertoire, vocal technique, and conducting skills
• Leadership: Ability to inspire, motivate, and guide a diverse group of singers
• Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with the Music Committee, Board, soloists, accompanists, and volunteers
• Communication: Clear and professional verbal and written communication skills
• Mentorship: Dedication to supporting the musical growth of individual chorus members
• Organization: Strong planning and time-management skills to coordinate rehearsals, performances, and auditions
• Adaptability: Ability to respond flexibly to the evolving needs of the chorus while maintaining artistic standards
• Positive Presence: Foster an inclusive, respectful, and supportive rehearsal and performance environment